Visit an iconic crossing in the city, a balustraded bridge that was known for its butchers’ booths and shoemakers’ shops in earlier times.
Go for a picturesque walk across the Shoemaker’s Bridge, one of the oldest bridges over Ljubljanica River in Ljubljana. The original covered wooden structure at this location was built in the 13th century, while the current incarnation was constructed in the early 1930s.
The crossing is made of artificial stone and features several balustrades. Learn about how the bridge came to be named after the shoemakers who once sold their shoes from here. Before their arrival, butchers plied their trade on the walkway. However, the smell of the meat was so powerful that they were strongly directed to move elsewhere, giving up their space to cobblers.
Enjoy the delightful views of the river and the buildings lining its banks as you stroll on the pedestrian-only bridge. Occasionally, people dangle shoes from nearby power lines as a tribute to the bridge’s heritage. During your walk, stop to listen to buskers and other street entertainers who may be performing here.
A statue of Christ was once located at the bridge's southern end. Look at this religious icon at the centuries-old Church of St. Florian, which also has a beautiful fresco of Our Lady of Mercy. Come back to the river in the evening to photograph the bridge when it is illuminated.
Shoemaker’s Bridge is free to cross and accessible at all times. There are bus stops on both sides of the crossing, each within a few minutes away on foot. After you have investigated the historical structure, visit some of the other places of interest within close proximity, such as the Town Square. Ljubljana Castle is a medieval fortress on top of a hill above the bridge and can be reached on foot or by car, tourist train or funicular railway. If you like interesting-looking bridges, cross some of the others in the city. These include the Dragon Bridge, the Butchers' Bridge and the Triple Bridge, which is actually three bridges.
