Old Town Bratislava

Today was an easy day. After a continental breakfast in my flat, I headed out to St. Martin’s Cathedral. I saw it from the outside yesterday but didn’t go in. Even after just one day in the city I’m beginning to understand the layout and the Cathedral is only about a 5-minute walk from the flat. It’s the area the cab driver first dropped me off yesterday.

The Cathedral, the largest church in Bratislava, is known for being the Coronation Church of the Kingdom of Hungary from 1563-1830. Until the end of WWI, what became Czechoslovakia was a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In 1993, Czechoslovakia broke into two countries, the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Of course, there are the beautiful stained glass windows.

And a pulpit and gorgeous side altars.

Let’s not forget the main altar.

It was very early and the church had just opened so I had it all to myself. Afterwards, I walked across the street to the river. On the far side of the New Bridge is the UFO Tower. I could have walked across the bridge and gone up in the observation deck…. I didn’t.

I had been out only just over an hour but was already tired and cold so I headed home. Michael’s Gate, the last remaining medieval fortifications and one of the oldest building in town, is my landmark to find the flat. It’s on a side street behind me.

For some reason I was super tired today so when I got home I indulged in a short nap. It was wonderful! I read for while than made a pasta lunch. Once I leave here on Wednesday I’m back in hotels for the next week so I thought I’d take advantage of the kitchen for a few home-cooked meals. It was pretty good.

I decided to visit the Christmas market while it was still light. I know my way back to the flat but the cobblestoned street/sidewalk is treacherous when I can see where I’m putting my feet. It’s a broken ankle waiting to happen if I do it in the dark. I have plenty more markets to visit over the next 2 weeks so I’ll see lots of Christmas lights.

This market is mostly food and drink. I tried a little bit of mulled blackberry wine but I didn’t like it. I’m not wild about red wine so it doesn’t surprise me but I thought I’d give it a try.

I did, though, love the chimney cake. They had these in Budapest but I didn’t get one so I’m glad I found them here.

Most of the food was the same type I saw in Budapest so I don’t feel too bad about eating at home.

After wandering the market I explored a few of the side streets and found Palffy Palace built by Count Palffy in 1747. Its claim to fame is that 6 year old Mozart supposedly gave a concert here in 1762. Not all historians agree but there is a plaque on the wall so the city is going with it.

That was my day; much more relaxing than yesterday. Tomorrow will pretty much be the same but I’ll head away from the river to check out a few places that were closed today.

Have a great night (day) everyone.