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The imposing Bratislava Castle is the most conspicuous landmark in the town of Bratislava. It stands on an isolated rocky hill above the town, and had been built and rebuilt continuously throughout the 9th-18th centuries.

The site of the castle has been of strategic importance for most of the area's history. It is located roughly in the center of Europe. Still, more importantly, it is along the route between the Carpathians and the Alps at a convenient crossing point of the river Danube.

The hill and surrounding area have hosted settlements since before the early Iron Age. Evidence suggests that the first settlements here started around 3,500 BC. In those early centuries, the hill was used as an acropolis for the surrounding town.

Archeological evidence shows a history of Celt and Roman occupation through 500 AD. The current structure was begun in the 10th century but worked lagged over the years. As the need for defense increased for the Kingdom of Hungary, the castle was added on to.

The Kingdom was abolished in 1781, and the castle was more or less dismantled and abandoned. The structures were used as a seminary and military barracks for some time during the 19th century. By the middle part of the 20th century, the castle was in ruins.

A massive restoration effort was begun in 1957 and completed in 1968. The 1968 Federation Law, which formed the Czech Socialist Republic and the Slovak Socialist Republic, was signed in the castle. Many years later, the constitution of now independent Slovakia was also signed in the castle's Knights Hall.

The castle is beautifully restored and houses exhibitions from the Slovak National Museum. Even if you choose not to visit the museum and interior rooms, walking around the castle grounds and enjoying the views of the city and the Danube is not to be missed.

In the town's early history, worshipping was done at the Bratislava Castle. But in the early 13th century, the King of Hungary requested that the pope allow him to relocate the church. So, as the town grew, the construction of a Gothic cathedral began in 1311.

It wasn't completed until 1452 due to financial difficulties and the Hussite Wars. Additions were made in the 18th and 19th centuries, including the Baroque Chapel of Saint John the Merciful.

The present appearance of the building has been steady since 1877 when significant restoration efforts were completed after earthquakes, fires, and war had damaged the cathedral.

The cathedral is most famous as the coronation church for the Kingdom of Hungary from 1563 onward. Eleven kings and queens and eight of their consorts were coronated in the building.

In recognition of this honor, the cathedral tower is topped with a replica of the Crown of Saint Stephen. This replica of the Holy Crown of Hungary weighs 330 pounds (150 kilograms) and is gold-plated.

The cathedral was built over a cemetery and lay atop an unknown amount of catacombs and crypts. The building is designated a national cultural monument, but it is, unfortunately, decaying due to vibrations from the traffic passing on the Novy Most bridge.

The Palace of Erd枚dy was built in 1770 by Mathew Walch. The building originally comprised four houses, which were initially occupied by Count George Leopold Erd枚dy, the head of the Hungarian Royal Chamber, and his family. The Erd枚dy family were decedents of Hungarian nobility with their genealogical lines dating back as far as the 14th century.

The grand structure was converted during the 19th century into a palace for the son of Count George Leopold Erd枚dy, Jan Nepomuk Erd枚dy. Originally, the building was erected with three floors and a fourth floor was added at the beginning of the 20th century. It has four wings and an immense central courtyard. The rooms have vaulted ceilings with Rococo stucco. Over the years, the structure has been the home of Hungarian nobility, a concert hall and a government facility. The building is a great example of Rococo style, which is acknowledged for its florid embellishments.

Today, the palace houses a selection of high-end cafes, restaurants, shops and boutiques amidst the historic sites of the town. Visitors to the municipality will appreciate spending the day exploring the many amazing buildings and varied architectural elements which make this place exceptional.

Johann P谩lffy Palace, located in the historic Old Town of Bratislava, is an example of late Classicism architecture with a rich Baroque influence. Initially built in the 18th century for Count Leopold P谩lffy, a major figure in the armed forces of Empress Maria Theresa and the Count of Pozsony County, the palace has since undergone several transformations and served various significant roles throughout its history.

Originally a residential building for the P谩lffy family, the palace has a storied past, featuring as a government mint and hosting one of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart鈥檚 early concerts. It also served as the Austrian embassy. Archaeological excavations on the site have revealed traces of a Gothic structure as well as Roman and Celtic artifacts, indicating the historical depth of the location.

By the middle of the 19th century, the palace was rebuilt by Count Jan P谩lffy, who held the position of Bratislava鈥檚 highest official at the time. Today, the palace is incorporated into the Bratislava City Gallery, offering a significant cultural venue. It houses three permanent exhibitions that showcase the art and history spanning from the oldest historical periods to contemporary topics. The exhibitions include an impressive collection of original paintings by Dutch and Flemish masters from the 17th and 18th centuries, such as Rembrandt and Rubens.

