I had traveled to Bratislava, Slovakia for work and was able to see some of the sites around town. Bratislava has a storied past. It is currently the seat of power for the country of Slovakia. Those of you a little older may still remember the country of Czechoslovakia. Czechoslovakia peacefully separated into Czech and Slovakia in what was known as the Velvet divorce. This parting of Czech and Slovakia was decided after the overthrow of Communism in 1989 with the Velvet Revolution. Soon after their independence, Michal Kovac was elected President of Slovakia and their country has continued to progress ever since.
I was able to visit Bratislava castle which sits upon a hilltop overlooking the Danube River. This castle has been restored and hosts a museum that details history of the castle and the surrounding town of Bratislava. The castle provides a great view of the city and you can see the UFO Bridge & Tower. This bridge spans the West and East sides of Bratislava and is the 7th largest hanging bridge in the world. A 45 second elevator ride can take you to the top observation deck where you can dine at the restaurant or simply take in the great views. There are great parks and pathways along either side of the Danube. These are great for the evening stroll or keeping in shape with a quick jog along the river banks.
A few blocks from the Eastern river walk, sits St. Martin’s Cathedral. This is the largest, as well as, one of the oldest churches in Bratislava. This church held 19 coronations when it was under the control of the Kingdom of Hungary from 1563 through 1830.
The city is festooned with many statues. Perhaps the most photographed is Cumil “the watcher”. This bronze statue of a man poking out of a manhole cover was created in June of 1997 by Viktor Hulik. Rumors surround the statues intentions. Perhaps he is the stereotypical communist era worker that is more concerned with watching the world go by than his actual work. Or, he is simply being creative and gaining the best view of the beautiful ladies of Bratislava as they pass by in their flowing dresses.
While this land locked destination won’t be on the stopping list for most cruisers, it would make a great destination if you have time to travel overland through Europe. Bratislava is located on the Danube, so it could be possible to make the journey along the river with the right boat.
What did you think of your trip to Bratislava? Is it on your “to see” list?
I was able to visit Bratislava castle which sits upon a hilltop overlooking the Danube River. This castle has been restored and hosts a museum that details history of the castle and the surrounding town of Bratislava. The castle provides a great view of the city and you can see the UFO Bridge & Tower. This bridge spans the West and East sides of Bratislava and is the 7th largest hanging bridge in the world. A 45 second elevator ride can take you to the top observation deck where you can dine at the restaurant or simply take in the great views. There are great parks and pathways along either side of the Danube. These are great for the evening stroll or keeping in shape with a quick jog along the river banks.
A few blocks from the Eastern river walk, sits St. Martin’s Cathedral. This is the largest, as well as, one of the oldest churches in Bratislava. This church held 19 coronations when it was under the control of the Kingdom of Hungary from 1563 through 1830.
The city is festooned with many statues. Perhaps the most photographed is Cumil “the watcher”. This bronze statue of a man poking out of a manhole cover was created in June of 1997 by Viktor Hulik. Rumors surround the statues intentions. Perhaps he is the stereotypical communist era worker that is more concerned with watching the world go by than his actual work. Or, he is simply being creative and gaining the best view of the beautiful ladies of Bratislava as they pass by in their flowing dresses.
While this land locked destination won’t be on the stopping list for most cruisers, it would make a great destination if you have time to travel overland through Europe. Bratislava is located on the Danube, so it could be possible to make the journey along the river with the right boat.
What did you think of your trip to Bratislava? Is it on your “to see” list?