Nebotičnik Skyscraper and a walk in Park Tivoli Ljubljana

Ljubljana produced some beautiful days during our late May – days that invited a stroll in Park Tivoli Ljubljana or enjoying the views from the iconic Neboticnik Skyscraper. We arrived in the Capital of Slovenia without pre-conceived travel plans. The one thing I had in mind, a possible visit to Metelkova squat, with it’s quirky graffiti, sculptures and bars, didn’t eventuate. It’s funny how that happens sometimes.

Wandering through the University district, a student screeched to a halt on her bicycle to ask if we needed help. Replying that we were fine, she exclaimed “I thought you looked like Aussies – I’m from Melbourne”! Studying literature at Ljubljana Uni, she was excited to talk about Australia and Ljubljana and it was she who suggested the Must See Ljubljana Skyscraper… What Skyscraper

Made for Pinning

 

 

Nebotičnik Skyscraper Ljubljana

The modest dimensions of this so called Skyscraper (70.35 metres and 13 storeys tall), endeared it to me and I can honestly say I enjoyed lounging in my chair parked against the glass ballustrade on the 11th floor terrace.

Built on the site of a medieval monastery, at first locals thought it freakish – fearing it’s height would spoil the city skyline!

The building opened in 1933, celebrated as the tallest building in Yugoslavia and for some years was proudly known as the tallest residential building in all of Europe. Of course when compared to the 426 metres of NYC’s tallest residential building at 426 Park Avenue, it does appear somewhat height challenged.

Bubbles on the skyscraper terrace Ljubljana.

The karst marble foyer is adorned with four bronze head sculptures by France Gorše. This dark marble features in other public buildings in the city.

 

For more photos taken from this venue see Top Things to see in Ljubljana.

The spiral timber staircase leading from Rooftop bar to Cafe is a much loved feature.

Looking south down Slovenska Cesta, Ljubljana

A casual glance down a side street revealed the skyscraper in all it’s glory – the cafe terrace level is above the arches.

Across the street is the Slovene Reformation Park.

These homes remind me of those we saw walking in Jurjevska Street in Zagreb, Croatia.

Do you think the car in front of the house below might belong to the home-owner? It’s a perfect match.

Park Tivoli Ljubljana

On a sunny day there’s nothing more enjoyable than strolling through a city park. They’re free, relaxing and their unique characters reveal much about the city.

We found our way to the park via a rail underpass – an interesting introduction to the green heart of the city, north of the Central District.

Park Map.

The underpass delivered us to the black dot on the above map. From here we realised that a proper exploration of the park would take more time than we had to spare.

The Tivoli section of the park is good for a leisurely stroll, picnic and checking out the art displays, but the adjoining Rožnik/Šiška hill portion offers an extended nature walk, with chestnut or mushroom foraging in season. There are also ski jumps, zoo and a hilltop church to find.

Several paths lead to the hill section from Tivoli and I’ve heard it’s a good idea to photograph any map-boards on your smart phone, to make sure you follow the correct path out – it’s a long walk back from the other side!

Roses and photographers.

Red Roses Rule in Ljubljana.

Jakopič Promenade and Tivoli Mansion

Lined on both sides with extensive photograph displays, the promenade is a continuation of Cankarjeva Cesta, terminating at the Tivoli Mansion International Centre of Graphic Arts. Although the park was formed in 1813, the promenade is a newer addition by Joše Plečnik, the famous Slovene architect, born in Ljubljana.

His influence on the city is likened to that of Gaudi’s on Barcelona. So much so that in the 90’s he was commemorated on a Slovene banknote with the National University, one of his designs, on the flip side.

Tivoli Pond – Park Tivoli Ljubljana

At the park’s south-eastern end, ducks paddle in the pond and pigeons waddle through long green springtime grasses. The bronze plastic statue of 2 fish standing was created in 1935 before finally being erected 1994. The water struggles to keep native fish alive due to the release of aquarium and other non-native species into the pond. I believe fishing is allowed.

In winter it turns into a free ice-skating spot, even though there is an another dedicated skating area in front of the Sports Hall on the northern side of Tivoli park.

Two Fish Standing Statue in Tivoli Pond.

 

Rose Garden – Park Tivoli Ljubljana

The Rose Garden and Tropical Plant Greenhouse (free entry).

Tropical Plant Greenhouse – Park Tivoli

How to get to Nebotičnik Skyscraper and Tivoli Park

Walk from Preseren Square down Slovenska Cesta to the corner of Stefanova Ulica and turn left to Nebotičnik Skyscraper. Leave the skyscraper and move across the street to Slovene Reformation Park. Turn left on the corner of Puharjeva Ulica. Follow this street down and through the underpass into Tivoli Park.

Budget Travel Talk

Tivoli Mansion Graphic Arts can be visited singly (3.50 Euro) or as part of a joint Castle Ticket (11 Euro) which includes Fužine Castle Architecture & Design (3 Euro), Cekin Mansion Contemporary History (3.50 Euro) and Ljubljana Castle (basic entry 7.50 Euro)

Skyscraper Snacks like Burger & Chips or Cake Portion from 5 Euro. They also do breakfast (price list on their website) and list their daily lunch special on their facebook page.

Read our Free Walking Tour of Churches in Cool Locations Ljubljana.

Read about the amazing Open Kitchen Ljubljana, another must see Ljubljana attraction.

Thanks for visiting, I really appreciate it and would love you to add your travel post to the link below for Nancie’s Travel Photo Thursday which I co-host with Ruth from Tanama Tales and  Rachel from Rachel’s Ruminations.