Ljubljana

The creations of the famous architect Jože Plečnik (1872–1957) put a mark on three cities of Central Europe: Vienna, Prague, but most of all his beloved home town of Ljubljana. It was Plečnik’s objective to breathe new life into Ljubljana by redesigning it into a comprehensive masterpiece. The most prominent landmarks include the Triple Bridge, the Cobbler’s Bridge, the building of the National and the University library, the Križanke summer theatre, the Žale cemetery and others.

The magnificent statues of dragons, which are the symbol of Ljubljana, are one of the main attractions of the city. The Dragon Bridge was constructed between 1900 and 1901 and was dedicated to the Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I. It is considered a masterpiece of Secession architecture. Also, when completed, it was one of the first reinforced concrete bridges of contemporary Europe.

Ljubljana Central Market is a colourful and lively place, always buzzing with activity. At the market, visitors are able to purchase local products and foods, famous throughout Slovenia. Simultaneously, the market is also one of the principal architectural landmarks. The mighty colonnades designed by Jože Plečnik rise above the hustle and bustle of the market, while their façades overlook the banks of the Ljubljanica.

St. Nicholas’ Church, the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Ljubljana, was completed in its current form in 1701 on the foundations of an older church. The church built by the Jesuit architect Andrea Pozzo is adorned with frescoes by Giulio Quaglio and is considered one of the jewels of Baroque art. Also famous is its entrance door made in the 20th century. The carvings on the main door depict the history, while the postern doors are decorated with portraits of Slovene bishops and Jesus.

The principal Slovene museum keeps the most important finds of the historical heritage of Slovenia. It exhibits the world’s oldest musical instrument (the 60,000 year-old Divje babe Flute), remains of the pile dwelling culture from the Ljubljana Marshes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a lapidarium with Roman tombstones and other important items from throughout history.

Tivoli Park is the green heart of Ljubljana. It lies on the edge of the city and gradually rises towards Rožnik, which is criss-crossed by numerous recreational paths. However, Tivoli Park offers more than just walks. It is in Tivoli Park that two of Ljubljana’s main museums are located inside former mansions, including a popular outdoor exhibition area, a beautiful pond and a café, as well as a plant nursery hosting a permanent exhibition of tropical plants.