Discover the Timeless Charm of Škofja Loka

• HelloŽivjo
  [zhee-vyoh]
• GoodbyeNasvidenje
  [nahs-vee-deh-nyeh]
• YesDa
  [dah]
• NoNe
  [neh]
• Please/You're welcomeProsim
  [proh-seem]
• Thank youHvala
  [hvah-lah]
• Excuse me/SorryOprostite
  [oh-proh-stee-teh]
• How are you?Kako ste?
  [kah-koh steh]
• Fine. And you?V redu. In vi?
  [v reh-doo. een vee]
• Do you speak English?Govorite angleško?
  [goh-voh-ree-teh ahn-gleh-shkoh]
• I don't understandNe razumem
  [neh rah-zoo-mehm]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseRad bi videl jedilnik, prosim
  [rahd bee vee-dehl yeh-deel-neek, proh-seem]
• I don't eat meatNe jem mesa
  [neh yehm meh-sah]
• Cheers!Na zdravje!
  [nah zdrah-vyeh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseRad bi plačal, prosim
  [rahd bee plah-chahl, proh-seem]

• Help!Pomoč!
  [poh-mohch]
• Go away!Pojdi stran!
  [poy-dee strahn]
• Call the Police!Pokliči policijo!
  [poh-klee-chee po-lee-tsee-yoh]
• Call a doctor!Pokliči zdravnika!
  [poh-klee-chee zdrahv-nee-kah]
• I'm lostIzgubil sem se
  [eez-goo-beel sehm seh]
• I'm illBolj slab sem
  [boh-lye slob sehm]

• I'd like to buy...Rad bi kupil...
  [rahd bee koo-peel]
• I'm just lookingSamo gledam
  [sah-moh gleh-dahm]
• How much is it?Koliko stane?
  [koh-lee-koh stah-neh]
• That's too expensiveTo je predrago
  [toh yeh preh-drah-goh]
• Can you lower the price?Lahko znižate ceno?
  [lah-koh znee-zah-teh cheh-noh]

• What time is it?Koliko je ura?
  [koh-lee-koh yeh oo-rah]
• It's one o'clockJe ena ura
  [yeh eh-nah oo-rah]
• Half past (10)Pol desetih
  [pohl deh-seh-teeh]
• MorningJutro
  [yoo-troh]
• AfternoonPopoldne
  [poh-pohl-dneh]
• EveningVečer
  [veh-chehr]
• YesterdayVčeraj
  [vcheh-rah-ee]
• TodayDanes
  [dah-nes]
• TomorrowJutri
  [yoo-tree]
• 1Ena
  [eh-nah]
• 2Dva
  [dvah]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Štiri
  [shtee-ree]
• 5Pet
  [peht]
• 6Šest
  [shest]
• 7Sedem
  [seh-dehm]
• 8Osem
  [oh-sehm]
• 9Devet
  [deh-veht]
• 10Deset
  [deh-seht]

• Where's a/the...?Kje je ...?
  [kyeh yeh]
• What's the address?Kateri je naslov?
  [kah-teh-ree yeh nahs-lohv]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mi lahko pokažete (na zemljevidu)?
  [mee lah-koh poh-kah-zheh-teh nah zeh-mlyeh-vee-doo]
• When's the next (bus)?Kdaj je naslednji (avtobus)?
  [kdahy yeh nah-slehd-nee ow-toh-boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Ena vozovnica (do ...)
  [eh-nah voh-zohv-nee-tsah doh]

Škofja Loka, one of the oldest towns in Slovenia, has a rich history dating back to the early Slavic settlement in the 9th century. Known originally as Lonca, the town's strategic location along the trade routes contributed to its early development.

In 973 AD, Emperor Otto II granted the area of Škofja Loka to the Bishops of Freising, who played a significant role in its development. The name Škofja Loka, which means 'Bishop's Meadow,' originated from this period. Under the bishops' rule, the town flourished economically and culturally.

During the Middle Ages, Škofja Loka enjoyed considerable prosperity. The town became a vital trade and craft center, with numerous guilds established. The medieval town layout, with its narrow streets and fortified walls, remains largely preserved today, offering a glimpse into its vibrant past.

A significant event in Škofja Loka's history was the earthquake of 1511, which caused extensive destruction. Despite the devastation, the town was quickly rebuilt, and many of the structures from this period, including the famous Škofja Loka Castle, still stand.

Škofja Loka Castle, originally built in the 12th century, was reconstructed after the 1511 earthquake. The castle has served various purposes over the centuries, including as a bishop's residence and a defensive stronghold. Today, it houses a museum that showcases the town's rich history and cultural heritage.

In 1646, Škofja Loka was struck by a devastating plague, which significantly reduced the population. The town's resilience was demonstrated by its recovery and continued growth in the following years. A plague column in the town square commemorates the victims of this tragic event.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Škofja Loka underwent significant changes, including the construction of new buildings and infrastructure. The introduction of railways in the 19th century further boosted the town's economic development and connected it to broader European trade networks.

Škofja Loka played a role in the resistance movement during World War II. After the war, the town experienced industrial growth and modernization. Despite these changes, Škofja Loka has managed to preserve its historical charm and remains a testament to Slovenia's rich cultural heritage.

Škofja Loka is renowned for its vibrant cultural traditions, including the Škofja Loka Passion Play, one of the oldest preserved plays in Europe, dating back to the early 18th century. The town also hosts various festivals and events that celebrate its historical and cultural legacy.

Škofja Loka is located in the Upper Carniola region of Slovenia, approximately 25 kilometers northwest of Ljubljana. The nearest international airport is Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, which is about a 30-minute drive away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use a shuttle service to reach Škofja Loka. Additionally, there are regular bus services from Ljubljana's main bus station to Škofja Loka, which take around 45 minutes.

Škofja Loka is a compact town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, local bus services operate within the town and connect to nearby villages. Taxis are also available and can be conveniently hailed or booked via phone. Renting a car is an option for those looking to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace. Cycling is popular as well, and bike rentals are available in town.

The official currency in Slovenia is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available in Škofja Loka, so withdrawing cash is convenient. Some places may also accept contactless payments via mobile apps.

Škofja Loka is generally a very safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Škofja Loka. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in town for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers if needed. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A polite nod or a simple 'Dober dan' (Good day) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Škofja Loka like a local, visit the town's farmers' market to buy fresh produce and traditional Slovenian goods. Engage with locals, many of whom are willing to share stories about the town's rich history and culture. Don't miss the medieval festival held annually in June, which offers a glimpse into the town's past with reenactments and traditional crafts. For a unique experience, explore the surrounding countryside with its picturesque hiking and cycling trails.