Sights of Bratislava – 25 most interesting places
The city received such a friendly name not so long ago: until 1919 it was Presporek. Now Bratislava is the multinational capital of Slovakia, the only one of all European capitals that directly borders Hungary and Austria. The border connection with the Austrian territory is so close that Kopchyanskaya Street smoothly turns into the street of the neighboring Austrian village. The city retained the status of the capital of the new independent state of Slovakia, which separated from the united Czechoslovakia after the collapse of the socialist camp (1993). Now the city is actively developing its infrastructure and industry, while preserving historical sights. Let's talk about the most interesting sights of Bratislava.
Bratislava Castle
The most famous landmark of the city is visible from all points, because it is located on a high cliff above the majestic Danube. The snow-white monumental building under the red roof, like a huge swan, literally soars against the sky background. This architectural masterpiece is irresistibly beautiful at night in the shining lights of illumination. The castle building has a difficult long history of its existence. Even in the 3rd millennium BC. e. the first buildings have already appeared on the site of the current castle (proven by archaeological excavations). For the first time, you can read about the castle in the documents of 907, in which it was listed as the place of the coronation of the Hungarian kings.
In the 15th century, the majestic palace was surrounded by defensive fortifications and gates, but at the beginning of the 19th century, as a result of a strong fire, a significant part of the Bratislava Castle burned down. Only 140 years later, under pressure from the public, the authorities paid attention to the historical building, and the active restoration of the architectural monument began (1953-1968). The castle was resurrected from oblivion, acquiring the appearance of late Gothic architecture of the 15th century. The magnificent structure of the correct 4-coal shape with angular pointed turrets, with symmetrical rows of large windows looks very impressive.
Elements of the Renaissance and Baroque reinforce the impression of luxurious imposingness of the palace. The entrance gate, quite well preserved, is in itself a wonderful architectural monument. Inside the palace there is an archeological department of the National Museum of Slovakia, whose expositions showcase finds from different eras from primitive to modern. There is a unique artifact in the form of Neanderthal skull fragments, Bronze Age gold items, items from the Celtic period and the Roman Empire.
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The second floor of the palace has the Hall of Fame, which presents sports trophies of the hockey team, personal belongings of famous hockey players; uniforms, sticks and pucks from legendary matches. From a height, a stunning panorama of the Old Town opens up, which tourists contemplate with admiration. Wonderful impressions await everyone in the lower park near the castle: graceful statues, a wonderful landscape, cozy benches – everything here is harmonious and beautiful.
main square
The old square, being the main square of Bratislava, is called “Main”, although in ancient times it was called “Market”. With the disappearance of the market, the old name of a cozy small square, surrounded on all sides by ancient architectural structures of various styles, has gone. Grandiose Baroque palaces and austere Gothic mansions stand next to majestic buildings in the spirit of classicism.
In the center of the square is the Roland Fountain, built in the Renaissance style (1572) in honor of the coronation of Maximilian II, whose sculpture adorns the fountain. According to rumors, the emperor himself ordered the installation of the fountain after a fire broke out during his coronation. A popular belief says that on New Year‘s Eve Maximilian descends from the pedestal and walks around the square.
Between the 2 squares – the Main Square and the Primate Square – there is the Old Town Hall – a building in the Renaissance style with a pointed baroque tower. To the left of it is the Museum of Winemaking, where you can see various devices for making a drink, samples of Slovak wine. On Franciscan Square, the continuation of the Main Square, there is a luxurious baroque palace, built by order of the richest beer producer Martin Spech.
Another palace of Kutschefeld, which is not inferior in the beauty of Rococo architecture, captivates tourists with its facade. A sign hangs on the palace that the Russian composer Anton Rubinstein lived in it for some time (1847). Now this magnificent building houses the French Embassy. A walk along the square is a tour of the architectural monuments of the past.
