Soča River in Slovenia: Pure Beauty
Soča (pronounced as "socha") River, also known as the Isonzo, is one of the most picturesque watercourses flowing through Slovenia. Its length is about 138 kilometers and it originates on the slope of the Julian Alps. Soča is known for the unique landscapes of the Alpine valleys, crystal clear water and many natural and man-made attractions located along its course.
The source of Soča is a karst spring in the lower part of the slope of the Velika Dnina, several tens of meters above the bottom of the Zadnja Trenta valley, at an altitude of 990 m. In spring and summer, the uppermost part of Soča is a beautiful alpine stream that flows past Kochi at the source of Soča through small waterfalls to the valley floor where it is first joined by a tributary of the Zadnja Trenta.
In ancient times, Soča was known by different names: Ezontius, Zontius, Ezontio, but most often under the name Izontius. It is possible that its original Slavic name was Sotya and came from the Latin name Sontiy, which probably comes from the Indo-European word "heis" - to move quickly, to rush. Another possible explanation is that the name comes from the pre-Roman word "aĭs" - water, river.
At the same time, it is known as "Isonzo" in Italian, and this name is associated with historical and ethnic aspects. After World War I, the border between Italy and the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes followed the river, leading to the double name.
Between 1915 and 1917, the Soča Front ran along the Soča Valley and its surrounding mountains, claiming the lives of over 300,000 Italian and Austro-Hungarian soldiers. Many of them were Slovenes and representatives of other Slavic peoples. The front ran all the way from Rombone to the Gulf of Trieste, and left behind many war cemeteries, fortified positions and other remains along which the memorial Peace Trail from the Alps to the Adriatic runs. The Kobari Museum in Kobarid is also dedicated to the war. As a result of the war, the local population also suffered greatly, since all residents from the vicinity of the front were resettled to other places, but when they returned, their houses were mostly destroyed.
There are many attractions along the shores of Soča. Magnificent mountain views, picturesque villages and ancient castles make this region attractive to tourists. Perhaps the most famous site is the town of Kobarid, home to the First World War Museum, which tells the history of the region and the events of that time.
Tourists can also enjoy an active holiday by rafting or kayaking on the Soča River. Its fast currents and beautiful scenery make this region a great destination for adventure and nature lovers.