Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is situated on the banks of the Danube River. Bratislava has a long history, filled with battles and high-intensity battles that have led to the dethroning of rulers. One of the main reasons for these battles was the constant fight between the European superpowers and the Austro-Hungarian powers for the possession of this beautiful region. On the top of the hill in Bratislava, lies the great Bratislava Castle, which overlooks the entire area and gives tourists the chance to step back in time to remember the battles Bratislava fought.
Where is Bratislava Castle?
Located very close to the border of Austria and Hungary, Bratislava still shows some signs of its history, reminding tourists again of the region’s past. In addition to its history, Bratislava also has an abundance of vineyards and is surrounded by the Little Carpathian Mountains, making it one of the best places for hikers and trekkers. Bratislava Castle is located on a small hill above Bratislava’s old town.
Bratislava Castle Opening Hours: During the winter season (1 November to 31 March) the palace is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm. During the summer season (1 April to 31 October) the palace is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm.
Bratislava Castle Entry Fee: The basic entry fee will be approximately Rs 811/-. However, on the first Sunday of each month they offer free admission.
About Bratislava Castle
Bratislava Castle dominates Bratislava and is a four-winged castle, including the corner tower now called the Crown Tower. The courtyard of the palace gives visitors a chance to explore underground areas as well as cisterns and water wells. The eastern terrace of the palace is home to the Church of St. Savior and exemplary imitations of the Great Moravia Basilica, both structures dating from the 11th century. As you walk around the park, you’ll have the chance to see all of Bratislava and even the statue of St. Elizabeth. If you want to get the best view of Bratislava, you should head to the Crown Tower, the oldest part of the castle.
History of Bratislava Castle
The castle hill was first inhabited by the Celts, who established a fortified settlement called Oppidum here. Then, for about four centuries, the Roman Empire ruled the territory of Bratislava, after which, during the reign of the Great Moravian Empire, the Slavs built a fortress that became a very important center of that time. By the 10th century, Bratislava became an essential part of the rapidly growing Hungarian state. In the 11th century, a stone castle and the Church of St. Savior were built on this already popular castle hill. Finally, in the 15th century, during the reign of Sigismund of Luxembourg, Bratislava Castle was built, inspired by the Gothic style of architecture. After the palace was completely built, the palace well was dug and even 7 meter thick fortification walls were added to the palace. As soon as King Ferdinand assumed the throne in the 16th century, he ordered that the palace be rebuilt in the Renaissance style, which was torn down again in the 17th century by the Palfi, a hereditary provincial chieftain, and rebuilt in the Baroque style of architecture.
Things to do in Bratislava Castle
Bratislava Castle has survived the toughest times and has been one of the most important fortifications during wars. It has been constructed and rebuilt over the centuries and that is why this palace is a masterpiece of architecture!
1) Visit Bratislava Museum
The History Museum in Bratislava Castle is also known as the Slovak National Museum. The museum displays collections that reflect the successive stages of social development in Slovakia from the Middle Ages to the present day. The museum also gives you the chance to learn more about the life of Slovak locals. Some of the permanent exhibitions you will see here are The Witness of the Past, The Castle Gallery, the Music Hall, The Prints on Bratislava Castle, and How the Time Was Measured exhibition. Don’t miss the exhibition The History and Future of Bratislava Castle, held below the castle courtyard, which will take you through the castle’s eventful history.
Where? The Museum of History is located in Bratislava Castle, on Castle Hill.
Museum Timings: The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm. However, be sure to check the times before you arrive and whether the exhibitions are open.
ticket price: INR 569/- per person
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2) Climb the Crown Tower
From the second floor of the History Museum you will be able to see a mysterious flight of stairs, these stairs will take you through a secret tunnel that will take you to the Crown Tower. At first glance, it looks like a vague, narrow passage with a mirror floor but as you start going down, you will see a path that leads you to the tower. These short paths will take you to a room in the Crown Tower where you can get the best view of the entire city! From one side of the tower you will be able to see the Kamzik Tower which is located in Koliba. The other part of the room offers views of the beautiful Danube River and Austria while other windows in this room give you the chance to see the UFO Tower and the newly built bridge in Bratislava.
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3) Dine at Bratislava Castle Restaurant
Despite roaming around and exploring, you will definitely have rats running around in your stomach. The restaurant at Bratislava Castle is called Hradna Hvizda, a little difficult to pronounce but definitely worth a visit! The interiors of the restaurant are very well decorated, with white tablecloths, burning candles, larger-than-life chandeliers hanging above your head, and comfortable wooden furniture. We suggest you order the deer goulash, served with homemade bread-roll dumplings topped with orange slices on the side, pork tenderloin stuffed with bacon, served with fried potatoes, Grilled gendarme is topped with some delicious garlic dressing, topped with onions. With pea and mint puree. For dessert, you can order the Slovak special—domes sulans with poppy seeds and butter (dumplings) or opt for chocolate and almond cake served with fruits and whipped cream. They also have a seasonal menu that changes with different ingredients and their availability.
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4) Visit the Palace Treasures
One of the most fascinating things about the palace is the treasury, the collection fund of this treasure includes the works of goldsmiths and silversmiths of the old era. If you have an interest in period jewelry and craft style then this should be on your to-do list. The decorative designs reflect the style orientation, aesthetic requirements, artistic skills and even craftsmanship of the different eras to which they belonged. When you look at these jewellery, you will realize the prosperity of the rulers and even the amount of labor that went into creating these pieces of art.
Where? The treasury is located under the main gate on the left side of Bratislava Castle.
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The parts of Bratislava Castle that were accessible to the public were renovated in 2008 and rebuilt in classic Renaissance style. However, when you walk through the palace park you will still find traces of the Great Moravia Basilica. So, when are you booking your tickets to Europe to explore the architecture, museums and history of Bratislava Castle in Slovenia? Contact TourTravelHotels now!
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