Kick-off in Slovakia

2.7. 20

Today we continue past Vienna and Bratislava to Nitra in Slovakia. Gerhard is driving old-fashioned because it's only 143 km and we have plenty of time. Along the way, we stop at a rest area for lunch and enjoy our leftover pizza from last night.

We have booked a night at the “Comfort” hotel in the city center, and we find it quite comfortable... After checking in, we go on a city tour. Nitra is the oldest city in Slovakia and is located on the banks of the river of the same name. It was founded in the early 9th century as part of the Great Moravian Empire. At that time, one of the oldest churches in the country was also built on the castle hill.

So let's go!

First, we explore the compact old town with its beautifully designed pedestrian zone.

Here is the “Spielende Uhr” (Playing Clock), which plays a melody at noon. Unfortunately, we arrive here later.

There are many shops and restaurants. We stroll along the street and then climb up to the castle hill, even in the scorching 30°C heat. In front of the castle gate, there is a monument of the two Slavic apostles Cyril and Methodius, who christianized the Slavic Empire at that time.

In the castle courtyard, the sacred buildings of the bishop's cathedral and the palace are impressive. In the upper part of the castle complex, there is a monument of Pope John Paul II in memory of his visit in 1995.

The cathedral is magnificently designed and adorned with beautiful wall paintings. Finally, we visit the museum, where the history of Slavization is documented. The treasure chamber contains valuable original liturgical objects.

From up here, there is also a beautiful view over the city and the surrounding area.

Then we descend back to the old town. First of all, we urgently need some ice cream! Then we return to the hotel to rest by walking through the pedestrian zone.

In the evening, we go back to the city. Today we will have an Indian dinner.