Mathematician, scientist, artillery specialist, military strategist. Not a bad list right? Jurij Vega, born in the mountain village of Zagorica in 1754, was all of this and more. His most famous work was that in improving the accuracy of logarithms, which were the most widely used calculation tool until way into the 20th century. Vega’s math exploits weren’t confined to this one act however, and in 1789 he held the world record of calculating pi to 140 places. Only 126 were correct, but it is still pretty impressive. Vega also fought in many battles, combining brains with brawn on a frequent basis, and married a 16-year-old Czech noble lady when he was 33. As you do.

Whilst the house in which he was born was burned down in World War Two, it has since been rebuilt and is still lived in by descendants of his. A memorial room within houses a permanent exhibition to his life and work. A 1.5km hiking trail leads from Dolsko to Zagorica, a meandering stroll through the woods, full of information on this life of one of the most important Slovenes who ever walked the earth. His birthday (23rd March) is celebrated as the municipality holiday. Phone ahead to be sure of a visit.