Begunjščica, Mountain peak in Karawanks range, Slovenia

Begunjščica is a peak in the Karawanks range that rises to 2060 meters (6760 feet). The southern slopes are covered with grass, while the northern face features steep limestone walls.

Begunjščica was mined for manganese ore from the 19th century until 1915; the ore fed the Jesenice ironworks. In 1872 engineer Lambert von Pantz used it to produce ferromanganese with 37% manganese, winning awards at the 1873 Vienna World's Fair and the 1876 Centennial Exposition. Total extraction reached 130,000 metric tons at about 30% manganese.

The mountain's name comes from the village of Begunje na Gorenjskem, which lies below its southern slopes. The Slovene Mountain Hiking Trail crosses the ridge, passing the Roblek Lodge at 1,657 m and the Zelenica Lodge at 1,536 m. The southern slopes above the Draga Valley are known for their varied flora, including edelweiss and Zois' bellflower.

The climb is demanding and requires good fitness and steady footing on rocky sections. Sturdy footwear and weather protection are essential, as conditions can change rapidly.

Begunjščica was once Slovenia's main manganese ore mining area. Ore dug here until 1915 supplied 79% of all Slovene manganese processed at the Jesenice ironworks, and in 1872 engineer Lambert von Pantz used it to make ferromanganese with 37% manganese instead of the previous 12%.