History of Ljubljana

It is thought that the history of Ljubljana starts five thousand years ago, changing epochs ranging from the Roman military, trade-based Emona, all the way to the introduction of Slavs to the area. A landmark dating back to the 12^th century is the fortress city which was devastated in the 16^th century, only to be rebuilt in the 19^th century with a new viewpoint. Until the beginning of World War One, the city was ruled over by the Austrians, but the city also suffered a lot from numerous attacks by the Turks, the first one of which came in 1415.

The development of culture starts in the 16^th century, when Ljubljana was a significant center of reform. The first books in Slovenian were published in the 16^th century, and at the same time, a Latin school was opened in the city, as well as the first printing shop. Slovenian language was approved by law to be used in schools in 1813, after the rule of the French had ended in 1797. After the fall of the Austrian Empire in 1918, Ljubljana became the unofficial capital of Slovenia in the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes.

In 1941, Ljubljana was occupied by Fascist Italian forces, and in February of 1942, the city was surrounded by 32km of barbed wire fence. Nazi Germany became its new occupying force in 1943 until Ljubljana was finally liberated in May of 1945. Given the Order of the People, Ljubljana was declared a heroic city for the effort and bravery of its people during World War Two.
Ljubljana officially became the capital of Slovenia in 1991, when Slovenia had already gained independence.

Why visit Ljubljana?

• In 2016, Ljubljana was declared the green capital of the European Union.
• If you ever wanted to visi a city with historical spirit, as well as a modern global flair, Ljubljana is definitely a place for you. Designer Jože Plečnik, whose works exemplify early minimalistic style, created beautiful bridges and buildings in the city, making it special and charming with newly added urban design elements, street lights and pyramids that still stand to this day.
• One of the meanings of the name of the city is found in the word Ljubljena (kissed), as the town of 270 thousand inhabitants, one of the smallest in Europe, is situated in the very heart of Slovenia.
• Ljubljana consists of alluring museums, incredible landmarks, beautiful squares, lively streets full of street artists, restaurants, cafes, all of this giving this city riddled with kisses one special tone of romance. It is no rarety to see couples walking along the Ljubljanica river during summer days, or during winter nights, when they eat roasted chestnuts.
• Ljubljana – „Tak blizi, tak drugače!“ (So close, yet so different!)
• Pack your bags and embark to a place named Ljubljana, a real-life fairy tale!