Posted on Posted onBy Miško

Learn about the Legends, History, and Travel Tips for Your Visit to Ljubljana Castle

When you arrive in Ljubljana, it’s hard to miss the enchanting castle perched on Castle Hill, right in the center of Ljubljana. It stands tall as a symbol of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Imagine waddling through ancient stone corridors where knights once roamed or standing atop the fortress walls, gazing out at the sprawling city below. As legends of dragons and heroic battles come to life, the castle will take you back in time. Ljubljana Castle offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning for more. Dive into the tales and treasures of this iconic landmark, and let the magic of Ljubljana captivate you as it did us.

Let’s start with some practical information about Ljubljana Castle

Accessibility

The castle is easily accessible on foot or by bicycle using one of the many footpaths. 

You can also come to Castle Park by car. There is a paid Ljubljana Castle parking area with 40 spaces. Prices vary based on how long you stay—the first hour is 2.00 €, the second hour is 2.00 €, and each additional hour is 2.50 €. If you lose your parking tickets, it’s 30.00 €, and if you are only dropping someone off for 15 minutes, you are free to stop here. For more information, check their website here—link.

Funicular Railway

Ljubljana Castle is also an experience in itself, as you can access it via a funicular. It is one of the most comfortable and picturesque routes. At the end of 2006, the Municipality of Ljubljana connected the Ljubljana Castle with the old town center with this funicular. The lower funicular station is in Krek Square opposite the Ljubljana Central Market. The railway tracks were built just outside the medieval walls so as not to interfere with the layout of the former medieval city. 

  • Number of cabins: 1
  • Cabin capacity: up to 33 persons
  • Maximum capacity: up to 500 persons/hour
  • Speed: 3m/s
  • Tickets: Adults one way is 3.30€ and a return ticket is 6.00€, children 2.30€ for one way and 4.50€ for a return ticket. Penguins have a free ride. 

If you want to learn more about the different paths to take, check out their website here – link.

Opening Hours of Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. during winter months and from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the peak season. For more details, check out this link.

Tickets to the Ljubljana Castle

You can buy tickets online or also directly at the entry gate. 

  • Adults: 16 €
  • Children: 11.20 €
  • Penguins: free entry

You can also buy a combination of an entry ticket and a funicular ticket. For more information and price changes, check the website link.

Amenities

The castle features a restaurant, café, and gift shop. It also has interactive exhibits and a museum dedicated to Slovenian history.

Lockers are also available when you want to leave your backpack or suitcases to explore the castle freely. Or you can charge your phone if needed. 

A Walk Through History of Ljubljana Castle 

Ljubljana Castle’s history dates back to the 11th century, though it was extensively rebuilt in the 15th century to defend against Ottoman invasions. Here are a few key historical highlights. 

    • Roman Roots. Archaeological evidence suggests that the hill has been inhabited since the Roman period, serving as a strategic military post.
    • Medieval Fortress. Today’s castle was constructed mainly in the 15th century and features robust defensive walls and towers.
    • Napoleonic Wars. During the early 19th century, Ljubljana came under French rule as part of the Illyrian Provinces, and the castle served as a military stronghold.
    • Austro-Hungarian Period. Throughout the 19th century, the castle was used as a barracks and later as a prison under Austro-Hungarian rule.
    • Yugoslav Era. After World War II, Ljubljana Castle became a cultural and historical monument within the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.
    • Royal Residence. In the 19th century, the castle served as a residence for the local aristocracy and later as a prison.
    • Modern Restoration. Significant renovations in the late 20th century transformed the castle into a major cultural venue, hosting exhibitions, concerts, and various events.

The Legend of the Dragon

No visit to Ljubljana Castle would be complete without delving into its most famous legend—the story of the Ljubljana Dragon. According to local folklore, a fierce dragon once lived in the swamps near the castle. The dragon terrorized the villagers and demanded a young woman be sacrificed regularly. When it was the time of the major’s daughter, a knight, Jason and the Argonauts slew the dragon during their quest for the Golden Fleece. The major offered the hand in marriage to the brave knight, but he was a free spirit and continued his journey. 

This legend is so integral to the city’s identity that the dragon is now featured on Ljubljana’s coat of arms and the Dragon Bridge.

Our Waddle Through Ljubljana Castle

First, we waddled up to the castle from Ulica na Grad Street. It’s a steep waddle but not that long. We bought our tickets directly at the gate and started our exploration of this castle, which dates back far into history. 

As the first thing, we wanted to see the bell tower and the views from there. As you waddle up the stairs and stop up, stop at the 5D presentation of the castle’s history. We learned a lot of interesting facts, and the presentation was truly astonishing. It goes on regularly and is worth the wait. The quality is very high, and the storyline is captivating. 

Then we made it up to enjoy the views. When the weather is good, you can see all of Ljubljan and even part of the Alps. 

Our next stop was the underground to learn more about the history and different areas the castle went through. Some interesting facts can also be found here, especially if you are a history buff. 

For sure, check out the underground as well, where people get off the funicular. It is built incredibly using the cliff on which the castle stands. Note: There is also a toilet here for 1€, but you will find a free toilet when exploring the castle deeper. 

We also found the “Dragon’s Den,” but there was no dragon. Maybe it was out or sleeping; who knows?

You can also access another fantastic view from the walls. And this one is also free, as most of the castle you can explore. Here, you enjoy one part of Ljubljana. 

The last thing we explored was the Puppet Museum, where you can play with the puppets. You will need to take the elevator up for this one. Some parts of this exhibition are creepy, straight out of a horror movie, but some are cute. 

Overall, we enjoyed discovering the Ljubljana castle. Note also that apart from the Tower, Puppet Museum, Gallery, and Chapel, most of the castle is free to explore. You can come here with your family and children for a whole day. 

You can also meet Frederick there, the rat or mouse who explains the castle’s history. Then, you can buy lots of merchandise. 

Whether you are captivated by the legendary dragon, intrigued by intriguing medieval architecture, or simply seeking a stunning vantage point over Ljubljana, the castle promises an unforgettable experience. Make sure to include it on your bucket list of Ljubljana and immerse yourself in the captivating stories and scenic beauty that define Ljubljana Castle.

Explore the Ljubljana Castle and waddle more! 

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