Devin Castle
The same symbol of the past of Slovakia are the noble ruins of the Devin Castle, located on the mountain of the same name. It was difficult to choose a better place for a fortress castle on a fairly high steep mountain, above the confluence of the Morava and Danube rivers. From a distance, the two surviving towers of the castle seem tiny in comparison with the mountain, but close up you can see that they were powerful structures, like the walls of the castle (surviving parts). The first documentary evidence of Grad Devin dates back to 864, when it was owned by the Great Moravian Principality. Apparently, the castle was the residence of the rulers of Moravia, because it is located in a picturesque place and is reliably protected from the outside.
However, Grad Devin, judging by the destruction, was attacked more than once. The last of them was the siege by the Ottomans (1606), after which the citadel ceased to function as a defensive fortification, but became an ancient monument. But even in this sense, the Napoleonic troops barbarically blew up the castle, leaving only what could not be destroyed.
It is known that it was here that the famous missionaries and enlighteners brothers Cyril and Methodius were engaged in translating Greek church texts into Slavic. Now a mini-exposition has been organized in the preserved wing of the castle, which presents household items and clothing of the Middle Ages. Devin Castle is a place from where you can admire amazingly beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. Even just for the sake of it, it is worth climbing here, not to mention the historical significance of the castle.
Memorial complex Slavin
Like in many other European countries, Slovakia has a memorial complex dedicated to Soviet soldiers who liberated the city from the Nazis. More than 6,000 of them died in fierce battles, and all of them are interred in a military cemetery. On the 15th anniversary of the Victory, a grandiose monument was erected on the mountain with the symbolic name Slavin, one of the most beautiful in Europe.
The majestic building is a symbol of the grateful memory of the Slovaks to those whose ashes lie in the cemetery – the officers and soldiers of the SA. The authors of the complex did not just draw up a project, but put their soul and heart into their brainchild. The obelisks and sculptures created by them became the embodiment of gratitude to the soldiers, a symbol of the eternal memory of the dead. Everything is done so soundly that the monument will stand for many centuries.
The height of the pedestal, together with the figure of a soldier with a banner in a raised hand, is 52 meters. In addition to the central monument, at the foot of the stairs there is a sculptural composition: two soldiers and a boy clinging to one of them. At the opposite edge of the stairs is the figure of a fragile girl greeting the liberators with bread and salt. The territory of the complex consists of 3 thematic parts.
The first is dedicated to the oath to the battle banner and is made in the form of a two-flight staircase with bas-reliefs. The second part, consisting of sculptures and a cemetery, can be conditionally called “Thanks to the Fallen”. The third is represented by the Funeral Hall, on the door of which episodes of liberation are reflected in expressive bas-reliefs. Thousands of people come here on the day of the liberation of the City.
Bridge SNP
Bratislava, standing on the banks of the Danube, cannot do without bridges, one of which, the SNP Bridge, can be safely called an architectural miracle of bridge building. An impressive suspended structure, which has no support in the Danube, like a huge steel bird, crosses the smooth waters of the beautiful river. Opened in 1972, the bridge was first called “New”, but later renamed SNP, which stands for “Slovak National Uprising”.
During the construction of the innovative bridge design, part of the residential buildings in the Jewish quarter, located on the coast, had to be sacrificed. But the commissioning of such a fantastic crossing solved significant problems with traffic and pedestrians and “paid for” the destruction. The magnificent bridge has become the pride and favorite place of the residents, because it is not just a crossing, but a complex that combines a convenient route for vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians with entertainment facilities.
The upper lane of the two-level span is for cars, and the lower lane is for pedestrians and cyclists. At the top of the pillar, there is a restaurant connected to an observation deck, where you can take a lift in a matter of seconds to enjoy the eye-catching surroundings of the Danube and the city.
The elevator is located on the left (additional support), and on the right there is an emergency descent of 430 steps. In addition, the bridge serves as a water supply artery that supplies water to the inhabitants of the Old Town and the Petrzalka district. The unique suspension structure, 430.8 m long, is mounted on one support (height 84.6 m) and still remains the world leader among bridges of this category.
Presidential palace
The majestic white building under a gray figured roof is one of the central attractions, not only as a beautiful architectural monument of the 18th century, but also as the main administrative institution of Slovakia. The palace is rich in its history, which began in 1765, when it was built for an influential adviser to Queen Maria Theresa – Count Grassalkovich.
