Slovakia

The Republic of Slovakia is a small, landlocked country located in Central Europe.  It borders Austria and the Czech Republic to the west, Ukraine to the east, Poland to the North and Hungary to the south.  The north and central part of the country is quite mountainous, whereas the east and the southern parts are flatter and most of the farming and agriculture is centred there.  The Danube river runs through the country and connects the capital city, Bratislava, with other European cities such as Budapest and Vienna. Other major rivers are the Vah and Hron. 

Slovakia has been a member of the EU since May 2004 and is also a member of NATO and other organizations. The currency is the Slovak Crown (SKK) but plans are in the works to adopt the Euro by 2009. The official language is Slovak but Hungarian is widely spoken in the south of the country.  The largest cities are Bratislava, Kosice, Presov, Nitra, Silina and Banska Bvstrica.  The climate in Slovakia varies according to the elevation but basically provides for warm summers and cold winters, with snow on the mountains. 

The Carpathian Mountains cross most of the north part of the country and the spectacular High Tatras provide popular skiing and recreational areas.  (www.skislovakia.sk).

As with any mountainous areas there are also many lakes, caves, and picturesque valleys. Due to natural geothermic lakes there are also popular health spas. The countryside is rich with history, unspoiled and picturesque, with many castles, quaint medieval villages and towns to be explored. 

Websites:  www.slovakiatourism.sk   www.slovakia.org

Bratislava

The capital city of Slovakia, Bratislava, is situated on the Danube in the southwest of the country, approx. 38 miles (60km) from Vienna.  The city is rich with old world charm and history with a fascinating historic old town area which is pedestrianised, with cobbled streets and lovely restored baroque architecture.  It is an area that has been discovered and is developing fast and consequently investors are taking a great interest in opportunities there. There is a mix of cultures from historical struggles and the proximity with Hungary and the Czech Republic which all adds to the diversity and interest. 

Some of the places to see on your visit include the thirteenth century St. Martin’s Cathedral where the coronation of many Hungarian monarchs, such as Empress Maria Theresa, took place.  There are also several churches with copper domes.  Bratislava Castle and Museum is located high above the Danube and is packed with many historical items of furniture, coronation costumes, musical instruments and crafts.  For great views of the city, go to Michael’s Tower which dates from the fourteenth century. The Old Town Hall and Museum contains exhibitions of dungeons and torture instruments. The Slovak National Museum is located above the Danube and contains many ancient works of art. The Primate’s Palace is filled with fascinating historical information and artifacts.

There are many music festivals throughout the year, of all genres, including a jazz festival in October and a film festival. From November to the end of December they have a festive Christmas Market.

Website:  www.bratislava.sk

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