The sports complex in Bežigrad, built between the two World Wars according to architect Jože Plečnik’s plans for the Orel physical education organisation, is one of Ljubljana’s iconic venues. Since its closure almost a decade ago, only its monumental entrance colonnade remains open to the public, while most of the sports complex is enclosed by a construction fence that is increasingly overgrown with greenery. In the meantime, it has become part of the cultural heritage at risk of being lost through neglect. The pocketbook by Dr Tina Potočnik – an art historian, researcher, and conservator from the Institute for the Protection of Cultural Heritage of Slovenia – does not offer a solution to this complex issue, as that would be beyond its purpose. Instead, it thoroughly explores the ideas that led to the creation and authentic architectural design of the complex, as well as the challenges encountered during its lengthy construction in a previously undeveloped part of the city. It also emphasises the appreciation of its under-exposed heritage aspects, which position it among the key national monuments.
paperback 21 × 13 cm 84 pages
Keywords
20th century | architecture | cultural heritage | history | Ljubljana | Orel (organization) | Plečnik, Jože | sport | sports clubs | stadiums