The dragon has been associated with Ljubljana for centuries, primarily due to a local legend and  immense cultural significance it holds, with numerous sculptures and symbols scattered throughout the city. The celebrated Dragon Bridge, adorned with four majestic dragon statues guards the city centre, and these mythical creatures serve as powerful emblems of strength, courage, and protection woven into Ljubljana’s cultural fabric. Dragons play an essential role in local folklore, representing both a physical presence defending the city and a metaphorical symbol linked to Slovenian identity. But why dragons?

Legend has it that Ljubljana was founded by Jason, the hero of Greek mythology who stole the golden fleece from King Aeëtes and then fled aboard the Argo with his comrades, known as the Argonauts, across the Black Sea and up the Danube and the Sava until they reached the Ljubljanica, river flowing through Ljubljana. There they dismantled their ship in order to carry it overland to the Adriatic coast, where they rebuilt the vessel and set sail back to Greece. On their way to the coast, they stopped at a large lake in the marshes near the source of the Ljubljanica, where a dragon was said to dwell, whereupon Jason fought, defeated and killed the monster. From its initial portrayal as a monster, the dragon gradually transformed into a symbolic protector of the city, embodying power, courage and wisdom.

Dragons are today represented all throughout Ljubljana, but the most recognisable ones are surely the four dragons on the Dragon Bridge. The four dragon statues are a masterpiece which has been exciting imagination since the bridge was built. Beyond their charm, the Dragon Bridge is a testament to architectural and engineering excellence. It’s a striking example of Art Nouveau design from the early 20th century. Built between 1900 and 1901, it marked Ljubljana’s first use of reinforced concrete in construction, a pioneering feat for its time. Notably, it was also one of the largest bridges of its kind in Europe!