One of the highlights within the gallery is the statue of the Vajnorsk谩 Madonna and Child, an oak carving believed to be from the Regensburg workshop, dating possibly from the late 13th century. Additionally, the gallery has created a permanent exhibition dedicated to Celtic coinage, inspired by significant archaeological findings confirming the presence of a Celtic mint on the site.

The palace is accessible to visitors all year round, with exhibitions spread across three floors and the basement. The courtyard offers a tranquil retreat in the bustling city and is open to the public for free. The entrance reception provides current literature focused on contemporary art events, enriching the educational experience for visitors.

The Pauli (P谩llfy) Palace is a Baroque-style edifice in the Old Town of Bratislava, located at No. 10 Vent煤rsk谩 Street, and is not to be confused with the Johann P谩lffy Palace in Pansk谩 Street.

It was built in 1747, designed by architect Franz K. Romisch, as the seat of Count Leopold P谩lffy (Leopold de Pauli), member of the influential aristocratic Hungarian family, who served as the main administrator of the Austro-Hungarian imperial property.

Among other features, the building boasts a large staircase made of hard Kaiserstein (a type of limestone) from the Imperial Quarry (Kaisersteinbruch) near Vienna, and has an interesting portal decorated with a relief, reflecting military career of Leopold P谩lffy, the first owner of the house, as a general in the army of Empress Maria Theresa. There are also other war trophies, plus a pair of inner loggias found within the property. Outside, there is a garden with the charming musical Rococo pavilion.

Here, in 1762, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, then aged six, played a concert for the local aristocracy, accompanied by his father 鈥� the only concert that he gave in the then Hungary. Also, in his time, another great composer, Franz (Ferenz) Liszt, performed here in the first-floor lounge of the Palace, in 1820.

At some point in the past, the Palace was used a mint. From 1993 to 2012, it had housed the Austrian embassy. Presently, the musical pavilion and the Palace itself are both part of the Bratislava University Library.

The only surviving gate from the city's medieval walls lies at the end of Michael's Street. Michael's Gate (Michalska Brana) was built around 1300 and once stood with three others leading into town. It is one of the oldest buildings in town.

The tower's baroque exterior is a result of reconstruction works carried out in the 1750s. The statue of Saint Michael and the Dragon was placed at the top during this time.

The gate got its name as the Church of Saint Michael stood just outside the city walls here.

At one point, the city was surrounded by medieval fortifications. Entrance to town was only possible through the four gates, all of which were guarded and fortified. The other gates, now demolished, were the Laurens Gate, Fisherman's Gate on the river Danube, and Vydrica Gate.

At its height, the gate was part of a much larger system of fortifications. They included two rings of city walls, two bastions, a barbican, and a bridge over a moat. The barbican is still present and today has been built into houses. The original bridge over the moat was replaced by a stone one in 1727. Some of the moat is also still visible.

The view from the top of the seven-floor, 51-meter tall tower is spectacular. There is no better place from which to view the old town of Bratislava. To get in the tower, enter through the Museum of Arms. The museum contains excellent exhibits about the fortifications and the history of the city.

The street leading from the Michael's Gate, Michael's Street, is lined with shops and attractions. In addition to the Arms Museum, you'll also find the Pharmacy Museum nearby in a very old shop building. There are also bars, cafes, and restaurants lining the street.

Grassalkovich Palace, located in Bratislava, is a significant architectural and historical landmark. This Rococo-late Baroque summer palace, completed in 1760 by architect Andr谩s Mayerhoffer, was originally constructed for the Hungarian aristocrat Antal Grassalkovich, a confidant of Maria Theresa and a prominent figure in the Royal Hungarian Chamber. Positioned on Hod啪ovo n谩mestie and near the Summer Archbishop's Palace, it features an elegant French garden.

The palace became a vibrant center of Baroque music, hosting premieres of Joseph Haydn's compositions, thanks to Grassalkovich鈥檚 close ties with the Habsburg royal court. It was also the scene of various significant social events, including balls attended by members of the royal family.

Following the end of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the palace underwent several transformations. It served as the residence of Jozef Tiso, leader of the fascist Slovak Republic during World War II, and later as an administrative building during the Communist era. Notably, it was repurposed as the "Klement Gottwald House of Pioneers and Youth," which led to considerable wear and tear from its use by schoolchildren.

After the fall of Communism in 1989, the palace was extensively restored under the supervision of Em铆lia Kov谩膷ov谩, Slovakia鈥檚 inaugural First Lady. Since 1996, it has served as the official residence of the President of Slovakia. Today, its once-private gardens are open to the public as a park, featuring a statue of the composer Jan Nepomuk Hummel, enhancing its cultural and historical heritage for visitors and residents alike.

