The masterpieces by Plečnik are within reach
In 2017, Slovenia marks the 60th anniversary of the death of the great Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik. He left his greatest mark in the Slovenian capital, which is why many refer to it as Plečnik's Ljubljana. His mastery is visible in the intertwining of the classical formal elements and his own inspiration. You can easily visit the majority of Plečnik's most famous gems by foot. Discover the legacy of Jože Plečnik, which was nominated to be entered on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is currently on the Tentative List.
Over the Triple Bridge to the marketplace
Meet us at the Prešeren Square, one of the most prominent rendezvous points in the centre of Ljubljana. Looking down on the Ljubljanica River, you will undoubtedly notice the most renowned and impressive connection to the opposite bank – the Triple Bridge. Plečnik added two more bridges for pedestrians to the first one and thus created a unique feature of Ljubljana.
When you cross the Triple Bridge, another remarkable Plečnik masterpiece awaits on the right bank of the Ljubljanica River – i.e. the Ljubljana Central Market. On two stories of covered markets, you will find shops with dairy products, butcher's shops, fish markets and you may well be tempted by the smell of fresh baked goods. You can observe the happenings on the river or on the opposite embankment through the semi-circular windows of the marketplace, or walk along the long row of pillars on the other side. While admiring Plečnik's work, you can also enjoy the hustle and bustle of the open market where the merchants offer fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, herbs and other produce every day.
Plečnik's temples of culture
Only a few steps from the Triple Bridge, you can enter the National and University Library, the largest library in Slovenia, which is another architectural gem designed by Jože Plečnik. Its recognisable façade is noticeable from afar. It’s a combination of red brick and stone elements of various designs. Inside the building you will be impressed by an imposing staircase with 32 marble pillars, and don’t miss the chandeliers in the reading room, designed by Plečnik himself.
In the direct vicinity of the National and University Library, you can enjoy the music of the open-air theatre of Križanke, one of the most acoustically impressive places in Slovenia. Plečnik transformed a former monastery into a unique venue for various musical events. You simply must experience it!
Dreaming by the Ljubljanica River in Trnovo
If you wish to move away from the actual centre of the city, visit the Trnovo Quay. The large stone stairs are a popular meeting place for all generations. Walk along the organised paths of the Ljubljanica River embankment, which bears the distinctive Plečnik signature.
In this part of Ljubljana you should not overlook the work of Plečnik in the Trnovo Church and on the Trnovo Bridge, which is one of the rare bridges in the world on which trees grow.
Find out about Plečnik's life and work
Plečnik's house in the vicinity of Trnovo Bridge, where he lived after he returned from abroad in 1921 and until his death, is a true treasury of the architect's creativity. A walk through the house resembles a walk through his life and work. Plečnik’s house is an important academic centre for anyone studying Plečnik's work as well as an experience centre where families can join in with fun and educational tasks related to his work. Join Plečnik's mischievous dog Sivko, who will guide you along the Plečnik themed trail among his most eminent creations in Ljubljana!
Following Plečnik's footprints elsewhere in Slovenia
Discover Plečnik's inheritance elsewhere in Slovenia! In Celje, you will recognise Plečnik's work in the building of the former Peoples Bank and near the central railway station you will be welcomed by Plečnik's pavilion. When entering the city centre of Kranj along the Mohor hill you will find Plečnik's arcade and fountain, and he also designed the façade of the Prešeren's Theatre. At the estate of the Villa Bled overlooking Lake Bled rises the Belvedere pavilion, forming part of Plečnik's plan for a royal mansion.