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Bridge · Škofja Loka, Gorenjska
Capuchin Bridge
Stone arched bridge over the Selška Sora River, built in the mid-14th century, with the statue of Saint John of Nepomuk. It is considered the oldest preserved bridge in Slovenia and one of Škofja Loka’s symbols.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Capuchin Bridge
The Capuchins’ Bridge (Kapucinski most), also called the stone bridge, crosses the Selška Sora River at the north entrance to Škofja Loka’s old town. It was built in the mid-14th century from cut stone with a single semicircular arch. It is considered the best-preserved oldest bridge in Slovenia and one of the oldest monuments of its type in Central Europe. The iron railings are much more recent.
In the middle of the bridge stands a statue of Saint John of Nepomuk, the patron saint of bridges and rivers, commonly found in towns of the former Habsburg Monarchy. The name comes from the Capuchin monastery, which is on the other side of the bridge at Kapucinski trg square.
The monastery was erected between 1707 and 1713, next to the Church of Saint Anne. Its library is one of the country’s most valuable and houses the original manuscript of the Passion of Škofja Loka, a Jurij Dalmatin Bible from 1584 and other old books in Slovene. Visiting the library requires an appointment.
From the nearby new bridge you can see the whole arch, with the river, the houses and the hills in the background.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 15 to 30 minutes for the bridge and the view; allow more time if visiting the Capuchins’ library.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, with low light on the arch and the river. Combine this with a walk through the old town.
How to get there
From Mestni trg square, walk north to the Selška Sora River; it takes only a few minutes. The bridge is for pedestrians only.
Tip
To photograph the full arch, go to the new bridge right beside it. If you want to see the Capuchins’ library, check with the tourist information center about guided visits.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Capuchin Bridge
How old is Škofja Loka’s Capuchins’ Bridge?
It was built in the mid-14th century and is considered the oldest preserved bridge in Slovenia.
Who is the statue in the middle of the bridge?
It is Saint John of Nepomuk, protector of bridges and rivers, common in towns that were part of the Habsburg Monarchy.
Can you visit the Capuchins’ library?
Yes, by appointment. It houses the original manuscript of the Passion of Škofja Loka and other old books. Check with the tourist information centre.