Festooned with statues of a Slovene national emblem, this early 20th-century bridge is one of the city’s most recognizable monuments.
Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most) is a fairytale-like bridge that crosses the Ljubljanica River to the Old Town of Ljubljana. Stroll across the bridge, appreciate its craftsmanship and admire its decorative statues. The bridge opened to the public in 1901 and was originally known as the Jubilee Bridge of Emperor Franz Joseph I. It replaced an old wooden bridge and is one of Europe’s earliest examples of a reinforced concrete bridge.
Take a moment to marvel at the bridge’s old-world charm. The design is the work of artists from the famous Vienna Secession. Note architectural features such as the arches and balustrades. Stand in the center of the bridge and enjoy views in both directions along the peacefully flowing river.
Perched atop pillars at both ends of the bridge are the sculptures of menacing-looking dragons, for which the bridge takes its present-day name. The dragon is part of the city’s coat of arms and symbolizes bravery and strength. One legend states that the history of the dragon comes from the time when the Greek god Jason, along with his band of Argonauts, slayed a dragon while traveling between Ljubljana and Vrhnika. Look for additional dragon figurines that decorate the bridge’s streetlamps.
Dragon Bridge is east of Ljubljana’s city center, just a 10-minute walk from Congress Square via a picturesque riverfront pathway. Public buses stop at the bridge’s northern entrance. Walk to the city’s central train station in less than 15 minutes.
Combine your time here with a visit to major attractions located in the city’s medieval Old Town. Shop at fresh produce, organic food and handicraft stalls at the riverfront Central Market. Gaze in awe at the lavish interior of the Cathedral of St. Nicholas.
Follow a path from Vodnik Square that leads up a hillside to Ljubljana Castle. Browse exhibits about the history of the castle, the city and Slovenia. Be amazed by the sweeping views and have your camera poised to snap envy-inducing shots of the pretty cityscape, including the Dragon Bridge.
