Former Prison Hostel

Hostel Celica is a place with a fascinating story and concept. The building that served as a military prison for more than 100 years is now a modern and lively hostel with a strong artistic touch. The walls of the former prison used to divide, but today they bring people from all over the world together in a positive and youthful atmosphere. Several artists gave a new life to the building and turned it into a hostel in which every corner tells a story. The main attraction of Hostel Celica are its prison cells, now uniquely transformed into artistic rooms.

We have a feeling you would like to be one of our prisoners…

Guided tours

Hostel Celica is full of stories, artistic installations, and historical details. It is so unique that entire novels could be written about it. But do not worry, you will not need to read them. Join us instead for an engaging guided tour.
The tour begins with a walk through Metelkova, as the history of AKC Metelkova is closely connected to the history of Hostel Celica. You will learn about the historical context of Celica’s transformation from a prison into an artistic hostel, explore its different spaces, and discover how they have changed over time. You will also step inside the former prison cells and hear the unique stories behind them.
Hostel guests can join the guided tour free of charge every day at 1pm. With prior arrangement, guided tours are also available for external visitors and groups, including school groups.

From prison to hostel

1882: Prison

The Austro-Hungarian army built its army barracks at Metelkova. The building of Hostel Celica was used as a prison for more than a hundred years.

1991: Abandoned army barracks

The Yugoslav People’s Army (JNA) left the newly independent Slovenia. The Network for Metelkova initiative (“Mreža za Metelkovo” - a collective of artists) wanted to formally acquire the vacant army barracks and to transform it into a multicultural centre.

1993: Artist's fight

The Network for Metelkova tried to obtain the proper paperwork for the use of the empty spaces, but with no success. Two years later, in 1993, the city authorities began demolishing the former army barracks, which prompted the artists to illegally occupy the spaces to prevent the demolition. The city authorities tried to evict them by turning off the water and electrical supply, but the artists’ determination was unmatchable.

2001: Art prevails

In 2001, after almost 10 years of creative planning, renovation and transformation of the former prison into a youth hostel, the project finally received financial support and the green light from the authorities. More than 80 artists from all over the world took part in the renovation.

2003: Birth of Hostel Celica

The first guests spent their night in Hostel Celica in July 2003.

2006: #1 Hippest hostel

Lonely Planet selects Hostel Celica as the No.1 Hippest Hostel in the world.

2018: Renovation of Hostel Celica

After thorough renovation works, Hostel Celica reopened its doors in July 2018.

Art hostel

Hostel Celica is an exceptional example of how art can transform an object with a bleak history into a space of open possibilities and positive vibrations. Exciting artists from all over the world have completely transformed each cell. In their own unique ways they infused them with symbols of freedom, hope and joy of life.

The result: each cell is a work of art, and a night spent in any one of them an experience you will never forget.

Cells and rooms

Cultural vibe

Hostel Celica is more than just a hostel. The hostel gallery Srečišče offers new art exhibitions by renowned artists each month with no admission fee. Two former solitary confinement cells in the basement are now a small museum that will help you understand the history of the building. On the first floor, directly above the solitary confinement cells, is the Point of Peace, a room that conveys a message of openness and acceptance. The Point of Peace is intended for all travellers who want to embark on a spiritual journey or just need some time to themselves.

Hostel Celica also offers weekly cultural and music events, which attract numerous locals.

Events

Art street

Hostel Celica has cool neighbours. It is located only a couple of metres away from a former artist squat, now known as Metelkova Mesto, an autonomous social and cultural centre in Ljubljana. If you are into wicked good art, concerts of alternative bands and graffiti, Metelkova will be right up your alley.

You simply have to experience one of the main attractions in the city.