Slovenia is perhaps not the first pick
when jetting off to a relaxing holiday destination or exciting adventures. Some
people probably have heard of it for the first time. While most tourists flock
to France, Italy, Germany, and other popular European countries, this little
country in the central part becomes underrated.
However, first-time travelers won't get disappointed with Slovenia's beautiful
landscape, nature-made wonders, folk culture, and interesting history. I, myself, can attest to that. Here are few of the jaw-dropping experiences that only in Slovenia can be found.
About 9 kilometers from the Postojna Cave is the Predjama Castle built in the mouth of a cave on a 120-meter cliff. More than being the feat of human engineering and natural wonder, the castle tells rich history of famous Slovenian nobles including the legendary knight-turned-robber named Erazem Lueger. Inside the castle is a network of secret channels and caves for adventure seekers and which were also used as filming locations and for paranormal activity investigations.
Postojna Cave is the second largest cave system in Slovenia. Visitors will be transported into the 24-kilometer limestone cave carved by the Pivka River. Words are not enough to describe the feeling while exploring the limestone stalagmites formed by tiny droplets thousands of years and the haunting interior bubbles. Other things not to miss are the large cave known as Concert Hall for its perfect acoustics and the dragon, an endemic olm.
- Ljubljana
Ljubljana [lyoo-blyah-nuh] is Slovenia's capital. By city standards, it is quite small. In fact, you can walk from the historic center to the opposite side in just 15 minutes. If you have a day to relax, take a laid-back stroll along this old town, sip the best European coffee in the outdoor cafes, and more. There are more reasons to love about this beautiful city.
The Triple Bridge, Tromostovje in Slovenian, is a group of three bridges across the Ljubljanica River that connects the medieval town and modern city of Ljubljana.
The Dragon Bridge that crosses the Ljubljanica River between the Kopitar Street and Ressel Street was built in the early 20th century. This is one of the dragons that Jason, the legendary founder of Ljubljana, and the Argonauts killed.
The recently-opened Butcher's Bridge where lovers symbolically padlock their love and throw the keys into the river.
Also known as home to the dragons is the Ljubljanski Grad (Ljubljana Castle) that sits atop of a hill overlooking the entire city and surrounding areas. It was constructed in the 11th century as a medieval fortress. It was rebuilt for several times, now sporting some modern architecture as a museum.
- Bled Island
Bled Island is the one and the only island in Slovenia. It is surrounded by the lake Bled that features the clearest water I have ever seen. Small and big fishes can be easily spotted in the area.
The island can be reached via the peaceful wooden boat ride (called pletna) across the Lake Bled.
The 52-meter tower of a pilgrimage church in Bled island dedicated to Assumption of Mary.
- Maribor
Maribor is the second-largest city in Slovenia, an old town boosting the real-life vibe, nature retreats, and incredible wine vineyards. While the charming capital Ljubljana is a non-disputed tourist destination, Maribor is relatively more relaxed and distinctly different. In fact, it was awarded the European Capital of Culture in 2012 making it the best place to experience and learn all about the local culture of Slovenia.
Maribor sits along the River Drava in the northeast of Slovenia. It suffered intense bombing during the World War II and many re-built and replaced buildings are plain and nothing special. The architectural designs in Maribor were also Venetian-inspired.
The Plague Column was originally built in 1681 as a symbol of gratitude for the end of the 1680 plague epidemic that took one-third of the city's population.
The 400-year old Žametovka is the oldest vineyard in the world.
There are many historical structures in Maribor, but at the start of 21st century, plans for the construction of modern businesses, residential, and entertainment areas were made.
One of the most colorful graveyards I've seen is the one from Fram, a peaceful town near Maribor.
- Ptuj
Ptuj, located in the northeastern area, is the oldest recorded city in Slovenia. It was inhabited since the late Stone Age and was a Roman military fort. It was traditionally part of the Styria region and Austria-Hungarian Empire. The majority of the residents in the 20th century were Germans, but it is now inhabited largely by Slovenes.
One of the most popular landmarks, and probably the very first castle I entered, is the Ptuj Castle. It is located along the Drava River overlooking the town.
The Ptuj Castle was built in the mid-12th century as a defense against the Hungarian forces.
In the years after 1945, the buildings around the castle were converted into a museum of regional history.
Although it was only in 1991 when Slovenia achieved its sovereignty and independence from Yugoslavia, this Slavic country has been inhabited since prehistoric times which tells so much about its rich history and culture. It has over 2 million population in 2018 and was economically and politically integrated with western Europe in the 21st century.
Hvala lepa, Slovenija!🍻
No comments:
Post a Comment