Luxury hotel holiday Grandhotel Stary Smokovec Tatras mountains

Highlights of Slovakia

One of the youngest capital cities in Europe, having become the capital after Slovakia became an independent state in 1993, Bratislava is the setting of many important historical events in European history. After the capture of Buda by the Turks in 1541, it was the capital of Hungary for nearly 200 years, and in the 19th century it became the centre of the Slovak independence movement. This historical significance is clear to see in the Old Town, which consists of two interlinked squares, one of which was part of the coronation route of the Hungarian kings, now marked by golden crowns embedded in the pavement. Other buildings such as the Primate’s Palace and St Martin’s Cathedral combine different eras of architecture, showing the city’s importance throughout many centuries. Set above it all is Bratislava Castle; perched on a large, rocky hill above the Danube, Bratislava’s stronghold dates back to before the year 907. This forbidding monument allows its visitors to enjoy magnificent views over the city as well as several exhibitions from the Slovak National Museum. Venture further outwards and you reach the great plain of the Danube river and the gentle slopes of the Small Carpathian Mountains. The central region of Slovakia is widely considered to be the true heart of the country, not just geographically, but also in a spiritual sense. It was here, in 1861, that the plan for national rebirth was unveiled, here the Slovak language was codified for the first time, and here the Slovak National Uprising against the Nazis broke out in 1944. The formidable Tatras mountains are situated in the northern part of the region; shrouded in legend, these mountains attract visitors throughout the year for rock-climbing, hiking and skiing. This region therefore has something to provide not only for those interested in history and folklore, but also for sports enthusiasts.

Cultural highlights of Slovakia

Situated in the Central Slovakian region is Bojnice Castle, one of Slovakia’s greatest tourist attractions. Originally built in the 12th century, this romantic, turreted building has passed through the hands of multiple powerful owners over the centuries, each of whom left their influence on the architecture. Around the castle, Bojnice park is home to events during the summer season. For the most cultural experiences Slovakia can offer, East Slovakia is often considered the most fascinating part of the country, due primarily to the large number of towns that have maintained or restored their medieval character and the beauty of its natural environment. Slovensky kras delights its visitors with the natural riches of the four great limestone caves that are open to visitors. For a taste of some authentic Slovak entertainment, Bratislava plays host to multiple theatre groups, orchestras and music festivals. The best-known Slovak festival of popular music is Bratislava Lyre, which used to be one of the flagship national entertainment events under Communist rule, and now is a nationwide song festival.