Commitment to Godparenting
Lipica, 12.9.2024 — Today, a solemn event took place at the Lipica Stud Farm, where Dr. Damjan Kukovec and Ms. Špela Spanžel committed to becoming godparents to Lipizzan foals born in 2024. By taking on this role today, they have joined numerous individuals who support the preservation and development of the Lipizzaners, one of the oldest and noblest horse breeds in the world.
Supporting Slovenia’s Cultural Heritage
Godparenting Lipizzan foals is a special way to contribute to the preservation of the rich cultural heritage represented by the breeding of Lipizzaners in Slovenia. Dr. Damjan Kukovec, a renowned lawyer, judge at the General Court of the European Union, and professor who lectures at numerous prestigious universities, including Harvard, where he also obtained his Ph.D., and Ms. Špela Spanžel, an art historian and expert in cultural heritage who led the nomination for the inscription of the tradition of Lipizzaner breeding on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity, currently heads the Directorate for Cultural Heritage at the Ministry of Culture, have demonstrated their deep support for cultural heritage and Slovenia’s natural wealth with their commitment.
Dr. Kukovec and Ms. Spanžel Expressed Enthusiasm About the Role of Godparents
Upon taking on the role of godparents, both expressed joy and pride in being able to participate in such an important initiative.
Dr. Kukovec emphasized: “I accept this honor with great gratitude and humility. Lipizzaners are pure art in living form. When we look out of Plato’s cave, when we see through life’s illusions, we realize the nobility, authenticity, and truth. And this nobility is represented by our Lipizzaners. How lucky we Slovenians are to have them. I am extremely pleased that the placement of Boljka’s Lipizzaner on the central staircase of the EU Court was successful. The Lipizzaner is thus undeniably Slovenian and European at the same time. Art, law, and the intellectual development of the state go hand in hand, and we continue to work in all areas to promote Lipica at the Court, in Luxembourg, and around the world.”
Ms. Spanžel added: “I understand godparenting as a kind invitation to further cooperation, which arose during the preparation of the nomination of the traditions of Lipizzaner breeding for inclusion in UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity. International recognition of this common European heritage, of which we Slovenians are especially proud, continues to oblige us. The Lipica Stud Farm is a special place, a place of exceptional heritage – from historical building heritage and cultural landscape, art collections and modern museums, to UNESCO’s intangible heritage, which is mainly associated with people and the community. Thanks to all who have cared for Lipizzaners through the centuries and to all of you who do it today. Caring for horses marks a special relationship between man and animal, which is emotional and therefore transcends ordinary work obligations. Perhaps it also connects us – people who care for heritage, we primarily love it, and therefore it enriches us as well.”
About Godparenting Lipizzan Foals
Godparenting allows individuals, families, and organizations to financially support the breeding and development of young Lipizzan foals. Godparents become part of the Lipizzaner family and are informed about the progress of their foals, and they also have the opportunity to visit the Lipica Stud Farm at any time and participate in numerous special events.
