Admiral Lord Nelson at Hotel Slon

At the invitation of the British Ambassador HE Tiffany Sadler, Hotel Slon and the Nelson Society, an intimate ceremony and reception took place on Sept 7th 2023, to commemorate Admiral Lord Nelson's visit to Slovenia and his stay in Ljubljana's only hotel at the time (Hotel Slon).

This included the unveiling of a new prominent plaque in the lobby of Hotel Slon, commemorating the visit od one of the greatest naval commanders in history.

Over two hundred and twenty-two years ago, in August 1800, Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson travelled through Slovenia, accompanied by his great love Lady Hamilton and a wider delegation. During their travels, they visited Ljubljana – and stayed at the foremost hostelry in town, known today as the Hotel Slon. 

Park of Military History Pivka prepared an exhibition of Nelson's life, journey through Slovenia and the legendary Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, in which Nelson led Britain to victory over a combined French and Spanish fleet, but was shot and died during the battle.

The occasion was moderated by the esteemed Mr. Keith Miles, OBE, who holds the honorary presidency of The British Slovene Society.

Flanking the plaque, a Navy Ceremonial Guard stood in dignified presence as the Slovenian and British National Anthems were rendered by the Slovenian Armed Forces Military Band - Brass Quintet.

In a solemn moment of unity, the plaque was unveiled by Brigadier General Milan Žurman and British Ambassador to Slovenia HE Tiffany Sadler, marking a poignant and harmonious milestone.

What this occasion represents for Hotel Slon could be captivated in the words of our General Manager Mr. Gregor Jamnik:

"The commemoration of Admiral Lord Nelson's esteemed visit to Hotel Slon fills me with pride and joy. The plaque honouring this extraordinary event for our property as well as for Ljubljana, the then capital of Carniola, represents a turning point in the centuries-old history of Hotel Slon and symbolizes the harmonious bond between Slovenia and the United Kingdom."