Primacial Palace — Attraction in Bratislava

The Primate’s Palace is one of the most beautiful classicist buildings in Slovakia. Portraits of Hungarian rulers are exhibited in the picture gallery. An impressive part of the gallery is a collection of six tapestries found in the reconstruction of the palace. The Hall of Mirrors is also representative along with five salons furnished with period furniture and named after the color of the walls – green, brown, blue, red and gold.

On the roof are allegorical statues by J. Kögler and F. Prokop as well as vases by J. A. Messerschmidt. Atop the tympanum is the coat of arms of Cardinal Jozef Batthyányi, the first occupant of the palace; an iron model of his hat, weighing 150kg, crowns the building.

The allegorical statutes along the roofline were intended to represent the cardinal’s human qualities and achievements. The Treat of Bratislava between France and Austria was signed in the palace’s Hall of Mirrors on 26 December, 1805. Today the palace is the office of the mayor of Bratislava, and the superb Hall of Mirrors is now used to host concerts.

The palace also contains a rare collection of English tapestries from the 17th century. They were produced at the royal tapestry works in the English town of Mortlake, but were only rediscovered during a reconstruction in 1903, and are undoubtedly worth a visit. The exquisite fountain of St George, depicting the legendary knight slaying the dragon, stands in the square inner courtyard of the Primate’s Palace. According to one legend the figure of St George represents the archbishop, and his fight with the dragon symbolises the efforts of the Catholic Church to banish the Reformation from the city. Legend has it that St George saved the virgin Dubravka from the dragon, and as a reward gained her hand in marriage. Each year, on St George’s Day, the stone statue is suppose to come to life, turn around on his horse and bow to the inhabitants...

The Primacial Palace, also known as the Primate's Palace, is a magnificent Baroque-style building located in the heart of Bratislava, Slovakia. Built in the late 18th century, it served as the residence of the Archbishop of Esztergom, the highest-ranking Catholic cleric in the Kingdom of Hungary.

Key features:

Hall of Mirrors:

The palace is most famous for its grand "Hall of Mirrors," a lavish room with intricate mirror work, often used for concerts and special events.

Historical significance:

The Treaty of Bratislava, a significant agreement between France and Austria, was signed in the palace in 1805.

Architectural style:

The palace showcases a classicist Baroque facade with ornate details and a symmetrical design.

Current use:

Today, the Primacial Palace is the seat of the Mayor of Bratislava and houses a collection of art and artifacts related to the region's history. The Primate's Palace (1778-1781) was built on property originally belonging to the archbishop of Esztergom. The facade of the palace is in strictly classical style. The Primate's Palace is one of the most beautiful classicist buildings in Slovakia. Portraits of Hungarian rulers are exhibited in the...

Visiting the Primate's Palace in Bratislava was an exceptional experience! The palace's stunning neoclassical architecture, with its elegant pink and white facade, immediately captures your attention. As you step inside, the Hall of Mirrors stands out as a highlight, boasting grand chandeliers, beautifully decorated ceilings, and a sense of historical grandeur.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the palace is its collection of rare English tapestries from the 17th century, which depict the tragic love story of Hero and Leander. These tapestries are remarkably well-preserved and offer a unique insight into the artistic achievements of that era.

The palace courtyard, with its serene atmosphere and charming fountain, provides a perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty of the surroundings. The informative displays throughout the palace offer a deep dive into its historical and cultural significance, making the visit both educational and enjoyable.

The Primate's Palace is a must-visit for anyone in Bratislava, offering a rich blend of history, art, and architecture. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the cultural heritage of the city. Highly...