Slovenia, Bled

Bled is a municipality (population 10,899) in northwestern Slovenia in the region of Upper Carniola. The area is a popular tourist destination.

History

It was first mentioned on April 10, 1004, when it was awarded by Emperor Henry II to Bishop Albuin of Brixen. It became an independent municipality in 1996.

Tourism

Bled is famous for the glacial Lake Bled, which makes it a major tourist attraction. Perched on a rock overlooking the lake is the iconic Bled Castle. Arnold Rikli from Switzerland contributed significantly to the development of Bled as a health resort in the 2nd half of the 19th century.

A small island in the middle of the lake is home to a church; visitors frequently ring its bell for good luck. Human traces from prehistory have been found on the island.