The Butchers' Bridge

1 | Mesarski Most (Butcher’s Bridge) is a pedestrian bridge completed in 2010 that spans the Ljubljanica River, linking Ljubljana’s Central Market to the Petkovškovo embankment. Its modern steel and glass design is complemented by dramatic bronze sculptures by Jakov Brdar. 2 | The bridge is known locally as Ljubljana’s "Love Bridge". Honestly, I’m not a big fan of the habit of damaging public spaces with padlocks. However, in this case, it’s fairly photogenic, and if the city is okay with it, I accept it. 3 | The bridge is pedestrian-only, and you’ll likely come across it while walking around Ljubljana.

The Butcher's Bridge is Ljubljana's version of a love bridge, complete with countless padlocks and a slick glass walkway (watch your step when it rains!). But don’t expect Cupid statues—here you'll find provocative bronze sculptures, including a man casually holding his intestines. Well, it is the Butcher's Bridge, after all! Historically, this spot was part of the medieval meat market, and its slightly macabre flair is part of the charm. Great for photos, a quick stop, or just soaking in the city’s quirky vibe. :)

I feel the locks on bridges are so unoriginal, they’re in like every country now! How do people decide where they want to leave their love locks?! Haha The glass part of the bridge is really cool though

It’s nice to put on padlocks on the bridge, but I think the frogs should be spared from getting locked

All of the bridges in Central Ljubljana are different. This one has metal railings and lots of locks attached to it. It offers a nice view over the river and you can buy a ticket for the boat ride from the middle of the bridge

Nice bridge with part glass floor and holds the tradition of people hanging locks all over it. Super view of the river and Ljubljana Old Town

Despite its name, the bridge is a modern pedestrian-only bridge that combines a romantic atmosphere with contemporary art installations. It spans the Ljubljanica River, connecting Vodnik Square with Petkovškovo nabrežje. Originally designed in the 1930s by Jože Plečnik, the bridge remained unbuilt for decades and was eventually completed in 2010 in a modern style—not in Plečnik’s design, but as a realization of his unfulfilled vision in a contemporary form. The name comes from the former slaughterhouse and butcher shops that once stood nearby. Today, the bridge is best known as a romantic spot, where couples leave padlocks on the railings to symbolize their love.

Mesarski Most is one of those little gems in Ljubljana that might not get as much attention as some of the bigger landmarks, but it’s definitely worth a visit. It’s a small, charming bridge that crosses the Ljubljanica River, and what makes it special are the animal sculptures on the railings—there’s something quirky about them that gives the bridge a fun, unique character. We toured this bridge on our city tour, and it’s definitely less busy than some of the other bridges. Its uniqueness and charm also come from the hundreds to thousands of locks attached to the bridge by both tourists and locals, adding a personal touch to the structure.