In celebration of the 2000th anniversary of Emona, Ljubljana Tourism offers thematic guided tours of Emona, where visitors can walk the streets of Ljubljana under expert guidance and discover its history. Visitors are welcomed by guides wearing a Roman attire, who first provide the basic information on the Roman clothing culture. Afterwards, it is time for the visitors to put on their Roman clothes and transform themselves into real citizens of Emona. In the company of a Roman legionary, they embark on a journey to discover the attractions of Roman Emona. They first visit iEmona, where they get information on the urban design of Emona and how the ancient city looked like. They can admire the northern gate, walk past the Roman fountain and remnants of the city wall, and discover other secrets of Emona. The tour continues to the City Museum of Ljubljana, which displays the remains of a Roman road and the ancient sewage system.

In order to become an actual citizen of Emona, one has to be acquainted with the living culture and everyday life in that period, which is why visitors are guided to the Emonian House archaeological park. The tour continues to Mirje with a well-preserved southern side of Emona city wall, which was partially upgraded by Jože Plečnik. You will be even more enchanted by Emona, once you see a presentation of the everyday life prepared by the Ana Monroe theatre. Maybe the actors will invite you to participate in one of the ceremonies presented by them.

Mulsum and dulcia domestica
You will also have the opportunity to visit the Roman city centre, which is located in the area of the former Emona forum, an administrative centre of the city, which was thriving at the time. It was a place where the citizens of Emona could shop, socialize and attend school. This is followed by the most enjoyable part of the tour and the Roman Emona experience - a visit to a nearby restaurant, where you can explore the savour of mulsum and taste dulcia domestica. It is an ancient Roman housemade dessert consisting of dates stuffed with honey, which is served warm. Mulsum or "sweet potion" is wine, sweetened with honey that goes well with dates.

A truly genuine experience is guaranteed by the fact that drinks and desserts are served in replicas of clay vessels that were found in the area of Emona. The next stop of the tour is the Early Christian Centre archaeological park, featuring a well-preserved complex of the Christian temple with a baptistery and mosaics. From here, visitors are directed back to Kongresni trg and the statue of the Citizen of Emona. Turizem Ljubljana also offers a somewhat different "Experience of the Roman Emona". Would you like to experience an evening tour of the streets, squares, and houses and unveil the history of Ljubljana? Join us on our torch-lit evening tour. You will receive torches at the Tourist Information Centre, which will illuminate your way and offer you an unforgettable experience. And do not be surprised if you will be greeted by an Emona citizen from some dark alley: "Salvete, grati nobis Emonam venitis" (Hello and welcome to Emona).

Turizem Ljubljana
Turizem Ljubljana said that interest in the tour of the Roman Emona has been increasing and that it grew significantly compared to last year when the tours were introduced. The largest share of visitors is represented by locals, as well as school groups in the spring and autumn. During the summer months, a lot of tourist groups from abroad visit Ljubljana, eager to explore the Roman city of Emona. The visitors are excited that the guides are dressed in a Roman attire, that the guide introduces himself in a Roman way and that they get an impression of having travelled back in time. They also enjoy the presence of a Roman legionary and tasting of wines and desserts. In short, this is a unique tour which pleasantly surprises the visitors. Ljubljana Tourism kindly invites you to join one of their exciting guided tours. More on the program related to the celebration of the 2000th anniversary of Emona is available at visitljubljana.com.

Danila Golob, SINFO