The Capuchin Church in Bratislava is a notable historical and architectural gem nestled in the heart of the country's capital. This modest church, dedicated to Saint Stephen of Hungary, stands as a testament to the Capuchin order's expansion into the Slavic region during the early 18th century. Construction began in 1711, marking it as one of the first Capuchin temples in Central Europe. The church originally served as the center of a new parish, gradually earning its reputation as one of Bratislava's most important religious buildings.

Architecturally, the Capuchin Church is an example of the Baroque style, characterized by its tall, angular facade and somewhat low ceilings compared to larger cathedrals. Despite its size, the church features long corridors and tall towers, typical of the solemn and reflective aesthetic of Catholic worship spaces. At the front, a robust column showcases a sculpture of the Virgin Mary, and a memorial statue of King Stephen further enriches the church's entrance.

Inside, the church's white walls and large windows create a bright and welcoming atmosphere, reflecting natural light that accentuates its modest interior. The church houses several religious artworks, including frescoes, statuettes, and wood carvings, primarily focused on religious themes. Notably, outside the church, a plaque commemorates the victims of the plague, adding a historical layer to its religious significance.

Today, the Capuchin Church remains a cherished historical monument in Bratislava, offering a quiet, simple space where visitors can reflect and appreciate its cultural and religious heritage. Its unassuming presence in a bustling metropolis makes it a must-see for anyone exploring the architectural and historical landscapes of Slovakia.

Today this impressive baroque building is the home of the Mayor of Bratislava, but there is much more history to uncover here.

The Primate's Palace was built from 1777 to 1781 and was designed by Melchoir Hefele. At one time, the palace was home to the primary bishops.

The palace's greatest claim to fame was that it served as a backdrop for signing the fourth Peace of Pressburg in 1805. This document, signed in the building's famous Hall of Mirrors, dissolved the Holy Roman Empire. A bust of Emperor Francis II, the last Roman Emperor, stands near the hall to commemorate the event.

The city purchased the palace in 1903 and began an extensive reconstruction project. During the work, 17th-century tapestries were found behind walls.

For a brief time, the palace was home to the President of Slovakia before his permanent residence was built at Grassalkovich Palace.

The palace is open for tours. You can even see the famous Hall of Mirrors, now used for Bratislava City Council meetings.

The Old Town Hall of Bratislava is an excellent example of Gothic architecture. Originally constructed in the 14th century, with the tower dating back from approximately 1370, this is one of the oldest stone buildings in the Slovakian capital. It was originally designed to accommodate soldiers guarding the fortress surrounding the medieval town.

Presently, the Old Town Hall represents a complex of buildings created through merger of several adjacent townhouses, namely: Jacobus' house with a tower, Pawer's house, Unger's house, and the Apponyi palace. Over the ages, the property had undergone numerous reconstructions and served different purposes: as a prison, mint, market, municipal archive, and arsenal depository, until it finally became a town hall in the 15th century. In this capacity it had served until the late 19th century.

During the Renaissance period, the complex passed through various transformations, including those after being damaged by an earthquake and then fire.

Today, it houses the Bratislava City Museum, featuring a collection of historic artifacts: cannonballs; dungeons with instruments of torture; antique weaponry and armour; as well as paintings and miniatures. One of the cannonballs, the one embedded in the tower wall, is of a particular interest to visitors. It has been there since 1809, resulted from the bombardment of the city by the invading Napoleonic army.

In the summer, the courtyard plays host to musical concerts. In the attic of the Apponyi Palace there is a Study Depository of Glass and Ceramics. The beautifully-tiled roof of the building is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. The top of the Old Town Hall tower is open to visitors, as part of the Bratislava City Museum exhibition, offering a round view of the old part of Bratislava and its environs.

The central point in old town Bratislava, the Main Square, has been the hub of the town for centuries. It is surrounded by landmarks, including Kutscherfeldov Palace, Pawera House, Ungerov Dom, and the Maximillian Fountain. Additionally, tons of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area keep it bustling.

During the winter months, the Main Square is home to Bratislava's Christmas fair. The entire area is decorated, and vendors set up stalls throughout the square. You'll find souvenirs, boiled wine, beer, and many different Slovak foods.

Over the years, the square has changed names several times. During World War II, it was named to honor Hilter. From 1948 to 1989, it was named for the day Bratislava was liberated by the Red Army - 4 April Square.

The square is home to the Old Town Hall building and several other landmark buildings. Old Town Hall was built in 1599 and is the oldest in the country. Today, it houses a museum all about the town's history.

The Japanese and French Embassy are also located here.

