Ljubljana is one of the smallest capitals, so its attractions can be explored quite quickly. However, a short trip is definitely worth it!
As the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana is the center of the country in almost every sense. Its river, the Ljubljanica, flows into the Sava River in the northern part of the city. The old town is located on the right bank, while the new districts are on the left. The old town is situated in a bend of the Ljubljanica, around Castle Hill.
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Ljubljana attractions
Prešeren Square
Located on the banks of the Ljubljanica, the city’s main square features buildings in various architectural styles.
The most notable among these is the Church of the Annunciation, built in the 17th century in the Baroque style. The Franciscan church is attached to a monastery with a library of over 70,000 books.
St. Nicholas Cathedral
The cathedral is situated in the „loop” of the Ljubljanica River, between the castle and the river.
Originally, a Baroque church stood in its place, which burned down in 1469, leading to the construction of this temple. The cathedral predominantly reflects the work of Italian masters. The rear dome and the altar painting are the work of Matevz Lanus, and the frescoes in the nave depict the life of Saint Nicholas. Most of the columns are gilded.
Ljubljana Castle
Perched on Castle Hill, the castle is a prominent attraction of Ljubljana and appears on the city’s coat of arms.
Its history dates back to the 11th century, gaining its present form in the 15th century. It was continually expanded in later periods. It served defensive purposes, especially against Ottoman invasions. The most beautiful part is the St. George Chapel.
It also has a Hungarian connection, as Prime Minister Count Lajos Batthyány was imprisoned here in 1849. There’s a memorial plaque in the clock tower in his honor.
Not only are the exhibitions worth visiting, but also the views. There are fantastic panoramas of the city and the distant Julian Alps.
You can reach the castle on foot or by funicular, with the lower station near the northern children’s theater.
Mestni trg and Stari trg
The pedestrian street in the old town runs in a semi-circle below the castle and is very atmospheric.
Along this street, you’ll find the Town Hall, the cathedral, a fountain, and numerous Baroque buildings and restaurants.
Continuing south on Stari Street, many consider it the most beautiful street in Ljubljana. On the adjacent Gornji Street, you can see very beautiful, differently colored buildings.
Tivoli Park
Located a few hundred meters from the city center, the main park of the city features French gardens, promenades, and sculptures.
The park contains two castles. One showcases the history of Slovenia, while the other is used as an arts center.
Triple Bridge (Tromostovje)
The most famous of the bridges over the Ljubljanica, it comprises three bridges and connects Prešeren Square with the area below the castle.
Originally, only the central stone bridge existed, with the two side bridges added in the 1990s. These allow access to the riverside promenade.
Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most)
Located in the eastern part of the old town, it’s named after the four dragon statues on its corners. The latticed reinforced concrete bridge is a technical monument.
Initially named Jubilee Bridge when built. Renamed in 1919, as the city’s emblem features a dragon.
Legend has it that the dragons wag their tails whenever a virgin crosses the bridge. 🙂
Butchers’ Bridge (Mesarski most)
A pedestrian bridge located between the two aforementioned bridges, made more colorful by a sculpture and hundreds of padlocks on its sides.
Republic Square (Trg Republike)
The square is dominated by two tall buildings standing next to each other. Built in the 1960s, it became an internationally recognized masterpiece of socialist modernist architecture.
Slovenian National Museum
Located on the corner of Republic Square, the museum was founded in 1821 and moved to the Rudolfinum building in 1885.
It hosts several permanent exhibitions, including prehistoric, Roman, Egyptian, and medieval collections, beyond Slovenian themes.
Market
Near the Dragon Bridge, in the old town, is the open-air market.
Fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, food, and everything typical of a market can be found here.
AKC Metalkova
Near the main train station, a true cultural center has emerged.
Formerly a military center, it has now become an underground-style place with various artistic works, graffiti, and an active nightlife. It’s worth visiting during the day to see these artworks.