Ljubljuana is one of Slovenia’s ultimate draws. Located in central Europe – with the Alps and the Adriatic Sea at either side, the city is the largest in the country with some 270,000 inhabitants. Multifaceted in nature, with the beautiful Ljubljanica River functioning as its artery, the city has a modern and vibrant feel to it, while still retaining a relaxed, almost village-like air. In terms of cityscape, the spot is celebrated for its inspiring Art Noveau architecture, and the historical sites are many– all of which bear testament to the city’s intriguing history that dates back to the Middle Ages.
Stroller’s paradise
When in Ljubljuana, strolling about aimlessly is never a waste of time. In terms of specific sites worthy of some attention, one of the most notable landmarks of the city is the Dragon Bridge. Featuring four bronze dragons – the dragon being the symbol of the city – the bridge is constructed using a combination of concrete and iron and was the first of its kind to be created in the city, and indeed in Europe as a whole. Myth has it that the dragons will wag their tails when a virgin crosses the bridge, but these days the menacing-looking beasts are mainly associated with the bitter stereotype of the mother in law.
Famous for its Art Noveau buildings, the highest concentration of this breed of architecture can be found along the initial part of Miklosic Street, which leads off from the Preseren Square. Most of the Art Noveau architecture found in the city is masterminded by either of the architects Maks Fabiani, Ciril Metod Koch and France Vurnik. The City Savings Bank is a building of particular note, and other important ones include Centromerkur department store, Hauptmann House and Cuden House.
Also of architectural interest, the Old Town has a definite allure. Situated on the narrow strip between the river and the hill, the area is anything but sprawling and is defined by narrow townhouses, each of which features a maximum of three windows per floor only – a rule set by the city authorities to save precious space.
Baroque splendour
The works of the Italian painter Giulio Quaglio (1668-1751) form a prominent part of Ljubljuana’s cultural heritage and features within notable buildings such as the baroque Cathedral of St. Nicholas. To enjoy further baroque splendour, and yet more of Quaglio’s art works, steer your step towards The Seminary building that is located within the Ljubljana Market. Inside the building nestles a beautiful two-storey baroque library where a ceiling frescoes by the revered artist can be admired. The library itself is considered one of Slovenia’s most notable baroque pieces of architecture. Adding yet further weight to the work, displayed within are original oak furnishings by the revered cabinetmaker Josip Wergant.
To continue exploring the local art scene and beyond, there’s no shortage of museums in Ljubljuana. Located a stone’s throw from the Tivoli park, the National Gallery counts among the most worthwhile cultural establishment in town as it showcases some of the country’s outmost works including Negress by Anton Azebe; Ivana Kobilca’s Summer; Rihard Jakopic’s Sunny Hillside; and Ivan Grohar’s Sower.
Mingle with the locals or venture up the hill
To experience a slice of authentic city life, visit the flea market on the Cankarjevo Nabrezje promenade embankment along the Ljubljanica river. Open every Sunday morning, the market is a treasure trove for antiques, textiles, art works and random curiosa. Like many central European countries, Slovenians take pride in their patisserie culture and the café industry is well established. Most coffee and cake haunts are lined up along the Ljubljanica, particularly along the distance leading from the Dragon Bridge to St. James Bridge.
Aside from the locale’s notable cityscape, another undeniably attractive aspect of the city is its naturally beautiful surroundings. Enveloped snugly by startingly beautiful countryside, the locale lends itself perfectly to outdoorsy activities, accessible even for travellers visiting only fleetingly. A spot of walking, hiking or cycling can be undertaken only a hop and a skip away, if not even within the city itself. Some of the most popular and well-trodden inner-city trails are those leading to the famous castle hill. A number of different routes are available, the most notable -and arguably the most beautiful- is the Ulica na grad (Street to the Castle). Designed by architect Plecnik, the dwindling trail starts at the Church of St. Florian on Gornji trg (Upper Square), and snakes its way up Danina pot (Dana’s Path) and further on to Sance- the historical town fortress. Owing to the creativity of Plecnik, the remains of the ramparts have been morphed into a beautiful promenade lined with trees. Once the end destination has been reached at the very top of the castle hill, one can expect marvellous views across Ljubljana. Climb up the Viewing Tower on a clear day, and the view extends even further, stretching all the way to the Kamnik-Savinja Alps and the Triglav, Slovenia’s highest mountain that stands mighty tall at 2,864m. Quite a significant landmark in its own right, the Viewing Tower dates back to 1848, and has been accessible to visitors since 1901.
Experience Ljubljuana by boat
While taking in the views of the region is a must, the city can also be experienced from a different perspective, namely by river. To meet the growing demand of water-bound sightseeing, a wide range of riverboat services and excursions are available, and operate day and night.
Accessible from the city centre by boat followed by a trip on a horse-drawn carriage, the nature reserve Iski Morost within the Ljubljana Marshes (Ljubljansko barje) is certainly worth a visit. Marshy meadows are spread across an area of 150sq km, and protected by an international convention. The reserve is home to around 250 species of birds, many of which count among the world’s most endangered bird species. One rare bird that resides within the reserve is the Corn Crake (Crex crex) – a desperately endangered creature with a most distinctive vocal quality.
