Staroljubljanski zavod za kulturo (Cultural Institute of Ljubljana’s Old Town)
HISTORY
The activities that eventually led to the establishment of the Institute for Revitalization of the Cultural Image of the Old City Center (now Staroljubljanski zavod) began on July 1, 1986. On that day, the first pedestrian area in the old square “Pod Trančo” and Levstik Square was inaugurated. Neatly arranged tables and chairs were set up on the street, and in the evening, a hurdy-gurdy player added a festive touch. On the first day, locals signalled their assent by tossing coins out their windows, with a short cultural program for dessert. On that first evening, across a variety of location initiators and volunteers alongside prominent Ljubljana citizens made the first big plans for the future of the festival. Ljubljana’s first pedestrian area demonstrated its great potential for cultural programs. Prominent locations – atriums, staircases, piazzas, squares, churches – literally invited cultural events.
The Institute for Revitalization of the Cultural Image of the Old City Center was thus established in 1988. In 2016, the Institute was renamed Staroljubljanski zavod za kulturo (Old Ljubljana Culture Institute).
The then high awareness of the city administration and close cooperation with city services gradually brought forth the realization that interventions in Ljubljana’s old city center were a necessity. Our activities slowly began to lend new value and cultural air to “Old Ljubljana” which we can now proudly share among tourists, citizens of Ljubljana, as well as prominent foreign dignitaries.
It is also very important that we have never viewed culture merely as an end onto itself but also as a significant stimulus in reviving the city centre, creating a special environment, along with all its positive impacts on the quality of life and on tourism.
Staroljubljanski zavod za kulturo
Dalmatinova ulica 10
1000 Ljubljana
Tel.: +386 01 241 66 00
E-mail: staroljubljanski.zavod@siol.net