The second name of the palace sounds like “Grassalkovich's palace”, where numerous feasts, balls and ceremonial receptions were held in his possession of the palace. It is known that sometimes the famous composer Joseph Haydn took part in them, delighting the guests with the music of his works. A significant wedding of the imperial daughter took place within the walls of the palace.
Built in the Renaissance style of white and gray bricks, the palace is decorated with sculptural bas-reliefs, stucco arched windows and figured entrance porticos. During the era of the Slovak Republic (1919), various state institutions were housed in the palace. In the Soviet years, the Palace of Pioneers was located here, then it served as the residence of Broz Tito.
After restoration in the early 90s, it became the Presidential Palace. Now it is surrounded by a transparent bulletproof fence; a large fountain was arranged on the palace square, in the center of which, on a round blue platform, a model of the globe was installed as a symbol of world peace. Hundreds of tourists and guests of the city come to the magnificent building to admire its beauty.
Cathedral of Saint Martin
The Cathedral of the patron saint of Slovakia, Martin, was erected over an ancient cemetery, under which there are catacombs up to 6 meters deep with the tombs of significant spiritual persons and representatives of the eminent nobility of the past. Built in 1221, the temple is the oldest major cathedral in Bratislava, which is proud not only of its inhabitants, but of all Slovaks.
The high domed tower of the cathedral is of rich green color, topped with a massive (300 kg) gilded crown of St. Stephanie enchants the eye with her airy beauty. After the consecration of the temple (1485), it became the place where the rulers of the Roman Empire were crowned. After Bratislava became the capital of Hungary, kings (10) and their wives (8) were crowned in the cathedral. The brilliant Empress Maria Theresa was also crowned in this magnificent cathedral, which now belongs to the Bratislava diocese.
The cathedral is surrounded by the chapels of Saints Anna, John and Sophia, a sculptural symbolic statue of St. Martin and the beggar. On the portal is a relief expressive image of the Holy Trinity. Inside the temple has a gallery where the kings were during the Mass. The interiors of the cathedral are beautiful with wonderful stained-glass windows, a magnificent altar, and carved decorations. Parishioners and numerous tourists willingly come here.
Old Town Hall
As a primordially European capital, Bratislava could not do without the traditional City Hall, the main building of which was erected in the 14th century, and additional extensions – at the beginning of the 15th century. As befits an administrative building, the City Hall is located in the center. It combines several historical buildings of different styles, which were previously private houses. For 4 centuries, the building of the town hall was rebuilt and completed several times, adding elements of avant-garde Gothic and Renaissance to its architecture.
Its oldest part remained unchanged – a three-tiered corner tower, rising like a Gothic dome over the terracotta roofs of other buildings. The slender cream-colored structure is harmoniously “fitted” into the overall architectural ensemble.
The town hall is a witness to important decisions of the city council, from time to time it served as a prison, then a mint. The cannonball, which is still kept here, is evidence of the French invasion. Now the historical building houses the City Museum, the exhibits of which demonstrate the history of the city's development.
Church of the Capuchins of St. Stephen
Anyone who has been to Zhupna Square should have noticed a small, modest, but very elegantly refined, sand-colored church. Judging by the absence of a bell tower, we can conclude that this Catholic church belonged to the Capuchin order. Capuchin monks appeared in the city in 1676, having moved from Austria.
At first they rented the chapel of St. Catherine, but soon, due to the tightness of the premises, the Capuchins, having bought a plot of land, built a more spacious church (1711) of St. Stephen. Having undergone several reconstructions until 1860, the Capuchin church acquired a very nice, attractive appearance, without excessive outward pomp and pomp.
From the niche of the facade, St. Stephanie mounted on a pedestal. A rose window decorates the main entrance, the top of the church is overshadowed by a cross. In front of the temple, on a column with a figured base, there is a touching statue of the Virgin Mary, “blessing” the parishioners with a kind, sad smile.
