Ljubljana Puppet Theatre

The puppet theatre of Ljubljana

The Ljubljana audio-guided tour points out to you, to the left of the funicular, a fine building: the Lutkovno gledališče, the true home of the Slovenian puppet. It is one of the high places of the popular and family culture of the capital.

More than seventy years of tradition

Founded in 1948 in the building of the former theatre of Milan Klemenčič, considered the father of the Slovenian puppet, the theatre has perpetuated for more than seventy years a very living tradition. Shows for children and adults are still performed there, and the stage has seen the birth of successes that have become cult, such as The Little Sleepy Star or adaptations of Pinocchio. It is a place where the art of the puppet is passed on and reinvented from generation to generation.

What there is to see

Beyond its shows, the theatre hosts two biennial puppet festivals, including a great international festival that attracts artists from around the world. The building, located at the foot of the castle hill, is an ideal stop for families. Whether you attend a performance or simply admire its façade, it is a fine discovery of the cultural richness of Ljubljana.

Practical information

The puppet theatre, the Lutkovno gledališče, is at the foot of the castle hill, near the funicular, in Ljubljana. The hall welcomes the public according to its programme; access to performances follows its own conditions and times. The façade can be contemplated freely from the street.

When was the puppet theatre founded?

In 1948, in the building of the former theatre of Milan Klemenčič, the father of the Slovenian puppet.

What events does the theatre host?

Shows for children and adults, as well as two biennial puppet festivals, including a great international festival.