Šafárikovo Square

You’re now standing on one of the most beautiful squares in the capital, Šafárikovo Square. What makes it so special are the buildings that surround it, many of which were built in the early 1900s, back when Slovakia was still part of the Kingdom of Hungary. With their vibrant colors and often playful, ornate details, they’re great examples of both Art Nouveau and Gothic design. Art Nouveau first appeared in England in the 1860s before sweeping across Europe and the U.S. It's a style defined by flowing lines, soft curves, and inspiration drawn from nature, think flowers, leaves, animals, and even mythical creatures. During the Belle Époque, between 1900 and 1910, Bratislava embraced this artistic wave just like nearby Vienna and Budapest. It wasn't just buildings, furniture, jewelry, and everyday objects followed the same style. Art Nouveau eventually gave way to Art Deco after World War II, but on Šafárikovo Square, the spirit of the era still lives on. So take a moment, look up, and enjoy some of the finest examples of early 20th-century design the city has to offer.