WHERE ARE WE

It's 12 km far from the centre of the capital Ljubljana, where there is the confluence of the river Sava and the Sora at the south – east edge of the Sorica field. Medvode lies between the two rivers, that's why it got that name (Medvode – between waters). It's also surrounded by nice peaks and the Alps at the back.

 

Confluence of the river Sava and Sora

 

 

MEDVODE IN THE PAST

The region of the present Medvode with it's surroundings was already settled in the prehistory. There are two proofs: the find of a socketed axe from the Bronze Age at the construction of hydro – electric power station on the river Sava; the prehistorical ancient fort at Osolnik.

Hydro – electric power station on the river Sava and lake Zbilje

 

The graves at the railway under Svetje and the traces of Roman settlement in Rakovnik showed the presence of the settling in the Roman time. Medvode was first mentioned in the document of the emperor Oton 3rd in 989 by historical sources. Later on, the territory was mentioned only as an important traffic connection with Primorska (the Litoral), Koroška (Carinthia) and Gorenjska (Upper Carniola) – through the valley of the river Ločnica and Mavelščica and with Ljubljana – through the valley of the river Sava. In the 19th century when the new railway was built Medvode became an important traffic crossroads.

 

 

The Goričane Castle

 

Besides the Goričane castle, historical sources mention the castle of Hertenberg knights at Jeterbenk and a supposed castle in the neighbouring Sora. There are more underground caves above the moor of the Babno field. There you can see the rise of the river Mavelščica. The caves were used as hiding places for people attacked by Turkish invasion.

 

Medvode in the past

 

TODAY

The city has got a good connection with Kranj, Škofja Loka and Ljubljana so the industry is developed too (Color, Donit, The factory of cellulose and The factory of paper). The places aroud Medvode have become interesting for many people who want to enjoy in fresh air and good view (Polhograjski Dolomiti: Osolnik, Govejek, Polhograjska grmada, Tošč and Jeterbenk; Šmarna gora; the old castle in Smlednik).

 

Lake Zbilje

 

Lake Zbilje is an attraction for those who like boating, fishing or just watching the nice scenery. The fish fans can catch fish also in the Sora or the Sava. In winter time cross-country skiing is also possible on the settled routes. The cultural tradition of Medvode is shown by performing plays in the open air.

 

The Medvode Commune and Public Library

 

Pictures from archives of Medvode Commune