by Jesse Russell (Author)
Slovakia Tourism. A Travel Guide. This small beautiful country is widely known for its magnificent alpine ski resorts and numerous natural and historic places of interest. The most famous historic landmarks are located in the capital of the country, the city of Bratislava. The oldest university in the country is also located here. This is Universitas Istropolitana that was open in 1465. Nowadays, only one faculty works in ancient buildings of the university the faculty of scenic art. The Bratislava Castle is one more sight of the medieval period. First mentions of the castle belong to the 10th century. During its centuries-long history the castle was rebuilt several times and changed its design significantly, until it was completely destroyed by fire in 1811. The ruins remained untouched for more than a hundred years and restoration of the castle started only in the 20th century. These days, the castle provides space for treasury and the National Museum. The central square of Bratislava is home to a famous landmark Star radnica. This is a whole complex of beautiful buildings constructed in different years. The main town hall building was constructed in the 14th century. Two more buildings were added after the reconstruction, which took place in 1599, so nowadays the complex features a beautiful combination of renaissance and baroque styles. The town hall was a witness to many important historic events. In the 19th century a cannon smashed into the wall of the town hall. The cannon has remained there till our days and keeps reminding visitors of the Napoleon wars.