Alternative Ljubljana

The alternative culture in Ljubljana boasts a rich tradition. Avant-garde artists have challenged established cultural patterns already in 1920s and 1930s. In the 1980s, many artists, including a group of artists around the Škuc Gallery and the IRWIN and Laibach groups, brought new creative energies to the scene.

The story of the famous Metelkova started in 1993 with the occupation of former military barracks. Today, alternative practices also take place at the old Rog Factory.

Kino Šiška is the centre for urban culture, which annually hosts more than 300 events. Fresh artistic concepts, such as the DobraVaga sales gallery or Young Lions Festival, are thriving at historic locations, such as the Central Market and the Old Power Station.

Among interesting festivals, it is worth mentioning the world music festival Druga Godba, the City of Women (Mesto žensk) that challenges established definitions of gender, and the oldest Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in Europe.

The French street artist Invader has also left his mark on Ljubljana. He is world-famous for his small ceramic tile mosaics inspired by characters from the retro game Space Invaders. His works can be found in more than 80 cities around the world, from Paris to Tokyo. The mosaics are hidden in unexpected locations across the city, making the search for Invader’s pieces a true urban adventure.