Chapel of Saint James
In 1994, during construction work, the ruins of the ancient chapel of St. Jacob, located in the Old City. As archaeologists found out, next to the chapel, the church of St. Lawrence of the 11th-12th centuries, the presence of which was confirmed by the outlines of the foundation of a darker cobblestone. Carrying out deeper excavations, archaeologists discovered the remains of an ancient rotunda of about 1100, demolished during the construction of the above-mentioned Laurentian church, and instead of it they built a Romanesque-type ossuary of St. Jacob.
Then in 1436 the chapel of St. James in the Romanesque style, which was destroyed in 1529 before the threat of the Ottoman invasion. It was these ruins that were discovered during excavations and surrounded by a glass pavilion. Later they were included in the city museum as a branch. The sacred remains of the chapel can be visited 2 times a year on feast days dedicated to St. James.
Zoo
Although the zoo is inferior to other European counterparts in size, it does not differ much from its counterparts in terms of the variety of species of its inhabitants. In the cozy well-groomed territory of the zoo, 700 individuals of representatives of the fauna of more than 170 species live and breed. The peculiarity of this institution is the desire of employees to increase the number of rare endangered wild animals under the Endangered Animals Rescue Program.
There are more than 20 species of them here: white rhinoceros, bison, short-faced kangaroo, etc. There are also exotic representatives that live only in natural conditions in cozy captivity enclosures: bristly armadillo and sloth. Basically, all enclosures are fenced off with transparent partitions made of thick impenetrable glass, through which it is easy to observe the animals without disturbing them and without exposing oneself to any danger.
The cubs, being born, remain with their parents, causing affection of visitors by playing with adult animals. In the picturesque bird's corner there are many parrots, different types of owls, pigeons, chickens, pheasants; majestic swans, wild geese and other waterfowl.
There is an exotarium here, where amphibians, reptiles and fish live. For children, the Dinopark children‘s town, located next to the zoo, is equipped, where they can have fun on the rides, play, and eat desserts in the cafe. From visiting this amazing corner of the unity of civilization and wildlife, the best memories remain.
Esterhazy Palace
In the Old Town on the banks of the Danube, a strict, restrained and majestic building attracts the eye. It was built at the end of the 19th century by representatives of the noble Hungarian Esterházy dynasty. Natives of the Slovak city of Galanty, under the Habsburgs, they became one of the largest private landowners. The Esterhazys believed that their ancestor was the famous Hun leader Attila, and in Europe they were considered equivalent to monarchs.
Representatives of the family were connoisseurs of the arts, had an excellent collection of paintings, and the composer Haydn was once their bandmaster. They built one of their residences in Bratislava. The symmetrical building, built according to all the rules of the neo-Renaissance, is distinguished by a clear alignment of forms. The author of the project was J. Feigler (junior). In 1920, the palace was somewhat rebuilt, but the staircase, pediments, decorative French balconies and arched windows on the first floor have been preserved from the previous building.
In 1950 it housed the Slovak National Gallery. Its rich collection includes more than 55 thousand exhibits. These are photographs, and sculptures, and works of decorative art, and, of course, paintings. The collection can be proud of the masterpieces of world geniuses such as Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol. Also in the palace is a cafe and a bookstore.
Mirror Gallery Multium
For tourists who are tired of seeing medieval sights, an interesting gallery located near the castle will be a real find. Visitors can enter six rooms, three on each floor.
Walking along the white corridors, you might think that you are in some kind of office, but as soon as you open the door, the sense of space and time is completely lost. The displays are very compact, and there is only a small platform in the room where a person can stand. One or more decorative elements are repeatedly reflected in the mirrors, creating the illusion of infinity. The sight can make your head spin.
Each room has different ornaments, movements, patterns. Viewing the gallery is accompanied by music that enhances the effect. The author of this unique place is Thomas Hatrak, but he said that the original idea did not belong to him. Hatrak was inspired by the work of Yayoi Kusama and Matej Kren. You may have to wait a while before starting the inspection. This is done so that visitors do not interfere with each other. But then you will open a truly magical world in which you can feel like Alice in Wonderland.
