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The capital of Slovenia is nestled between the castle hill and the
Ljubljanica river. The old city core seduces visitors with its Renaissance,
baroque and Secession facades, decorated portals, and vaulted atriums.
It is the right place to feel the lively pulse of the city. In summer there are
various street performances for you to enjoy after having a refreshing drink in
one of numerous sidewalk cafes. In the weeks before Christmas these streets are
filled with stalls offering original Christmas gifts, hot spiced wine, and
delicious sweets.
The busiest as well as the best known bridge over the Ljubljanica river is
Tromostovje (The Three Bridges), conceived by Jože Plečnik, a famous Slovene
architect who left his mark upon the city with many of his masterpieces which
have to be admired when visiting the town. Among these is the open marketplace,
which is particularly lively on Saturdays when people come here not only to buy
the fresh produce but also to meet their friends.
Among Plecnik's other masterpieces are the National and University Library
(NUK), the Žale cemetery and Cevljarski most (the Cobbler's bridge) across the
Ljubljanica.
On the opposite side of the river is Prešernov trg (the Prešeren square), named
after the greatest Slovene poet. The attractive Franciškanska cerkev (Franciscan
church - Church of the Annunciation) with its red facade determines the Prešeren
square; its steps are a popular spot to sit down and observe the passers-by.
Above the city stands the castle, which acquired its current appearance at the
beginning of 16th century. The most beautiful views of the city are to be had
from its tower, while the history of Ljubljana is presented in the Virtual
Museum, which is situated in the castle itself.
Probably the most famous of the bridges over the Ljubljanica is Zmajski most (the
Dragon bridge), decorated with dragons, the symbol of Ljubljana.
The Tivoli park is the great green space of Ljubljana; the most prominent access
to the park is by Plecnik's promenade. The Tivoli mansion hosts the
International Graphic Art Centre where International Graphic Biennial of Graphic
Arts is held.
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