Do you know where to find Bratislava? Here is a mini quiz to test you!
Question - Bratislava is:
- A European capital city
- A small island in the Mediterranean
- A volcano in Southeast Asia
- A tasty sausage popular in Germany
Answer: 1. The capital of Slovakia, or more correctly the Slovak Republic, has a long and storied history. One of the Imperial cities of the Hapsburg and Austro-Hungarian empires, it was also a regional capital of Czechoslovakia before its dissolution into the Czech and Slovak Republics in 1993.
A determined and planned renaissance has been in force since the re-establishment of Slovakia’s independence. After years of communist indifference, restoration of historical buildings, new and creative architecture and artworks, as well as a teeming nightlife have turned the city into a popular destination.
Aside from being a fun city with a thriving night scene, there are many historical and cultural things to see and do.
Bratislava’s Old Town is an attractive place to visit and stroll. Charming cobblestone streets full of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Musicians, artists, and street vendors abound. But, the quirky sculptures throughout the city are one of most fun public art displays around. Scattered throughout Old Town, they appear with no rhyme or reason. Just fun.
Old Town Hall, the former seat of government is home to the Bratislava City Museum. And don’t miss Maximilian’s Chocolate Shop for a break. Schokocafe Maximilian has, arguably, the best hot chocolate anywhere. It is so thick, you can eat it with a spoon. Mmm it was yummy. We went back twice!
Bratislava Castle sits high above the city – once the coronation castle of the Hapsburgs and Austro-Hungarian empires and home to the coronation jewels. The spectacular view is not just of the city, but three countries: Austria, Hungary, Slovakia.
For modern art aficionados, the Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum rests on a peninsula on the Danube and houses a new collection of Dutch and Slovak masterpieces, as well as a sculpture garden.
Devin Castle is a great place to enjoy a picnic, hike or bike after exploring the ruins of this strategically located fortress that has been controlled by Hapsburgs, Napoleon, Nazis, Soviets, and numerous medieval forces.
Now you know not only where to find Bratislava, but you have an introduction for your visit!
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