The 膶umil Statue in Bratislava is a quirky bronze sculpture crafted by Viktor Hul铆k. Located at the crossroads of Pansk谩 and Ryb谩rska Br谩na streets near the Main Square, this statue doesn鈥檛 depict any real person but comes from Hul铆k鈥檚 creative vision. It shows 膶umil, a figure taking a break and peeking out from a manhole, watching people go by and seemingly enjoying the view of young women.

Kids particularly love this statue because they get to touch 膶umil鈥檚 head and sit on the statue, making it more engaging. Yet, its placement has caused several accidents with passing vehicles bumping into it. To address this, a sign reading "Man at Work" has been placed beside the statue to alert drivers and add a touch of humor for tourists taking pictures.

膶umil is a popular spot for photos in Bratislava, drawing many tourists. Locals have come up with various fun and symbolic stories about why 膶umil is there, ranging from jokes about him being nosy to deeper meanings depicting him as a typical Slovak worker. These stories and the statue鈥檚 playful nature spark lively conversations among visitors and locals alike.

Even though 膶umil is now protected from traffic by a sign, he still faces the wear and tear of being a beloved interactive landmark. There鈥檚 even a light-hearted warning for women about mythical risks involving storks. More than just a piece of art, 膶umil helps weave the rich cultural stories and legends of Bratislava.

The Slovak National Theater of drama, opera and ballet is the oldest professional theater in Slovakia. Its history begins shortly after the establishment of the first Czechoslovak Republic in 1918, while the Neo-Renaissance building in Hviezdoslav Square, showing elements of the Austro-Hungarian influence, is a bit older and dates back to the 1880s.

It was designed by the Viennese architects Fellner & Helmer, and opened on 22 September 1886, with the opera B谩nk b谩n by Ferenc Erkel. As a sign of importance, the then-Hungarian prime minister and entire cabinet attended the ceremony. The gala performance was conducted by Ferenc Erkel himself.

Another Austrian sculptor, Viktor Oskar Tilgner, is responsible for creating outside the Ganymede fountain, in 1888. The original building had a seating capacity of 1,000 spectators and was illuminated with 800 gas lamps, plus a 64-light chandelier in the auditorium.

In 1969-1972, the Theater underwent renovation, receiving a modern technical facility behind the old structure.

Performances take place here on most days of the year, so if you're a passionate theater goer, feel free to check the program in advance, so as not to miss anything worthy.

As with most towns in Europe, Bratislava centers around large squares like the Hviezdoslav Square. It's a beautiful place to walk around, with memorials to national figures and lots of history. The square has been here and part of the Kingdom of Hungary for over 1,000 years.

Historically, the square has been the center of daily life and home to many important institutions. For example, the Cathedrale Notre Dame Cloister and the Slovak National Theater were located here. During medieval times, many of the noble families lived near here.

One of the most impressive monuments is to the square's namesake, Pavol Orszagh Hviezdoslav. He was born in 1849, and Hviezdoslav was a famous Slovak poet, dramatist, and Hungarian patriot. He was from a noble family and served in the Czechoslovak parliament from 1918 to 1920.

The square was recently renovated. Whereas it has historically looked like a small park, today's Hviezdoslav Square looks like the impressive city promenade that it is. It is primarily pedestrian-only, with many trees and quiet greenspaces.

Today, you'll find many important businesses and buildings here. The national opera house still stands here. The German and American embassy buildings are on the square, along with several popular hotels. On the north end of the square, you can find many popular restaurants and bars.

The Hungarian Secessionist Catholic Church, known as the Church of Saint Elisabeth or the Blue Church, is located in Old Town Bratislava. The construction was consecrated to Elisabeth of Hungary, who was a princess and, later, became a Roman Catholic saint. She was widowed young and surrendered her wealth for a life devoted to the poor and indigent. After her death at the age of 24, many miracles of healing were accredited to her. She was canonized by Pope Gregory IX in 1235.

Built in 1908, the structure was designed by Odon Lechner, a recognized Hungarian architect. He was known to embellish his constructions with Zsolnay tile patterns. Zsolnay tiles were manufactured by a Hungarian company known for its intricate porcelain, tiles, stoneware and pottery. The tiles on the church鈥檚 roof were generated using the pyrogranite process, which involves firing ceramic under exceptionally high temperatures, producing resilient materials which are resistant to acid and frost. The structure has attained its name because of the blue color of the mosaics, which decorate its roof and walls.

The building features a cylindrical tower and bell dome common to the Hungarian Art Nouveau and the Romanesque movement in art and architecture. The single nave church contains vaulted ceilings along with hints of barrel vaults. Romanesque double pillars encompass the entrances and the windows.