Ljubljana guide
Ljubljana is the capital and also the largest city in Slovenia. This charming city is situated in the middle of the country, on the river Ljubljanica. Ljubljana is not large - it only covers an area of 164 km square with only 300,000 residents.
Accommodation in Ljubljana
No matter what the purpose of your visit to Ljubljana is - if you are heading here for business, sightseeing or just for an overnight stay, Ljubljana offers accommodation for everyone. You can for example choose from the modern design hotels (newly opened Hotel Cubo) or from those in a traditional style (Lesar Hotel Angel). In Ljubljana, you can find hotels from hotel chains such as Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana, Best Western Premier Hotel Slon. The most popular hotels in Lubljana are the Grand Hotel Union Executive. You can also find here many three star hotels, guesthouses or apartments. The price ranges from 50 euros per double room per night. The cheapest accommodation in Ljubljana are hostels, the most popular are for example Fluxus Hostel, Hostel Tresor or AdHoc Hostel.
History of Ljubljana
The area of Ljubljana has been inhabited by the Romans since the beginning of our era. It began to develop during the 13th century, at that time its name was Laibach. In 1270, the city was conquered by Czech King Premysl Otakar II. About eight years later, Ljubljana came under Habsburg rule as part of the province of Carniola. With the exception of French occupation between years 1809 and 1813, the city was a part of Austria-Hungary until the end of the First World War. In 1918, Slovenia became a part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes. During the Second World War, Ljubljana was first occupied by the Italians and then the Germans. After the war, Ljubljana became the capital of Slovenia, and also one of the six republics of the former Yugoslavia. It became independent on 25.6. 1991, and 13 years later it became part of the European Union.
How to get to Ljubljana
Ljubljana is located in the heart of Slovenia. However, the ocean is not located far either. For example, Italian town of Trieste or Slovenian Koper are located only 100 km away. The city is great for walks as the center is not large. In the information center you will find a free city map. If you are tired after all, it is possible to use city buses.
Weather in Ljubljana
Average summer temperatures in Ljubljana are around 25-30 °C. During a winter, the temperatures are around 0 °C. The month with most rain is June. On contrary, very favorable time for a visit to Ljubljana is September with pleasant temperatures and very low precipitation.
Sights, attractions and activities in Ljubljana
The appearance of today’s Ljubljana was formed by world-renowned architect Joseph Plecnik. His work can be seen on many monuments. Plecnik was able to link the original Baroque and Gothic architecture with art nouveau and modern look. The whole city is dominated by the Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski grad), which stands on a hill above the city center “Grič”. You can get here by several steep trails or use a lift. Below the castle hill, you can find Old (Stari trg) and Municipal (Mestre trg) squares with a fountain and baroque city hall (Rotovž). From Old city to the city center of Ljubljana you can get by crossing the Triple Bridge (Tromostovje) designed by Plečnik in 1929. Next to the bridge, you can find Presernova Square (Presernova trg), named after the famous Slovenian poet Fracet Preser, whose statue stands in the middle of the square. Furthermore, you can find here Church of the Annunciation and the beautiful Art Nouveau houses. On the other side of the shore, there is pedestrian zone, which looks more like a colonnade. It will lead you through complex market (Pogarčarjev trg) to the Dragon Bridge. The bridge was completed in 1901 and is guarded by four statues of dragons that breathe fire metaphorically. The dragon has Ljubljana also in its emblem so making a picture of this bridge is a must!
Famous personalities of Ljubljana
The most important Slovenian architect Josip (Jože) Plečnik, was born in Ljubljana in 1872. At first, he studied arts high school in Graz and then architecture at the Vienna Art Academy under Professor Otto Wagner. In Prague, he worked as a professor at the College of Applied Arts (1911-1921). During this time, he became friend with the first Czech president TG Masaryk and 1920 as chief architect involved in the reconstruction of Prague Castle. In Prague, he also participated in the construction of the church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on the square of Jiri of Podebrady. His most important monuments in Ljubljana include the Triple Bridge, Tivoli Gardens, the National and University Library or colonnade along the Ljubljanica River.