Surrounded by the exceptional natural wealth of Triglav National Park and Bled, Radol'ca is a treasure trove of cultural, historical and ethnological attractions. Wonderful monuments to the past are found both in the town of Radovljica itself as well as in the surrounding countryside, while museums house unique collections that attest to the life and creativity of inhabits in the past and the present.
The quaint historical town centre of Radovljica is one of the most beautiful of its kind in Slovenia. The town began to develop on the sunny terraces above the Sava river in the 13th century. Linhart Square, the heart of the old town, is adorned by beautifully preserved bourgeois houses dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, as well as the Radovljica Manor, while the town's museums and galleries feature exhibitions attesting to the wealth of cultural heritage.
There is also a diverse mixture of cultural and historical attractions in the countryside such as churches, castles and other attractions. Nearby Brezje is mainly known for its Basilica of Mary Help of Christians, which is Slovenia's national pilgrimage sanctuary. Works by the acclaimed architect Ivan Vurnik are found in the shadow of the renowned basilica, while adjoining it is a museum featuring nativity scenes from throughout the world.
The village of Begunje na Gorenjskem lies directly beneath Mt. Begunjščica. The entrance to the Draga valley is still to this day protected by the ruins of Kamen Castle. The village is also the birthplace of Slovenian national folk music and Elan skis. The villages of Kropa and Kamna Gorica, which are located on the opposite bank of the Sava river in the Lipnica valley, boast a unique iron working heritage.
Nature in the Radol'ca is no less marvellous, just calmer and more secretive. There are numerous hiking trails throughout the area and view points with far reaching views over the entire Gorenjska region.
A WALK THROUGH RADOVLJICA
The town with the most cultural attractions all in one place is Radovljica. Its historic part is one of the most beautiful in Slovenia, while there are interesting buildings and wonderful views to be found in close proximity.
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The area features an impressive total of 15 museums, galleries and museum collections. They reveal, among others, Slovenian beekeeping and iron working heritage, Elan's innovative skis, and the phenomen of Avsenik's music.
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Visit the villages of Kropa and Kamna Gorica, both of which are imbued with a tradition of iron working, Begunje na Gorenjskem and Brezje – Slovenia's largest pilgrimage sanctuary.
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Set off on a discovery of culture heritage in the company of locals. Take a ride on the Hop-On Hop-Off tourist bus and experience more. We will open the doors of local museums and show you some of the hidden sights of the countryside.
Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday in July and August!
Set off on a culturally-themed journey outdoors. Below are two suggestions for culturally-inspired exercise outdoors. Since Radol'ca is located very close to Vrba, the birthplace of Slovenia's greatest poet, France Prešeren, one of the suggestions below includes a walk there.
On the whole, Radovljica's museums aren't that big, but in fact it's their small size that makes them so special. We have chosen 12 interesting objects that you will be hard pressed to find elsewhere.
Text by Kaja Beton, May 2018
One of Slovenia's most famous architects was born in Radovljica. His most well-known work is the building with the colourful facade on the street Miklošičeva ulica in Ljubljana. On the Tourism Ljubljana website, they call it simply 'Vurnik's House'.
Text and photos by Miran Kambič, January 2018
I was given the task of choosing and presenting 'My Favourite 10' in Radol'ca. And, since 2018 is dedicated to Slovenia's cultural heritage, it's only right that these 10 should be cultural heritage themed.
Written by Kaja Beton, February 2019
In the month when Slovenia celebrates Prešeren Day - a cultural public holiday – we have prepared a list of a range of places that particularly strive for the preservation and presentation of Slovenian culture.
Local ingredients, the finest preparation and an unforgettable experience. Visit Radol'ca this October, where you can visit open days at local farms and take part in a guided culinary experience, while in November the best of Radol'ca's restaurants invite you to enjoy selected menus made using local ingredients.
Lunch with a view. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of Radovljica's mountain huts.
Below we have put together some simple tips for a sustainable visit to Radovljica.
