Wednesday 16 July in Ljubljana

A hot day with a terrific thunderstorm about 4pm, and a warm calm evening. We joined a Free Tour (free also to pay whatever you feel to be apprise at the end!). Actually it was so good everyone contributed well at the end of the 2+ hour informative and entertaining tour. Our guide Neda took us to the main sights (sites) and made sure we understood something of the history of this small country which has only existed as such for 23 years, and has been in EU for 10 years. First she talked about one of their revered poets Preseren whose statue stands in the square near out hostel.

 Writers are important especially because at last they have their own language recognised.

She talked about the Slovenian "national" anthem which is more of a drinkink song celebrating all the good things in life and ending with the wish that everyone lives happily ever after - not a word of nationalism. Our impressions are that the Slovenians seem happy and optimistic in a realistic way. The city is very clean and tidy. Unlike Trieste which is messy and has many derelict buildings which they are planning to redevelop - if someone comes up with money! Sound familiar, Chch? Trieste would like to see itself as the centre of the (European) Universe, which is clearly a over-grandiose plan. Another connection for us people from Chch - Ljubljana was built on a swamp and had a major earthquake in 1895. Which is another reason for uniformity of building style.

The other person she talked about a lot was Jose Plecnik 1872 - 1957 whose architectural design dominates the city. This is his University Library, which is apparently dark on the lower floors and gets lighter as students ascend, enlightened by knowledge! It contains chairs of his design which our guide said are the most uncomfortable imaginable because he thought students should not have things too easy! However, they do get free education and numerous discounted living benefits etc, so not surprisingly there are many students in Ljubljana.

 There are more charming photos of him on websites, I just couldn't download them ...

And here is his Triple Bridge, which sort of grew like topsy as traffic increased. Actually there is no vehicular traffic now, as large sections of the town are pedestrian only, apart from service vehicles and BIKES! The locals zoom around on oldish looking simple road bikes, great to see. 

 This photo is from a beautiful wooden boat which took us on a gentle trip along the river and back, made at Bled and similar to lake boats which we hope to see tomorrow.

Robyn says I can't have another thunderstorm picture, but this one from the castle looking toward the Kamnisko Savinjske Alps is quite dramatic, as was the storm when it reached us!

And lastly, just for an idea of a simple meal,here is what €18 Ie. about $27 NZ for the two bought us, fish risotto, salad and wine