Bratislava, Slovakia

We docked in Bratislava next to this traditional building with the interesting tiled roof. I am not sure what the building is since there was no signs in of any kind in any language to give me a clue. But is is interesting none the less.

In contrast, this modern bridge span was just up river from our dock. An elevator in one of the pillars transports people to a restaurant at the top. Despite its circular appearance, it does not revolve. The restaurant was closed for renovations so we could not go up to check out the views.

Much of the Old Town area is for pedestrians only. This does not mean narrow streets and uneven terrain. On the contrast it is an area of spacious squares where people can relax in a car-free zone.

The Primate's Palace on the right was built in the 18th century and was the temporal residence of the Slovak President until 1996. Without a doubt it is the most beautiful Classicist sturctures in Bratislava.

It was obvious to us from our perspective on the dock that Bratislava is a city of contrasts. Our observation was confirmed when we visited the ancient castle that now overlooks Soviet Housing Projects on the opposite bank of the Danube.

The housing development across the Danube is a series of identical plain gray boxes lined up in a grid pattern. It is devoid of color or artful detail work like the intricate tiled roofes in the old city.

A closer inspection of the castle shows the remnants of its roots with the remains of a gothic window visible on its second level.

The Clocktower on the right was part of the city's fortification that has been preserved from medieval times. and is a focal point of the old town.

There are many fountains in the Old Town. The Fountain on the right depicts St. George the Dragon Slayer.

Our guide told us that this fountain depicting little boys peeing was originally destined for the town square. However, upon seeing it realized, the opinion was that it was not a suitable subject for a Public Square.

The Fountain was modified for public consumption. Each of the boys is now holding a large fish in front of them and the water squirts out of the fishes mouth.

The Slovak National Theater on the right hosts the Opera and Ballet

On the right is the Symphony Hall. It appears there was a rehearsal this afternoon since we noted several musicians, instruments in hand were leaving that facility.

An image of Napoleon Bonapart is leaning on a park bench. He appears to be engaged in conversation with people who sit in front of him on this bench.

Another attention grabber is this smiling gentleman tipping his hat in a welcoming gesture to shoppers entering this street.

This is in contrast to symbolic statues of previous eras like the winged warrior carrying the golden frond. Considering that Bratislava's history spans more than a millineum it is not surprising that it is a city of such remarkable contrasts.