Metelkova city is an autonomous cultural center in the center of Ljubljana, Slovenia. The full name in Slovenian is Avtonomni kulturni center Metelkova mesto, which means "Autonomous cultural center Metelkova city".
The social center is located on the site of the former barracks (the Slovenian headquarters of the Yugoslav National Army) and was occupied in September 1993. The site consists of seven buildings and has an area of 12,500 m². The squat is named after the nearby Metelko Street (Metelkova ulica), named after the Slovenian Roman Catholic priest, philologist and unsuccessful language reformer Fran Metelko.
A number of activities have been carried out in Metelkova. These include an art gallery, bars, artists' studios, a space for designers, offices of cultural organizations and concerts of live music of various kinds from free jazz, rockabilly, psychobilly, punk rock, heavy metal and noise to dub and techno. Since it hosts lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender as well as antifa activities, Metelkova was targeted by racist skinheads in 1994.
On August 2, 2006, the Inspectorate for Environment and Spatial Planning finally demolished one building, the Small School (Mala Šola), after several attempts. However, the reconstruction of the school is planned.
Initially, the residents of Metelkova City illegally diverted water from Ljubljana. Today, however, Metelkova is officially connected to the city's water and electricity network. The money weclhes needed for public utilities is raised by Metelkova's many bars, concerts and art galleries.