Ljubljana Town Hall, or Mestna hiša, has served as the seat of the city government since the 15th century. The first Gothic building was completed in 1484 and was rebuilt in the early 18th century to the Baroque design of the architect Gregor Maček, finished in 1718, with later additions in the 19th century. Its interior courtyard, called the atrium, contains a statue of Hercules and arcades, and visitors can walk in free of charge during office hours. In front stands the Robba Fountain, also called the Fountain of the Three Carniolan Rivers, made in 1751 by the sculptor Francesco Robba and inspired by Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers in Rome. The original is now kept in the National Gallery, while a copy has stood on Mestni trg since 2006. The square is the centre of the Old Town and leads to the Cobblers' Bridge, the Triple Bridge and Stari trg. Cafes line the square, and the area is often busy with markets and events.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Atrium open during office hours on weekdays; square open at all times |
| Address | Mestni trg 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia |
Why it matters
The Town Hall has housed the city's government since the 15th century and the Robba Fountain in front, inspired by Bernini, symbolises the three rivers of Carniola.
Location
Mestni trg 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
46.0498, 14.5069 View on map
Highlights
- Baroque Town Hall of 1718 with Gothic origins from 1484
- Robba Fountain of 1751, inspired by Bernini
- Atrium with a statue of Hercules
- Centre of the Old Town on Mestni trg
- Original fountain preserved in the National Gallery
Tips for visiting
- Walk into the atrium during office hours; entry is free.
- Look for the copy of the fountain in front of the building.
- Visit the original fountain at the National Gallery.
- Combine with the Cobblers' Bridge and Stari trg.
- Check events on the square, which can restrict access.
When to visit
Mornings are quietest; events on the square create crowds.
Accessibility
The atrium is level, and the square is paved and accessible.
Frequently asked questions
Who made the Robba Fountain?
The sculptor Francesco Robba created it in 1751, inspired by Bernini's fountain in Rome.
Is the original in the square?
No, a copy stands on Mestni trg and the original is in the National Gallery.
Can visitors enter the Town Hall?
Yes, the atrium is open to visitors during office hours.
When was the Town Hall built?
A Gothic building of 1484 was rebuilt in the Baroque style, finished in 1718.