Congress Square, Central square in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Congress Square is the central plaza of Ljubljana, where the Baroque Ursuline Church, the Casino Building, and the University of Ljubljana rectorate stand along its edges. The space features Star Park with intersecting pathways that create a structured layout among the surrounding historic buildings.

The square was laid out in 1821 on the site of a Capuchin monastery abolished in 1809 under Emperor Joseph II, and it took its name from the Congress of Ljubljana held that year. In 1918 independence from Austria-Hungary was proclaimed here, and in 1988 the first free mass demonstration demanded the release of four Slovene journalists. It was renamed Revolution Square in 1945 and Liberation Square in 1974 before reverting to Congress Square in 1990.

The name comes from the Congress of Ljubljana, a gathering of the Holy Alliance held in the city in 1821. The square's park is called Star Park because its paths radiate in a star shape, a layout introduced by the French. A Biedermeier bandstand from the 1830s still stands in the park.

The square is easily accessible on foot and sits near shops, restaurants, and other downtown attractions. The surrounding streets are well laid out, making it simple to find your way around and connect to other parts of the city.

A former U.S. President delivered remarks here in 1999 and recited verses from the Slovenian national anthem. This moment remains a notable event in the square's story.