Fountain of Maximilian
There are more than 140 fountains in the capital. The oldest and beloved by the townspeople is the fountain of Maximilian. It was built in the Renaissance style in 1572. During the festivities on the occasion of the solemn coronation of King Maximilian II, a fire broke out in the city. The fire quickly gained strength, there was not enough water to extinguish it.
This incident was the reason for the creation of a large fountain in the main square. The top of the building is decorated with a courageous figure of the knight Roland, who holds a sword and the coat of arms of Hungary (in those days, Bratislava was the capital of the Kingdom of Hungary). Some researchers claim that the sculpture immortalized King Maximilian himself. Unfortunately, history has not preserved the name of the author of the fountain, but the sculptor who worked on it is known – it was a stonemason from Austria Andres Luttringer.
The fountain has survived a lot over several centuries. Some fragments have been lost. Most recently, in 2019, it underwent reconstruction and returned the missing part – the pissing boys. Before the re-creation, there were dolphins instead. They also removed the non-original pool, which did not fit the composition. Now the fountain has acquired its original appearance.
Slovak National Theater
One of the most important cultural institutions in Slovakia is the National Theatre. Its history begins in 1920. By this time, the Austrian Empire had already collapsed and the Czechoslovak Republic was proclaimed. The first opera performed at the theater was The Kiss by composer Bendrich Smetana. It is significant that the premiere was held in Czech. Six years have passed, and an opera in Slovak was staged within the walls of the theater.
The theater is located in a beautiful historical building on Hviezdoslav Square, built in 1884-1886. In 2007, a new stage was opened on the edge of the city, which is located on the banks of the Danube. The theater combines all genres in its productions – opera, ballet, and drama. The repertoire is based on timeless classical or national works.
Giacomo Puccini's Tosca and Giuseppe Verdi's Aida are always very popular. An innovative approach is also presented. So, in the theater, Boris Eifman staged a ballet that combined the music of Wagner and the plot of Dostoevsky's The Brothers Karamazov. The theater season coincides with the tourist season, so many foreign lovers of theatrics can enjoy an unforgettable spectacle.
Palfi Palace
The ancient dynasty of Hungarian barons, counts and princes of Pálffy owned five mansions in Bratislava. The oldest of them was built at the beginning of the 18th century on Panskaya Street. At this time Count Palfi was one of the most powerful men in the city. He occupied an important post in the administration of the city and was a member of all the aristocratic salons.
Thinking about building his residence, the count bought three medieval buildings, standing in a row. All of them were demolished, and their foundations were used to build a magnificent palace. For three hundred years, the building has been repeatedly rebuilt. The last time was in the middle of the 19th century. Jan František Palfy, a representative of the dynasty, ordered that the main façade be decorated in a classical style. Now the premises of the building are occupied by an art gallery, which has been located there since 1988.
The interior has also undergone changes. Archaeological research is carried out on the territory of the mansion from time to time. So, the remains of a house built in the 13th century were discovered, and a tower was once erected next to it to protect against the enemy. A rather deep mine was also found. Scientists have found that it has remained since the time of the Celts, who set up their camp at the place where Bratislava later arose.
Slovnaft Arena
In the first half of the 20th century, after the proclamation of the Czechoslovak Republic, the government turned its attention to the development of sports. As a result, in the 1930s, the construction of a large-scale sports complex began. It was solemnly opened in mid-December 1940. Since then, the arena has been subjected to various changes and reconstructions more than once.
Its capacity is up to 10 thousand spectators. This sports complex is home to the famous Slovan hockey club, which played in the Kontinental Hockey League. The arena was last updated in 2008-2010, after the opening it was chosen to host the 2011 Ice Hockey World Championship.
Every autumn, figure skating fans gather here to see the Ondrej Nepela Memorial tournament, named after the remarkable figure skater. Nepela won the gold medal at the 11th Winter Olympics in Sapporo in 1972. In recent years, the European Figure Skating Championships, the Ice Hockey World Championships and the European Women's Volleyball Championships have been held here.
