Bratislava – European River Cruise

This was a new destination for us and we didn’t quite know what to expect.  Our first visit this morning was at Bratislava Castle which locals call the “upside down table” due to the four towers. The castle now serves as the seat of the Slovak National Council and it also houses collections of the Slovak National Museum, including exhibits of ancient treasures and historical artifacts. Unfortunately, we only had access to the castle courtyard (and toilets!), and there was really nothing of interest to see – a bit disappointing. Being up on a hill, it was a bit chilly in the morning and most of us were ready to head for our next destination.

The old city centre was much more interesting.  An important historical monument is St. Martin’s Cathedral which was consecrated in 1452. In this cathedral 19 coronations took place. During your tour, you’ll see little golden crowns in the pavement. These mark the route that was taken by kings and queens during the coronation procession which starts at St. Martin Dom. Another claim to fame for the cathedral was that Beethoven‘s Missa Solemnis was played for the first time in this church on 13th November 1835.  

At No. 10 Panska Street is Mozart House (Palffy Palace) . Mozart was only 6 years old when he was invited to give a concert here in 1762. This building is now the Austrian embassy. In Venturska Ulica you’ll also see a plaque commemorating Franz Liszt. He too gave a concert in Bratislava, at age 9.

Around the city centre, you’ll see a number of interesting bronze sculptures, one of whom Tony got really friendly with.  This one appropriately stands near the Cafe Paparazzi where we stopped for lunch.

Helen