St. Elizabeth's Church, known as the Blue Church, in Bratislava. (source: TASR)
After a long break, Spectacular Slovakia is back with a brand-new series. In the premiere episode, host Oscar Brophy teams up with Jakub Hanzel, founder of the Discover Bratislava tour company, to explore the capital’s captivating history and relaxed charm.
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Hanzel highlights the Old Bridge as offering the best view of the city, where visitors can take in Bratislava’s skyline – featuring St Martin’s Cathedral, the Slavín war memorial, and the UFO Bridge, all set against the backdrop of the historic castle. This often-overlooked gem, once a border crossing between Czechoslovakia and Hungary, has a rich history – from tanks rolling through in 1968 to its role as a tram link between Bratislava and Vienna’s opera houses – making it a must-see for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Bratislava’s central location, nestled between Vienna, Budapest and Prague, is described as both “a curse and a blessing”. Once a contested battleground, it now thrives as a Schengen hub, allowing visitors to cycle to Austria or Hungary in a matter of hours. Unlike its busier neighbours, Bratislava’s laid-back vibe lets travellers explore the Old Town without the hassle of crowds or aggressive vendors – though Hanzel warns against visiting in July, the peak tourist month, when the city’s calm is briefly disrupted. Bratislava’s historical role as the coronation capital of the Kingdom of Hungary for 270 years, far outshining its 32 years as Slovakia’s capital, adds a fascinating layer to its identity.
Architecturally, the inverted pyramid stands out as a bold, brutalist must-see – often dubbed one of the world’s ugliest buildings – contrasting sharply with the city’s baroque and secessionist treasures. For off-the-beaten-path explorers, Hanzel points to Bratislava’s unique bunkers: First World War caverns in the Carpathian Mountains, Second World War bunkers in Petržalka, and an abandoned Soviet military base near Devín Castle. These hidden sites, combined with the city’s relaxed charm, make Bratislava a truly distinctive destination.
Got thoughts or feedback? Reach out at spectator@spectator.sk.