Archbishop's Palace
Another name for the palace is Primacial. This is one of the most beautiful buildings. In the second half of the 18th century, architect Melchior Hefele designed the residence of Josef Battiani, the first Hungarian cardinal. The neoclassical building pleased the primate and the project was approved. The construction was carried out from 1778 to 1781, for this it was necessary to demolish the old mansion, which was previously located on this site.
The roof is crowned with the coat of arms of the archbishop, and above it is a cardinal hat, which spoke of the status of the owner. The walls of this palace have seen many magnificent ceremonies. The coronations of the monarchs of the Kingdom of Hungary took place here, because Bratislava was once its capital. The Hall of Mirrors witnessed the signing of the Peace of Prespor between Napoleon Bonaparte and Austria, which lost the war. Napoleon was represented by Maurice Talleyrand, and Austria by Prince Jan Liechtenstein.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the palace became the property of the city. It was planned to locate the city hall in this building. An interesting find was waiting for the restorers in one of the walls – valuable tapestries tightly rolled up. Historians have found that they were created in 1630 in the English royal workshops. Today, this collection can be seen on the ground floor of the palace. Now this unique building is the residence of the head of the city council.
Gate of Sigismund
The castle, towering over the city, is rightfully considered a visiting card. Four gates lead into it, which were built at different times. Sigismund's Gate (or, as the Slovaks call it, Zygmund's Gate) can be found in the southeast. Their history goes back about 500 years. Despite such a considerable age, the gates created in the late Gothic style are well preserved. Leaving them and walking along the road, you can get to the Danube ford.
The gate got its name in honor of the king – Sigismund of Luxembourg. He liked the castle very much, and the king chose it as his residence. Before settling in these fortified walls, Sigismund spent a lot of time rebuilding the castle, and on the way out of the city he ordered the construction of new gates, distinguished by rich decorations. Now it is a large-scale and picturesque building, decorated with a red roof. The road leading from them to the castle is very beautiful and is a favorite place for photo shoots.
Hviezdoslav Square
Among the squares of the city, this is the most famous and largest. She appeared in 1784. At this time, the old city walls were destroyed, and the ditches with water that were located under them were covered with earth. The square was a very busy place. There were mansions belonging to 15 rich and famous families of the city. The eastern part was occupied by the monastery of the Holy Mother of God, where the daughters of the most distinguished nobles studied.
In 1848, people gathered in the square heard about the proclamation of the rebirth of Hungary. This speech was delivered by national leader Lajos Kossuth after the March Laws were signed in the Primacial Palace. Previously, the famous Söldfa Hotel was located here, the guests of which at various times were the Emperor of Austria-Hungary Franz Joseph, the brilliant scientists Alfred Nobel and Albert Einstein. The site of this hotel is now occupied by the equally famous Carlton Hotel.
In 1911, the square was decorated with a statue of the Hungarian poet and leader of the revolution Sandor Petofi. True, the monument lasted only 7 years. In 1918, when the Czechoslovak army occupied the city, the soldiers blew up the monument. At the end of the 20th century, the square was reconstructed and now it is a large and green pedestrian zone, decorated with two fountains and several monuments.
mountain park
In the very center there is an amazing place where flora and fauna are almost untouched – a mountain park. It was opened in 1868. Much of the credit for this belongs to Mayor Heinrich Juste. He wanted to preserve a unique natural landscape for posterity. Centennial oaks, beeches and pines still grow here. Ash and edible chestnut are often found.
Active members of the Bratislava landscaping society have put a lot of effort into creating a park in these places. A whole network of new roads was laid, a forester's house and a children's playground were built. 50 benches were placed for rest. Iron structures – gazebos, towers, pavilions – give the park a special flavor. An interesting solution was to attach tablets with poems of national poets to some trees.
In the park, not only old trees were preserved, but new species were planted, such as plane trees, yews or lindens. Now the park covers an area of approximately 22 hectares. The landscape consists of two valleys separated by a small mountain ridge and several terraced plateaus. In the very center of the park rises a monument to Justi, who has invested a lot of effort to preserve and improve this original place.
