Bratislava

Brief history

Historians believe that the area of Bratislava was already inhabited in 5000 BC. Celts founded their own settlement there in 200 BC. Between the 1st and the 4th century, the area was under Roman influence. The Romans introduced wine production to the area, which has remained part of Bratislava's industry to this today. The Slavs arrived from the East in the 5th and 6th centuries and were actively involved in the political life of the region. In the 10th century the city became part of the territory of Pressburg, and because of its strategic position it became the object of many attacks. But this position also brought economic development. Later, in 1536, the city became the capital of Hungary, being absorbed by the Austrian Habsburg monarchy, which in and of itself marked a new era of development. The city thrived in the 18th century - the population trippled, many castles, churches, monasteries and streets were built. In the end of the 18th century, Bratislava became the center of the Slovak national movement. The history of the city after this period is closely related to major events in the history of Europe. At the beginning of the 20th century the population is 42% German, 41% Hungarian and 15% Slovak. In 1919, Bratislava became officially the capital of Czechoslovakia. The name Bratislava was officially adopted on 27 March 1919. In 1993 it became the capital of the newly formed Slovak Republic.