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Sitting atop a hill in the capital of Slovakia, the Bratislava castle is one
of the city’s most important landmarks.
Bratislava Castle History
It was first mentioned as Preslava castle in 907 and for a long time was
known by this name (or Pressburg in German). By the year 1000, under King Stephen I of Hungary,
the castle was an important one for the Kingdom of Hungary. It helped defend the kingdom in
many battles against Bohemian and German attackers between the 10th and 13th century. The
Bratislava castle was also one of the few ones to defend itself successfully against the Mongol
invasion of 1241.
In 1536, the Pressburg castle became the seat of the Kingdom of Hungary
after present day Hungary was conquered by the Turks. Between 1552 and 1784 the holy crown of
Hungary was hosted in this castle.
Starting with the 18th century, the castle gradually lost its importance. In
1811 a huge accidental fire destroyed it. For much of the 19th century, the castle continued to
deteriorate and parts of it were sold as construction material. There were many plans to turn
the place into government buildings but after World War II it was restored to its last known
state. Restoration work started in 1957 and it was partially re-opened in 1968, but different
types of works around the castle were continuously made.
Visit Bratislava Castle
Getting there
Bratislava castle sits atop of a hill and it is easy to spot from almost any
point of the Slovakian capital. It is easily reachable by foot from the historical centre and
the area is well-signalled.
Bratislava Castle Map
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Bratislava Castle Photos
Click on the images to enlarge
Bratislava Castle courtyard detail - by J_Makk
Bratislava Castle Stairwell - by J_Makk
Bratislava Castle interior museum - by J_Makk
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