Plečnik's Ljubljana -

Acclaimed architect Jože Plečnik (1872-1957) left a lasting mark on Europe with his creativity and beautiful sense of design. The cityscapes of Vienna and Prague bear his mark; however, his crowning achievement is the city of Ljubljana. This city is home to a multitude of his creations, as he worked tirelessly to model the city on ancient Athens. His work, referred to as “Plečnik´s Ljubljana”, is counted among the 20^th century’s most important works of art.

Upon returning to the city in 1921, Plečnik took a job as a professor at the University of Ljubljana, and channeled his vast creativity into designing the city. His work is a masterful and unique example of creative urban planning, combining a modern approach with the classical architectural elements of ancient Greece. Plečnik´s love of classical architecture is evident throughout the city, where pillars, balustrades, lintels, and colonnades abound.

Any true lover of art and architecture is sure to have Plečnik´s Ljubljana on their bucket list. It’s simply a stunning place to lose yourself for a day or five, and you’re sure to come away enriched and with a new appreciation of classical design. Here are a few of our favorite spots.

Central Market

One rarely looks to a market for an example of fine architecture, but the central market of Ljubljana certainly breaks that mold. The gorgeous two-storey line of riverside market halls follows the curve of the river. Semicircular windows overlook the winding river, and colonnades adorn the street-facing side. The whole complex pops with beautiful renaissance influences, graceful arches, and elegant columns.

The Church of St. Michael

Truly one of Plečnik´s most original creations, this structure is a mash-up of the classic Greek temple and the Slovenian Kras Churches. The stone and wood construction is built on piles due to marhy ground, and has a cozy, warm feel throughout. The belfry is really the eye-catcher though, with its slim design and multiple openings.

Križanke Summer Theatre

Thanks to its fantastic acoustics and central location, this theatre hosts the majority of Ljubljana’s concerts and most prestigious musical events. The theatre was originally a large monastery complex, and it was handed over to Plečnik when he was already in his 80s. He rebuilt the complex between 1952 and 1956, including many renaissance style elements.

Ljubljana River Barrier

Plečnik landscaped much of the river embankments, all the way up to the river barrier where the river leaves the city. The barrier is an amazing work, both in form and function, as none of the mechanisms for raising or lowering the barrier are visible. All technical elements are hidden, so the gorgeous stone carvings are displayed in their full glory.

Plečnik House

Finally, a visit to Plečnik House gives visitors an intimate look at the life of the master architect. Plečnik lived in this house (which was owned by his brother) from 1921 till his death in 1957. Not only can guests see the architect’s unique interior designs, including a lovely glassed-in porch, but they can also view the Plečnik Collection made up of artifacts left behind by the designer.