Zmajski most, which translates into English as the Dragon Bridge, is the most-photographed site in Ljubljana. One of the earliest reinforced concrete bridges in Europe, it is best-known for the four bronze dragons perched upon the bridge’s corners.
Its construction dates back to the turn of the 20th century when Ljubljana was a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It was designed by the renowned architect Jurij Zaninović, who incorporated elements of Vienna Secession and Art Nouveau styles, giving the bridge its unique and captivating appearance.
Dragons have long been a symbol of Ljubljana. Legend has it that Ljubljana was founded by the Greek hero Jason and his companions, the Argonauts, after they defeated a dragon that once inhabited the nearby swamps. This story is surely apocryphal, but it resulted in Ljubljana being called “the dragon city,” and the mascot of its sports teams are green dragons.
Locals and tourists alike often touch or even rub the dragons, which supposedly brings good luck. There is also a local saying that if a virgin walks across the bridge, the dragon statues will shake their tails.
Sights along the way:
- Križanke,
- City Museum of Ljubljana
- National and University Library,
- Kongresni trg,
- Prešernov trg,
- Tromostovje,
- Prešeren Monument,
- Central market.
