Which are the interesting things to see in Bratislava? The city of Bratislava is known for its history. The coronation of Maria Theresa or other Austrian monarchs was taking place in Bratislava.
In 1536, Bratislava was declared as the capital city of former Hungary, as the main seat of Hungarian congress, its main authorities and offices, and as the coronation city of Hungarian kings and queens. From 1563 to 1830, totally 11 kings and 8 royal wives were coronated in Bratislava.
In 18th century, mainly during the reign of Maria Theresa, the significance of Bratislava grew rapidly, thanks to which many palaces and buildings were preserved from this period.
Interesting things to see in Bratislava
Bratislava Castle
Where was located the Celtic oppidum? Where did Maria Theresa walk? The parts of facades of uncovered basilica from the period of Great Moravia, stone artefacts from the gothic castle of Žigmund Luxemburský, items found by archeological research, as well as paintings and graphics of Bratislava castle can be seen at renewed exhibition.
The part of the castle areal is also the park with visible foundations of the basilica from the period of Great Moravia. During the walk in the park, visitors will have various views on Bratislava. They will have an opportunity to see also very inconspicuous statute of St. Elizabeth born in 1207 directly in the building of Bratislava castle. It is one of the most interesting things to see in Bratislava.
Old Town
Michal´s gate represents one of the main symbols of Bratislava. From original four gates enabling the entrance into the fortified medieval town, only the gate of Michal´s tower is preserved now. Under the Michal´s tower, there is a 0th kilometer, from which the distance from Bratislava to selected cities is calculated. From the Michal´s gate, you can see the whole rest of Michalská ulica, which belongs to the oldest in the city.
On the corner of Ventúrska and Prepoštská ulica, there is Zichyho palác, which stands out thanks to its elegant and strictly classicistic façade. It was built around 1775 on the order of the lord František Zichy.
On the corner of Ventúrska and Zelená ulica, there is a baroque palace called Pálffyho palác. Commemorative board on the façade of the Pálffyho palác from the side of Ventúrska ulica states that in this building allegedly took place a concert of 6-year old Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756 – 1791).
Hviezdoslavovo námestie belongs to the most beautiful and the most vivid squares in the city. The most representative building there is Slovak National Theatre.
St. Martin´s Cathedral (Dóm sv. Martina)
The biggest and the oldest church in Bratislava, built in 14th century. It was the coronation cathedral in 1563 to 1830.
In this period, ten Hungarian kings, one queen and eight royal wives were coronated there.
Bratislava has returned to this tradition, and every year, by the end of June, the city remembers this event in the form of grandiose dramatic performance played for the first time in 2003 on 440th anniversary of the first coronation of Hungarian king Maximilian.
The actors in costumes are interpreting the oath of the king directly on the place, where the real coronation took place.
Danubiana Art Museum
Almost 20 km south from Bratislava, you can find one of the most romantic museums of modern art in Europe – Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum.
The museum was founded by the collector or supporter of the art, Gerard Meulensteen from Eindhoven, Netherlands, and Slovak gallerist Vincent Polakovič.
Since 2000, by the opening of the museum, tens of exhibitions of the most prestige persons of Slovak, European and International fine art scene presented their works there.
The unique location of the museum, situated on the borders of three states, and mainly the exceptionally sensitive connection with the surrounding nature and the Danube river, offer the visitors unforgettable views not only on presented fine art works, but mainly on the flora and fauna, which is unique and original on this art peninsula in each season of the year.
Nedbalka Gallery
In one of the streets of the Old Town, there is a small and inconspicuous gallery. Nedbalka gallery with the works of the most significant Slovak artists. The gallery belongs to the most beautiful buildings of this kind in Slovakia.
Blue Church
The Church of St. Elizabeth built in secessional style in the beginning of the 20th century. The facade is typical by its blue color. It is typical also by detailed elaboration of the façade with the frequent use of mosaic. It is very popular place for christening and wedding ceremonies.
UFO and SNP Bridge
It is a unique observatory deck standing on pylons of the SNP Bridge in the height of 95 meters. An amazing view on the city and visibility up to 100 km. This place offers the most beautiful sunset in Bratislava in the combination with the culinary experience.