Valt Jurečič. Photo: Jure Eržen, Delo

The Croatian Heraldic and Vexillological Association (HGZD) received the news with great sadness that the Slovenian heraldist and great friend of our Association Valt Jurečič passed away on 26 September 2024. Valt (he would also sign Walt) was a pivotal figure in Slovenian heraldry and vexillology at the end of the 20th and the beginning of the 21st century. Born in 1937, he was significantly involved in this aspect of Slovenian cultural heritage in Central Europe since the mid 1970s. He would describe his life’s mission as raising awareness among the general public about the cultural richness and importance of heraldry.
He was the founder and first president of the Slovenian heraldic, genealogical, and vexillological society “Heraldica Slovenica” in 1991 and laid the foundation for the spread of these sciences in Slovenia while also connecting with similar associations internationally. He participated in several international congresses of heraldry and vexillology and was a member of the International Academy of Heraldry (AIH). After the achievement of Slovenia’s independence, he focused his efforts on introducing order and regulations in the heraldic and vexillological fields. He was a voice of reason and knowledge at a time when these disciplines often abounded with hobbyists and graphic designers who lacked a proper in-depth approach and understanding of the issues involved in making and using such symbols. His work was crucial for the establishment of standards that today help maintain the integrity and consistency of Slovenian heraldry, above all in relation to Slovenian municipal symbols.
In Zagreb, Valt participated at the founding assembly of the Croatian Heraldic and Vexillological Association in 2006, and afterwards held several well-attended and well-received lectures at the Slovenian House in Zagreb and at other locations where he was a guest lecturer of HGZD.
Jurečič authored dozens of municipal coats of arms and associated flags in Slovenia, leaving an indelible mark on the visual and cultural image of the country. In addition, he collaborated on many editions that became key reference works in the field of heraldry. However, he was not only a dedicated researcher but also a mentor to many young heraldic researchers, from whom a new generation of scientists grew up. His influence will be felt long into the future, as he laid the foundations for the further development of these disciplines. Valt Jurečič will be remembered as an exceptional expert, a dedicated guardian of cultural heritage, and a pioneer in the field of heraldry.
Rest in peace, dear friend, and may your memory be blessed.