Križevniška ulica, previously known as Ribiška, is a street with a rich history and cultural heritage. It is one of the oldest streets in Ljubljana, and it has seen the presence of several notable figures and organizations throughout its history. The Knights Templar, a medieval Christian military order, had a stronghold in Križevniška ulica between 1167 and 1200. The Spanheim noble family, who established the administrative center of their estates in the 12th century, also founded the monastic church of Mary, Help of Christians and a monastic house with a hospital and school for the education of poor children.
In recent years, the city of Ljubljana has been working to preserve the cultural significance of Križevniška ulica. As part of a larger urban intervention and greening project, the city has recognized the important figures who have contributed to the street's creative legacy. To commemorate these individuals, small artistic installations have been erected along the street, including explanatory signs, greenery, flowers, and benches for relaxation and socializing. The city has provided start-up funding for the project, and local artists have also contributed to the project.
Križevniška ulica has become a cultural hub in Ljubljana, with several events and activities taking place throughout the year. In August, a cultural quarter was opened, featuring a performance entitled "I, after whom Ljubljana is named," which paid homage to poet Tomaž Šalamun. This cultural quarter has also hosted creative workshops, poetry readings, and concerts. In October, a medieval day in Ljubljana is planned, and a social evening for all those who create on Križevniška is also in the works.
In the future, the cultural quarter is expected to include all the cultural and scientific institutions operating in the area up to Dvorni trg, including the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SAZU) and the City Museum. Other cultural institutions, such as the Sculpture Association, the Photon Gallery, and TipoRenesansa Printing Workshop, have also participated in the project. Additionally, local hospitality providers, such as Shamballa restaurant, Pod skalco bar, and Vitez restaurant, are also part of the cultural quarter.
Many artists and intellectuals have lived and created on Križevniška ulica, including composers Urban Koder and Aldo Kumar. The street has also been home to notable cultural figures, such as poet Srečko Kosovel, playwright Matej Bor, and director Ciril Debevec. The family of lawyer and patron Blaž Crobath also lived on the street, and his "Ljubljana salon" was a meeting point for Slovene and Slavic intellectuals.