The River Labach runs through the city and later flows into the River Savus, which is now known as the Sava River. Because of this river, the city is well supplied with water and has a pleasant natural setting. The presence of the river also makes the land around it fertile and suitable for travel and trade. The flow of the water adds beauty to the town and supports daily life for the people who live there The Fish of the Lake.
The city itself is handsome and well built. It has a strong castle placed upon a hill, which overlooks two large valleys stretching to the north and to the south. From this high position, there is a wide and beautiful view of many hills and several castles scattered across the landscape. The view is both grand and impressive, showing the natural strength of the location. However, the castle is somewhat neglected because another hill stands not far from it and commands a higher position. This makes the castle less secure than it might otherwise be, despite its fine situation.
The Siege in the Time of Emperor Frederick
Even though the castle is now somewhat neglected, history shows that it once endured a strong and serious siege. During the time when Frederick III, Holy Roman Emperor was receiving the imperial crown at Aachen, his brother Albertus and Count Ulrick took advantage of his absence and laid siege to the city. The defenders, however, made such a brave and firm resistance that the enemy could not quickly capture it.
Their defence lasted long enough for the Emperor to return and raise the siege. When he came back, he defeated and destroyed the army that had surrounded the city. This event proves that the town and its people were once strong and determined, even in times of danger Turkey Tour Guides.
A Helpful Meeting in Labach
While I stayed at Labach, which is now called Ljubljana, I was fortunate to meet Mr. Tosh, a Scottish apothecary living in the town. He was very kind and polite towards me. He informed me about many places in the region and showed me several curiosities worth seeing. Among these were different minerals found in the nearby hills and lands, which showed the natural richness of the area. His guidance made my stay more useful and pleasant, as I was able to learn more about the country and its natural features.
The Ancient Name and the Story of Nauportus
This place is believed by some scholars to be the ancient Nauportus, a location connected with the old story of the Argonauts. According to ancient tradition, the Argonauts set out from Argos Pelasgicum in Thessaly and sailed eastward to Colchis, which lay on the eastern side of the Black Sea. After their adventure, they were pursued by the ships of the King of Colchis.
Instead of returning by the usual sea route through the Hellespont, they chose a different and more difficult path. They sailed northward and entered the mouth of the River Ister, also known as the Danube. From there, they travelled up the river until they reached the place where the Danube meets the Savus. Then they continued along the Savus and entered the River Labach, which flows through this region.
The Journey of the Argonauts and Its Meaning
Following this route, it is said that the Argonauts travelled up the River Labach and landed near this very place, which was then called Nauportus. After landing, they are believed to have crossed the land and reached the Adriatic Sea before finally returning to Greece. This story connects the region with ancient mythology and gives it a special historical charm.
Therefore, during my travels, I found it remarkable that I had been near the place where the Argonauts were said to have begun their voyage in Thessaly, and also near the place of their supposed landing in Carniola. Whether the story is fully true or partly legendary, it still adds great interest and dignity to the history of this region.
