The Slovak Republic: Bratislava

Bratislava was a fabulous city! It was such a unique place with a lot of medieval history and charm mixed with communist-era influence. From nearly everywhere in the city, we could see the UFO tower and bridge. It was built in the 1970s. 

From the top, we enjoyed a fabulous view of Bratislava and the Danube River.  In the background you can see the Bratislava Castle on the hillside.

In the old city, we loved exploring the shops. We found a few places that sold local folk art. We purchased a cornhusk nativity and a few pieces of art. We found out that it is tradition to place a small cornhusk nativity near the top of the Christmas tree. Guess what we will be doing next Christmas?

We also saw some famous sites. This is the Old Town Hall. It is now the Bratislava City Museum.

The tower at the end of this street is Michael's Gate. It is a gate from fortifications that date back to the 14th century. We climbed the tower to see the city.

We found a lot of fun statues throughout the city. The first was Čumil (translation is "the watcher").

The next statue is called Schone Naci. It was built to resemble a real man named Ignac Lamar. Legend states that Mr. Lamar lived in this area at the beginning of the 20th century, and he went crazy when a woman he loved did not return his affections. After that he was seen wandering the streets and offering flowers to random women. And here is Erick trying on his hat. ha ha

This statue is called Napoleon Soldier. Napoleon and his army were in Bratislava in 1805. Apparently this soldier fell in love with a local girl and stayed. Looks like he needs some new shoes...

We also found Hans Christian Andersen. Who knew he was hanging out in Bratislava!? Ha ha!

TJ and David found some medieval weaponry with which to remember this amazing day.

The Slovak Republic: Devin Castle

Over Columbus Day this month, we took a drive over to the Slovak Republic. Our first stop was Devin Castle. Devin castle is located on the shore right where the Danube and Morava rivers meet.

The first settlement in this location is believed to have been built in the 5th century B.C. Throughout history, this fortress had many purposes. It has served as a boundary fortress, a military station, and a trade center. It was blown up by Napoleon’s army in 1809. It soon fell into disrepair. In 1939, it became the property of Czechoslovakia. In 1961, it was declared a national cultural monument (www.welcometobratislava.eu).

We started by walking along the river outside of the castle walls. The weather in Bratislava was sunny and bright. But here, near Devin Castle, the fog was so thick we could barely see the river. There were moments that we couldn't even see the castle. 

Inside the walls, they had an outdoor modern art exhibit on display. It was fun to see some of the unusual art. Also, for curious travelers, the bathrooms were super modern and clean and beautiful. After visiting my share of ruins in Europe, I was so surprised and impressed.

The well (pictured below), which is still located in the courtyard, was dug in the 15th century and is 55 meters deep. The boys poured water into the well and counted (very quickly) to 10 before they heard the water splash. They were very impressed with the depth.

We loved exploring the ruins and watching the goats and a donkey graze in the fields. 

Definitely check out Devin Castle if you are near Bratislava!