Bratislava Castle, Bratislava (must see)

Bratislava Castle is the most conspicuous landmark in the city of Bratislava. It stands on an isolated rocky hill above the city and was built and rebuilt continuously between the 9th and 18th centuries.

The site of the castle has been of strategic importance for much of the area's history. It is located roughly in the center of Europe and, more importantly, along the route between the Carpathians and the Alps, at a convenient crossing point on the Danube River.

The hill and surrounding area have hosted settlements since before the early Iron Age. Evidence suggests that the first settlements here appeared around 3,500 BC. In those early centuries, the hill served as an acropolis for the surrounding settlement.

Archaeological evidence reveals a history of Celtic and Roman occupation through 500 AD. Construction of the present castle began in the 10th century, although work progressed intermittently over the following centuries. As the need for defense increased within the Kingdom of Hungary, the castle was expanded and fortified.

The castle lost much of its importance in the late 18th century and was eventually largely abandoned. Its buildings were used as a seminary and later as military barracks. After a devastating fire in 1811, the castle remained in ruins for well over a century.

A massive restoration effort began in 1957 and was largely completed in 1968. The 1968 Federation Law, which established the Czech Socialist Republic and the Slovak Socialist Republic within federal Czechoslovakia, was signed at the castle. Many years later, the constitution of independent Slovakia was also signed in the castle's Knights' Hall.

The castle has been beautifully restored and today houses exhibitions of the Slovak National Museum. Even if you choose not to visit the museum and interior rooms, walking around the castle grounds and enjoying the views of the city and the Danube is not to be missed.