A cheerful, picturesque and unique city – the smallest capital in the world – Ljubljana rises on the banks of the Ljubljanica River, straight out of a fairytale. A town of enchanting paved streets, little cafés, historical churches and a palace overlooking it all atop a hill, this small and endearing city in Slovenia is a treasure-trove of beauty, charm, and unique experiences.
With protected external heritage, the building of the Cubo hotel in Ljubljana has been preserved in its original form. The architectural transformation of the interior of this multiple apartment house into a modern hotel in 2011 was used as an opportunity to reintroduce its irresistible charm to the public.
Hotel Cubo opened its doors in 2011 and since then it has been one of the best-rated hotels in Ljubljana and throughout the country. The perfect starting point to fall in love with the heart of Slovenia and it was from my arrival at this unique hotel that I fell in love with the city.
Through the curved window of my suite I glimpse the castle of the city, resplendent on a hill in the old town, a postcard view.
The beautiful building has a fascinating history: The old Luckmann dynasty owned the property at the corner of Slovenska Street since 1786. Dr. Fritz Luckmann – a well-known lawyer and board member of the Ljubljana Union brewery – inherited the property after the death of his father. In 1914 he married Linda Kosler, daughter of Peter Kosler, the founder of Union Brewery, and in 1931, he was offered compensation for demolishing the old building by the streetcar that was creating a traffic jam in the corner in front of the building. He built the new one, leaving more space for additional tram rails.
The following year, in 1932, the new building was completed; its famous façade and exterior remain the same until today. After World War II, the building was home to a ballet school, the offices of one of the most popular magazines of the time, the exam center for the DMV of Ljubljana, a famous Miška café, and an endless list of places that have left their legacy.
The Cubo hotel is housed in a historic building protected by the Institute for the Protection of the Cultural Heritage of Slovenia, art deco style from the 1930s and completely renovated. Personalized and cozy, it retains its charm while being reinforced by modern design and functionality. From its restaurant in high floor all of Ljubljana’s heart stretches before us, the castle towering over the city, dazzling under the spring sun – as inviting and charismatic as the city itself.
