Ljubljana has been the
cultural, educational, economic, political and
administrative center of Independent Slovenia
since 1991. We found Slovenia and its people to
be lovely and wished we had more time to see
more of this diverse and vibrant tiny country.
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Since its independence from the Socialist
Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, Slovenia has made remarkable
progress in industry, commerce, sports and arts.
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The main attractions of the old town
including the Town Hall, Ljubljana Cathedral, the Robba
Fountain and the Central Market are located around a large
central square.
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A pedestrian zone follows the banks of
the
Ljuljanica River and encompasses the major attractions of
the city.
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A funicular rises from the old town
center to the Ljubljana Castle complex, a medieval structure
rebuilt several times over the centuries and now used as a
cultural venue.
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Ljubljana is known for its dozen
picturesque bridges, including the Triple Bridge, the Fish
Footbridge, the Butcher's Bridge and the Dragon Bridge.
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The Franciscan Church of the Annunciation, with its red
façade, is one of the most striking attractions in Preeren
Square.
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Wandering the back streets offered a
glimpse of the earlier more difficult times in Slovenia's
history.
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Ljubljana has significant cultural
attractions such as a national gallery and theatre while
also hosting many alternative arts and literary
organizations.
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Fiaker, open horse-drawn wagon
rides have a long tradition in Slovenian towns.
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The traditions of basket weaving and of
suha roba, or woodenware, includes the crafting of
kitchen items, spoons and decorated spoon containers.
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Statue of martryed Mayor Ivan Hribar at Shoemaker's
Bridge |
One of the dragon balustrades of Dragon Bridge |
Musician performing at Cobbler's
Bridge |
There are hundreds of sculptures and statues
throughout the city and numerous performers on the streets.
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All attractions in Slovenia are within
a 2 hour drive from Ljubljana, from the Adriatic Sea to the
mountains of the Posavje region.
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The Slovenian countryside is
beautiful, dotted with rich farmland and well-kept villages.
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We used comfortable public buses to
travel into and around Slovenia.
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Lake Bled is a tourist destination in the
Julian Alps. It is known for its pretty island, its castle
and its hiking trails. There was an international rowing
competition at the time we were there.
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