Concrete thinking

Hello! I am really enjoying my time in Bratislava. I had to pinch myself as I walked around the city today. We visited the castle in Bratislava and many beautiful churches and squares. Around every corner, there are ornamental buildings and fountains. Eventually, I had to stop taking pictures and just soak it in. Everything is worthy of a picture. We passed the statue called Cumil (The Watcher). It's good luck to rub his head.

I want to send a small warning to my future visitors. I came to Slovakia with romantic images in my head. I expected it to be like other European countries I have visited, and it isn't. The first thing you will notice are the massive concrete buildings that are covered in graffiti. They are the Communists' left-overs. They are bulky, gray, and depressing. There are lovely things to see in Slovakia, but they don't knock you over like they might in Rome or Paris. You will see amazing things here, but it may take extra time and effort. I promise it will be worth it.













On the right is Petržalka, a region of Bratislava that is called "The Concrete Jungle." This is the view from across the Danube. I was standing at the castle.




Some efforts have been made to make the buildings more attractive. They are often covered in stucco and painted very bright colors. I pass these buildings on my way to school in Banská Bystrica.