Apollo Bridge
There are five bridges across the Danube in the city. The Apollo Bridge is one of the newest and has an interesting design. The bridge got its name in memory of the Apollo oil refinery, which was located on the left bank of the river before World War II. In 1944, the factory was destroyed in a bombardment carried out by the American air force.
Construction began in 2002, and in 2005 its grand opening took place. However, the bridge project was created much earlier, back in 1973. The originality of the design in the complete absence of right angles. Smooth lines and sloping arches, illuminated at night, look very impressive and elegant.
However, the bridge is very massive, weighing 5240 tons and 854 meters long. It is actively used not only by motorists, but also by pedestrians and cyclists, as there are special paths for them, fenced off from the automobile part. The ascent to the bridge is very convenient – with the help of an elevator. An interesting fact is that there is a bus stop right on the bridge.
Transport Museum
Travelers arriving at the railway station can take the time to explore an interesting museum dedicated to the development of transport. It is very close to the train station and is open every day. Some of the exhibits are located directly under the open sky. Retro locomotives, railcars and locomotives can be viewed from all sides and come close to them.
In the large hangars, tech enthusiasts will be delighted to see sparkling vintage cars. Stops looking Mercedes-Benz 170 1931 and Skoda 860, built in 1929. Many cars of Skoda and Tatra firms are presented. There are also trucks, buses and motorcycles. Of interest is the exposition of military equipment – cars and self-propelled mines, painted in khaki color.
Connoisseurs of rarities will be happy to see unique items, such as an old baby carriage, a bicycle made of wood, a model of a railway bridge assembled from designer parts. There are separate rooms, stylized under certain themes – “Depot”, “Driving School” and so on. The museum is decorated very interestingly and will leave wonderful impressions.
Herulata
In ancient times, the Danube served as the border of the greatest state – the Roman Empire. For about four hundred years – from the 1st to the 4th century AD – there was a line of defense here. This fortified line was part of the Roman province of Pannonia. In the 5th century, the Great Migration of Nations brought Germanic tribes here, who were well armed and organized.
The warlike Germans broke through the defenses, and the border zone was abandoned for many years. Many years later, the Slavic peoples settled here. It was from them that the town that arose got its name – Rusovce. Now this area is a suburb. It is about 8 km from the city center. The Roman camp of Herulata is mentioned in medieval sources dating back to the 16th century.
However, its exact location remained a mystery for a long time. Only in 1965 did the archaeologist Jan Dekan manage to find the remains of the forts. They were restored and became part of the Bratislava Museum. Today, every tourist can visit these ancient structures.
Bratislava can be called a multi-layered city. The traveler here opens up huge layers of history, from ancient times to the present day. You can see the gloomy Middle Ages, graceful palaces of the nobility, Gothic churches and characteristic buildings of the Soviet era. Here everyone will find something that will touch the heart and leave amazing impressions.
Mikhailovsky gate
Cities in the Middle Ages were often exposed to dangers. In order to protect city buildings and residents during the next military clash, the settlement was surrounded by powerful walls with gates around the perimeter. In the 14th century, Bratislava was also under the protection of the fortress walls, and several gates were intended for entry and exit, directed in different directions of the world.
The Gate of St. Michael, built in 1300, is the last one that has survived to this day. All the rest are already lost. They got their name in honor of the church, located nearby. The church was destroyed at the same time, and the remaining stones were used to build fortress walls and gates. Like many medieval fortifications, the gate was equipped with a drawbridge, under which there was a moat with water.
The main building is the Michalska Tower, its height is 51 meters. Now there is a museum of weapons, and at the top, tourists can admire the city from the observation deck. The gate has been reconstructed several times. In the 18th century, the appearance of the tower acquired the features of the Baroque style. The top was crowned with a statue of St. Michael and the dragon.
Of course, the oldest building gave rise to many legends and beliefs. One of them says that you can't talk while under the vaults of the gate, but you can make a wish that will certainly come true. And one more curious fact – in the arch of the gate is the Bratislava prime meridian, and next to it are the distances to the capitals of some countries.