27-08-2011
Slovenia is a moderately small country, its capital – Ljubljana is also one of the smallest capitals in Europe,Town is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Slovenia with more than one million visitors a year. It’s a mix of stunning architecture, a lovely river littered with charming bridges, plus heaps of nice restaurants, bars and cafes. The streets are pedestrianized so that makes it quieter and more relaxed. Ljubljana is a picturesque town full of romantic attractions.
Slovenia stretches between the Adriatic Sea and the Alps. In 1918 the Slovenes joined the Serbs and Croats in forming a new nation named Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes, the country was renamed to Yugoslavia in 1929.
After World War II, Slovenia became a republic of the renewed Yugoslavia, which though communist, distanced itself from Moscow’s rule. Dissatisfied with the exercise of power of the majority Serbs, the Slovenes succeeded in establishing their independence in 1991. Since then, Slovenia has successfully integrated into the international community and is becoming a full member of the European Union and joins NATO.
Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital, is considered to be a yet undiscovered gem of Europe. The Ljubljanica River runs right through the middle. The whole area is a pedestrian zone, so you can walk around without fear of getting run over by a car.
The city of Ljubljana stands on a place where an ancient Roman city of Emona stood. It is known by the name Ljubljana since the 12th century when it was first mentioned in a written document. In the Middle Ages, both the city and the Slovenian culture began to flourish.
In the centuries that follow, Ljubljana changed its appearance more than once. It was first built in the Renaissance style and then renovated in the Baroque style.
Ljubljana Castle
Ljubljana Castle, standing on a hill above the city for about 900 years, is Ljubljana’s main attraction. You can reach it by funicular railway or climb it on foot. The castle’s tower and ramparts offer the most beautiful views of the city.
Plecnik’s Ljubljana
The image of Ljubljana is most marked by the work of the world-renowned architect Joze Plecnik, who also arranged the urban planning of the central part of the city. The famous Triple Bridge belongs among Plecnik’s most famous works.
Presernov trg Square with the Franciscan Church
Presernov trg Square is the heart of the historic city centre. It is a blend of Baroque, Secession and architecture of Joze Plecnik. His image is marked by the pink facade of the Franciscan Church, which is probably the most recognizable image of Ljubljana, a monument to the poet France Preseren and Plecnik’s Triple Bridge.
The Cathedral (Church of St Nicholas)
The cathedral of the city of Ljubljana, in which the headquarters of the Ljubljana Diocese is located, is the most important Baroque church in Ljubljana. The site where it stands was originally occupied by a Romanesque basilica from the 13th century and was built in 1701 after the first basilica was burnt down by the Turks. It boasts exceptional wall paintings and other artistic heritage.
St. Mary Church on Bled Island
A boat ride through Ljublijana River, visit to the alpine resort of Bled – which ranks among the most beautiful alpine scenic mountains, renowned for its mild, healing climate and thermal lake water. Embark Pletna boat and ride to Bled Island, visit the church of St. Mary, and return to city.