Let’s learn about Slovenia #12 – Kranj

Kranj is the fourth-largest city in Slovenia, with a population of 37,373 (2015). It is located approximately 20 kilometres (12 miles) northwest of Ljubljana. The centre of the City Municipality of Kranj and of the traditional region of Upper Carniola (northwestern Slovenia) is a mainly industrial city with significant electronics and rubber industries.

The St. Cantianus and Companions Parish Church (Župnijska cerkev sv. Kancijana in tovarišev) in Kranj  is the largest church in Kranj and also the seat of the Kranj Parish and Deaconates.[10] It was built in the 14th century, and measures 442 cubic metres (15,600 cu ft). Construction was commissioned by the counts of Kranj.

Kieselstein Castle was built in the mid-16th century by Baron Johann Jakob Khisl. Later owners included the families of Moscon, Ravbar, Apfaltrer, Auersperg, and Pagliaruzzi. The building was renovated in 1952 by the architect Jože Plečnik in his late period. The castle garden is currently used as a concert setting.

The city is known for its sports facilities, including soccer, tennis and basketball, as well as the biggest aquatic centre in the country, which hosted the 2003 Men’s European Water Polo Championship (along with Ljubljana, hosting the women’s competition). The annual Teden Mladih (Youth Week) festival and Carniola Festival are very popular.