Every week The Slovak Spectator brings you a selection of three short stories from across Slovakia from which pessimism and negativity are absent.
Fireflies light up Bratislava’s forests in brief summer spectacle
Fireflies in the woods (source: Fotolia)
For a few fleeting nights this summer, parts of Bratislava’s forests have come alive after dark with the glow of fireflies – and the natural light show is now entering its final days.
The insects, in the last phase of their mating season, can still be seen in the evenings around Kamzík, Železná studnička, Pekná cesta, and along the Danube in the Pečniansky forest.
“It’s a beautiful nighttime show,” said Michal Noga from Bratislava City Forests. Fireflies begin to appear about half an hour after sunset, using brief flashes of light to attract mates.
Experts urge visitors to move quietly, avoid artificial lighting, and refrain from touching the fireflies, which are sensitive to disturbance and light pollution.
Bratislava pizzeria ranks among Europe’s top 10
One of Europe’s top pizzerias can now be found in the heart of Bratislava. Sapori Italiani U Taliana, run by Sardinian chef Andrea Ena, has soared to 9th place in the prestigious 50 Top Pizza Europe 2025 ranking – up from 36th last year.
The restaurant is the only Slovak entry on the list and now stands alongside culinary heavyweights from Italy, the UK, and beyond. The top spot once again went to Napoli on the Road in London, where chef Michele Pascarella retained his title as Europe’s pizza king.
For pizza lovers travelling across the continent, Bratislava’s U Taliana has officially become a must-stop destination.
Spanish soldiers bring smiles to Bratislava hospital
Visit to the Paediatric Hospital in Bratislava (source: Armed Forces of Spain)
On 23 June, Spanish soldiers stationed in Slovakia paid a visit to a paediatric hospital in Bratislava as part of a civil-military cooperation initiative aimed at strengthening community relations.
Organised by the Spanish Embassy, the visit saw troops meet young patients recovering from serious injuries. The soldiers handed out torches – described as a symbol of hope – donated by Spain’s Ministry of Defence.
The event was supported by the Slovak civic organisation Detská Chirurgia and highlighted the growing cooperation between Spanish forces and local communities.
Spain currently leads NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence in Slovakia, with around 800 Spanish troops deployed alongside other allied forces to reinforce the Alliance’s eastern flank.
Some feel-good stories published by The Slovak Spectator for you to enjoy:
Medieval gold ring unearthed in Slovakia holds Sri Lankan surprise.
Bratislava-Copenhagen route takes off again after a decade. Norwegian Air restores direct flights linking Slovak capital with the Nordics.
Researchers trial humanoid robot with schoolchildren as part of push to integrate AI into everyday traffic safety.
From Prague to Paris, Slovaks abroad unite to defend democracy.
Sun, sand and Slovakia! New lakeside beach opens in Liptovský Mikuláš.
Catching up with science in Slovakia: New SAV chair and grant for scientists.
A comedian’s guide to Košice, the city that is better than you think.
Meme of the week: Rubicon in doubt
Caption: The top professionals were hired to prepare the site for Kanye West’s concert. (We’re managing!)
As you may have heard, controversial American rapper Ye (formerly Kanye West) is expected to headline the Rubicon Festival in Bratislava later this month – marking his first major European performance in over a decade.
That is despite the fact he recently released a track titled “Heil Hitler” and has long been associated with antisemitic views. Australia has reportedly barred him from entering the country over the song.
But West is not the only issue plaguing the hip hop festival.
According to reports, the field where Rubicon is supposed to take place – scheduled for 18–20 July – is still covered in ripening wheat. With the festival now just days away, it is increasingly unclear whether the site will be ready in time.
Even the organisers appeared to acknowledge the chaos, posting cryptically: “Not everything always goes as planned.”
That was all the satire site Zomri needed. It promptly shared a photo of Slovak President Peter Pellegrini – well known for PR shots involving gardening and tractor work – suggesting he might be just the man to help with the harvest and save the festival. Who else, if not the president himself?
But the problems go beyond overgrown fields. The sale of tickets has been suspended, several rappers have pulled out, and organisers have been widely criticised for poor communication.
The question now echoing across social media: Is the festival actually going to happen?
You can send me your tips for good news stories about Slovakia or funny memes at: kseniia.husieva@spectator.sk. Thank you!
