The Triple Bridge, located in the very centre of the city of Ljubljana, is considered to be one of the most beautiful places and the main symbols of the capital of Slovenia.
Since ancient times, people have settled near rivers or other bodies of water. The city of Ljubljana is located on both banks of the Ljubljanica River. Therefore, the number of bridges in the city has always been impressive. Even today, each bridge has its own name, its own history, often an extraordinary one, its own traditions or omens. The undisputed leader in terms of beauty is the Triple Bridge, fanning across the river. The other name of the bridge is Hospital Bridge, but the Triple one is more in keeping with the grandiosity of the structure.
There have been wooden bridges in its place since medieval times. Only the central bridge was built of stone in 1842. This 19th century historical monument, the first stone bridge, was designed by the Italian architect Picco.
As the population grew and the city developed, so did the stresses on the bridges. City officials considered many options for their replacement. Jože Plečík's project turned out to be the most original. It provided for the preservation of the central bridge, to which two side bridges were added. The decorative cast-iron railings were only removed from it, preserving the historical appearance intact. The two side bridges were made less wide to emphasise the main bridge. White balustrades, reminiscent of Venice motifs, were placed on all three of them as a single ensemble.
Together they create an elegant ensemble that does more than just connect the transport routes of the right and left banks of the Ljubljanica River. They provide a graceful transition to the Old Town, connect the Town Square with Prešern Square, where the beautiful Franciscan Church of the Annunciation stands. And are simply a beautiful feature of the city's architecture.
During the 20th century, the Triple Bridge has faithfully fulfilled its duties of providing tram and bus traffic. Nowadays, not every vehicle is allowed to pass through the central part. And the side parts have become fully pedestrianised areas. On the benches installed there one can take a break from walking and admire the harmonious architectural creation - the Triple Bridge.
