Trips

After our cave tour we continued on to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. We met Robert, our local guide, for a stroll around the central city. Ljubljana is called the “Hidden Gem of Europe” and we agree. An earthquake in 1885 destroyed much of the city and what was rebuilt before WWI is considered Secessionist architecture. It is Slovenia’s Art Nouveau. The house across from our hotel is now a cooperative banking house and is painted in bright geometric designs.

Secessionist architecture - a bank	Painted in the pattern of the Slovenian flag
Tower of Ljubljana Castle in the distance	Manhole covers
Ljubljana Castle	University of Ljubljana
We looked at the 1701 Philharmonic building with an intimate 400 seat hall on the second floor. Ljubljana has three symphony orchestras!	Flying the flag of Slovenia
Ljubljanica River	Paddle board on the Ljubljanica River
Street sign - another unprounceable language
Presernov Trg is the main square	Dragon Bridge
Dragon Bridge	The Preseren Monument/Statue (1905) stands in the square. He is Slovenia’s greatest poet and wrote the seven stanzas of the National Anthem that speaks to peace in all countries.
Butcher's Bridge love locks	We walked to the Central Market, an open air and a covered market. Most merchants had already closed for the day. Further down, chefs from local restaurants were setting up for the Friday evening food fest. We went back later to see if we wanted to tangle with mobs of people to get some dinner. Instead we opted for the Mediterranean Restaurant and ate outside in relative calm enjoying “unfiltered “ homemade Slovenian dark beer and pizza. It was very nice. We like this small capital city!
Friday evening food fest	Friday evening food fest
Friday evening food fest	Lots of people like the Friday evening food fest
A "boat race" through town	Doors of the Cathedral
Dinner	Clock tower of the Town Hall
Street musicians

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