Gojkovič, a conservation and restoration technician, was honoured for achievements in the conservation and restoration of archaeological objects, especially ceramics.

Conservationist Grobovšek was rewarded for his many achievements in Slovenia and Europe, which showcase his diverse knowledge that has marked many areas of cultural heritage preservation.

Culture Minister Julijan Bizjak Mlakar addressed the ceremony, noting that conservation and restoration have developed into scientific disciplines in Slovenia in the more than 100 years since France Stele was hired as the first conservationist for the Kranjsko province in Austria-Hungary.

Several hundred highly skilled and professionally organised experts are active in the field in the country, she added, stressing their importance for preserving cultural heritage, which educates people and can also generate jobs via cultural tourism.

The event, which needed to be cancelled last year because of financial constraints, is accompanied by an exhibition on the work of both laureates, hosted by the Spomeniškovarstveni center gallery.

The Stele Awards are named after the pioneer of cultural heritage protection in Slovenia and have been conferred for more two decades by the Slovenian Association of Conservators of Cultural Heritage.