Michalská brána
The Bratislava city district of Staré Mesto attracts tourists as well as locals with many attractions, whether cultural, artistic, or historical. Each of them has its own story. Michalská brána is among them as well. It is the only preserved gate from the original four through which people once entered the fortification of medieval Bratislava.
It received its name from the settlement and church of St. Michael, which was located in front of the fortification. In the 16th century, it was demolished due to the Turks. The settlement is now recalled only by a pink gravestone incorporated into the masonry of the tower. It is visible upon entering it, from the inner side, at approximately the height of the third floor.
The tower was built at the end of the 14th century, but throughout its lifetime it underwent many renovations and alterations. It is a fascinating blend of various styles, as there is a noticeable Gothic influence in the lower part of the tower, the upper floors bear hints of the Renaissance, and the elegant tower with a bulbous dome originated during the Baroque period. In the past, a drawbridge, a drawbridge tower, and strong drawbridge gates were also part of it.
The massive tower soars to a height of 51 meters. Once, a trade route to Moravia led through its gate. Today, the marking of the historical coronation route passes through the gate. Balancing on its tip is a copper statue of the Archangel Michael slaying a dragon, created by Peter Eller. Over time, the statue was significantly damaged and was removed from the tower in 1845. During its repair, a box containing literal historical treasures was removed from it. Among others, a copper plate engraved with text about the author of the statue, banknotes and copper coins from the time of the statue's last repair, a list of city council members, and two pieces of parchment. One of them contained text written in Latin. It stated that the statue was crafted during the reign of Maria Theresa and repaired during the reign of Francis I. There was also a list of saints and their relics stored in a silver-plated box.
On the right side, right next to the gate, house number 15 is seemingly glued to Michalská veža. It is a rarity. With its width of 1.3 meters, it is likely the narrowest house in Bratislava, as well as in all of Europe. Another point of interest is the kilometer zero marker with compass points, displaying the distances to 29 European and world capitals. Furthermore, a laser beam is emitted from the southern window of the tower, indicating the route of the original Korzo promenade.
In the Middle Ages, bad deeds were punished in truly cruel ways. There were so-called cages of shame where the offender was placed. When the Bratislava cage of shame was removed and stored in the municipal depot, a pillory was erected in front of Michalská brána. The offender was hung on it with a large, heavy stone ball attached to their leg. Passersby could spit on them.
When you step out onto the balcony of Michalská brána, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the castle hill, the villa neighborhood on the hills, the historical city center, and the individual roofs and towers of Bratislava. Inside the tower is Múzeum zbraní. While climbing up the tower across seven floors, visitors will view medieval weapons and armor, tournament equipment, firearms, and an exhibition of all the crafts related to the defense of the medieval city.
Especially during exam periods, the surroundings of Michalská brána are often full of silently walking students. Rumor has it that if a lazy student manages to walk through the alley under the arches of Michalská brána without uttering a single word, they will surely pass their exam. Whether true or a myth, a large number of them try it every year.
When you come to admire the individual attractions in Bratislava, definitely do not miss Michalská brána, one of the iconic symbols of our capital city. However, not only this place deserves your attention, which is why we recommend making a multi-day trip to Bratislava. The pages accommodation Bratislava and specifically accommodation Bratislava Staré mesto will help you choose the right accommodation, leaving you only with planning your trip.
