The exhibition aims to present Slovenian archaeology through three specific object genres. Firstly, archaeological objects associated with sound and music (either musical instruments – from prehistoric flutes made of cave-bear bones, to ancient double flutes, and medieval Jew's harp – or rattles that were used in rituals or as children's toys). The second group are symbolic objects (i.e., prehistoric figures that are probably representations of deities unknown to us, small statues of ancient gods, objects with engraved astral symbols, animal-shaped figures, miniature objects and picture supports with engraved figures that tell a story like a comic book). The third genre of exhibits are archaeological objects bearing the earliest inscriptions (including examples of Venetian writing on the fragment of a bronze situla and a silver plate, inscriptions with the names of local deities, an ancient miniature book and graffiti).

All these objects, with their sounds, symbols or inscriptions, provide an insight into that slightly deeper dimension of our ancestors’ spirituality, amusement and ways of explaining the world. They show the human need for expressing something abstract, for creating the symbolic and for permanently recording stories, vows and even taboo words.

The exhibition was launched in autumn 2023 as part of the events accompanying the Frankfurt Book Fair and the Guest of Honor Slovenia. It won the Valvasor Medal (“Valvasorjev nagelj”) and the Archaeological Society of Slovenia's Recognition Award.

The exhibition will make its Slovenian premiere at the Cankarjev dom Gallery, accompanied by an in-depth and varied educational programme for school groups.

In cooperation with: National Museum of Slovenia
Partners: Celje Regional Museum, Pomurje Museum Murska Sobota, Ptuj Ormož Regional Museum, Museum and Galleries of Ljubljana, Dolenjska Museum Novo mesto, Koper Regional Museum, Gorenjska Museum Kranj, Goriška Regional Museum Nova Gorica, Tolmin Museum