Tech and Tales is a temporary exhibition developed by the Technical Museum of Slovenia to mark Slovenia’s role as Guest of Honour at the 2024 Bologna Children’s Book Fair. It is presented at the museum’s main location in Bistra near Vrhnika (opened on 16 October 2025) and at the Museum of Post and Telecommunications in Polhov Gradec (opened on 4 December 2025). The exhibition brings together two seemingly unrelated worlds – technical heritage and Slovenian children’s and youth literature.

Nearly 50 literary works – from timeless Slovene classics to contemporary authors – are interwoven with the museum’s rich collections. Through engaging stories, tactile objects, and sound installations, visitors explore tools, machines, professions, and crafts, while reflecting on how science and technology shape our everyday lives and imaginations.

In Bistra, a symbolic fairy tale road leads through five thematic sections where visitors can meet the literary character Kekec, ride a Rog bicycle, or sit in the legendary red fičo car. In Polhov Gradec, the focus shifts to communication – from handwritten letters and postage stamps featuring children’s book characters to SMS poetry.

Have you ever wondered what dragons, kings, and princesses are doing in a technical museum? These are just some of the poetic names of objects preserved in the museum’s collections.

A rich accompanying programme includes guided tours, creative workshops, storytelling sessions, and themed activities for all age groups. Special attention is dedicated to vulnerable groups, with adapted content and formats that ensure inclusive participation. The exhibition also encourages reflection on the future, including creative writing supported by artificial intelligence.

Tech and Tales inspires curiosity, creativity, and a love for stories, science, and cultural heritage across generations.