Fodor's Expert Review National and University Library

Built from 1936 to 1941, the National Library is architect Jože Plečnik's secular masterpiece. The external facades present a modernist version of an Italian renaissance palazzo, using brick, stone, and even archaeological remains from excavations around Ljubljana. However, these are not arranged in registers as in a traditional palazzo, but rather are scattered haphazardly over the entire exterior, creating a dynamic and three-dimensional look that makes the massive building seem light and airy. Inside, there is a beautiful colonnaded black marble staircase and a reading room with huge windows at either end to let in light. The austere furniture in the reading room was also designed by Plečnik. Don't miss the beautiful horsehead door handles on the main entrance.