Bratislava Maps

Bratislava is the capital and largest city of Slovakia, situated along the Danube River. With a population of approximately 477,000 inhabitants, it serves as the country's political, cultural, and economic center. The city is uniquely positioned at the borders of three countries: Slovakia, Austria, and Hungary.

The history of Bratislava dates back to the Celtic period, with the first permanent settlement established around 5000 BCE. From 1536 to 1783, it served as the capital of the Kingdom of Hungary under the Habsburg Monarchy. During this period, eleven Hungarian kings and eight queens were crowned in the city's St. Martin's Cathedral.

The city's most prominent landmark is the Bratislava Castle, a massive rectangular building with four corner towers, situated on a hill overlooking the old town and the Danube. The castle's history spans from the Stone Age, though the current structure dates primarily from the 15th century. Another significant attraction is the UFO Bridge (Most SNP), featuring a distinctive flying saucer-shaped structure housing a restaurant with panoramic views.

The historic center, characterized by its medieval architecture, includes the Old Town Hall, Michael's Gate - the only preserved gate of the medieval fortifications, and numerous baroque palaces. The Blue Church (St. Elizabeth's) is a remarkable example of Art Nouveau architecture, known for its blue-tinted facade.

Today, Bratislava is a major economic hub, with numerous international companies establishing their operations here, particularly in the automotive and technology sectors. The city hosts Slovakia's largest university, Comenius University, founded in 1919. It maintains a robust public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trolleybuses. The city's location along the Danube River makes it an important stop for river cruises between Vienna and Budapest.