One thing you'll notice about Ljubljana is that everything is closeby. It will probably not take you by surprise that in such a tiny city different spaces flourish one next to the other - and it so happens that the central market in all its livelihood stands by the main cathedral and seminary, places of quietness and religious contemplation.
The seminary inhabits an early 17th-century building. The library hidden within (it is possible to organize a group visit) holds great “treasures” of baroque splendor, such as the beautifully painted illusionistic ceiling done by Guilio Qualio. There is, however, a telling link between the outside and the inside - the stone portal.
Adorned by two giants guarding the knowledge inside and carrying the portal's crossbeam, the portal itself represents the passage from secular to sacred. The inscription above that reads "VIRTUTI ET MUSIS" inclines that this institution honors virtues and the arts (muses). To me, the true magnificence of this portal created by stonemason Luka Mislej and sculptor Angelo Putti is the combination of symbols coming from different eras and ideologies. I understand the two Atlantes as holders of the Earth as they remind me of Atlas from Greek mythology. Angel or putto as a symbol co-exists in both worlds – as a heavenly creature and as Eros, the son of Aphrodite. But here is my challenge for you: can you find the fourth figure representing St. Nicolas? Hint – you will find it if you wish to open the door.
Find your way with 94 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Did you know that Ljubljana has its own "Stolpersteine", or 'stumbling blocks' that commemorate the city's oft-forgotten Jewish holocaust victims?
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"FTP @ Technological park" is a bistro in Ljubljana that always makes me happy. I love their daily options and low-carb lunches. Try their romantic Šabesa.
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"Žale" Ljubjlana is one more cemetery I love. I promise, I'm not 'black!' This one's truly an outdoor gallery and the Garden of all Saints is spectacular!
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"K–House" in Ljubljana is an award-winning apartment building made to look like a gallery, especially as you can look inside! A bit stalkerish, but OK!
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"NIČ ART" in Ljubljana is more than just an atelier open for everyone - it's a hip place you simply have to check out for yourself!
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"Northern City Park" in Ljubljana is a great choice when it comes to going for walk - I love the busts of important authors & the sea-themed playground!
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"Črno Zrno" in Ljubljana makes some specialty cold brew coffee that's truly unique - it's served in wine glasses and it has beer, like foam!
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"Vinska klet Brataševec–Trošt" Ljublana is a wine shop that stores wines from the Vipava valley in south Slovenia that you can buy as well as taste there.
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"MGL" Ljubljana City Theatre is one of my favorite theaters. You can also watch it online for free on their Youtube channel...
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"Cafetino" in Ljubljana WILL make your head spine from there choice in coffee. My classic choice is the Yemen mocha, but you really can't go wrong here...
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"Gostilna Vida" is a restaurant in Ljubljana that makes me feel as if I'm inside a jungle! I like it because it has something for every strange need...
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