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INTRODUCTION The topic of the research is Krakovo, a small and little known part of the Ljubljana city centre, with its exceptional image of rural settlement and elongated gardens. Some researchers point out that the area is arguably one of the oldest medieval suburbs still remaining in its original shape and form. However, since there is very little written material concerning this part of the city, its origins as well as urban and architectural concepts are little known. The aim of the research work is to find reasons for an area, positioned in the centre of the capital city, to have suburbial rural urban form. It is important to reveal the historical, urban and architectural characteristic of the settlement. The information and observations collected during the work are compared and contrasted with urban and architectural styles as they changed during different time periods. The evaluation of Krakovo.s qualities is based on the results of these comparisons. Methods used during the work include: searching old notes, books, magazines and descriptions in Slovene archives; interviewing researchers and older residents; making photo documentation, sketches and drawings on the site. In order to obtain current information questionnaires were used. Based on selected material current and past conditions are compared, as well as other comparisons are made . including times and styles. Collected new information is put together with existing one, evaluated and predictions and conclusions for the future are made. These methods were helpful in obtaining the clearer image of the above mentioned characteristics of the area and setting some hypothesises. It is important to stress, that there are no books or written materials regarding the area. This research work is therefore the only research material available as a whole, and is hoped to be helpful for city authorities and cultural heritage institution. It has already helped to open a discussion about the future of the area occupying the most dense city centre, therefore being part of great economical interest. There is considerable amount of discussion and great number of arguments for and against protecting the area and preserving its original medieval form. It is very attractive, with lots of empty non-built space; however, some people are quick to point out that narrow medieval streets and small buildings cannot »follow« contemporary way of living. During the work a number of unique findings were made. The most important ones were: a relief of »Mother of Christ« from 16th century, two plague signs unique for Slovenia and information about a chapel on an island which existed in 16th century on the river. |