3 Best Sights in Slovakia

One of Bratislava's newer art galleries is quickly becoming one of its best. The striking space-age stacking of concentric rings in its architecture has earned it the nickname "small Guggenheim." The cool design is matched by outstanding Slovak paintings and sculptures from the 19th century to present (starting at the 4th floor and working down). Notable artists among the 46 on display include Ladislav Mednyanszky, Andrej Barcik, and Vladimir Kompanek. The gallery's lighting, although not instantly noticeable, plays a big role in the presentation, with almost 500 Reggiani LED luminaries working in conjunction with the sunlight pouring down through the large, round ceiling window.

The centerpiece of old Bratislava and the city's most dominant sight, the castle overlooks the Danube River from its hilltop position. Rebuilt and burned several times in its 1000-plus year history, it was reduced to just its shell during the Napoleonic wars. Serious renovation began in the 1960s when exhibition rooms were installed. An even larger rebuilding started in 2008 and is now more or less completed. The interior and exhibitions are open to visitors and managed by the Slovak National Museum. The castle grounds are well worth a stroll and afford some of the best views of the city.

St. Martin's Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic archdiocese and one of Slovakia's most prized architectural gems. Built on the foundations of an earlier Romanesque church, this Gothic construction was officially opened and consecrated in 1452. It served as a defensive structure as well, given its position along the city walls. Today, the three-aisle interior is home to astonishingly beautiful artwork. Stop and appreciate works inside the four chapels, the rib vault ceiling, and the exquisite stained-glass windows. During the Turkish occupation, it served as the coronation site for 11 kings of Hungary. The crypt is also open to visitors.