This episode explores the architectural legacy of Jože Plečnik beyond Ljubljana and presents him as Slovenia’s defining architect and a creator of a distinct national architectural language.
Listeners are guided on day trips and longer journeys across Slovenia to discover Plečnik’s lesser-known works. The main focus is Kamnik, including the Chapel of the Holy Sepulcher in the Franciscan Church, described as a complete, immersive work of sacred art rich in symbolism, materials, light and craftsmanship. Other works in and around Kamnik include bridges, baptisteries, church renovations, private interiors, and the Royal Hunting Lodge at Kamniška Bistrica.
The episode then highlights Plečnik’s sensitivity to place in other regions: the Rosary Steps and church renovations in Kranj; a gothic-modern church renovation near Tolmin; the Church of the Holy Spirit in Bogojina in Prekmurje, which blends monumental form with local craft and tradition; funerary architecture in Ljutomer; and unrealised but influential plans in Bled, including the origins of today’s Belvedere Pavilion.
Throughout, the episode emphasises Plečnik’s use of local materials, artisans, symbolism and reuse of existing structures, presenting his architecture as spiritual, human-scaled and deeply rooted in landscape and culture.
Explore Slovenia through Plečnik’s works outside the capital, one journey at a time!
Discover the monumental legacy of Jože Plečnik
You may also wish to listen to another podcast episode dedicated to Plečnik, featuring a conversation with Ana Porok of the Plečnik House Museum and Peter Krečič, former director of the Architecture Museum of Ljubljana.
Feel Slovenia the Podcast is brought to you by the Slovenian Tourist Board and hosted by Dr Noah Charney.
Sound Production: Urska Charney
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