Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is located just 40 miles from Vienna and is perfect for a day trip or well worth a visit on its own. On the Danube River at the foothills of the Little Carpathian Mountains, historically it was one of the most important cities of the Austrian-Hunggarian Empire. Located on a crossroads between the cultures of the Mediterranean and Orient and those of inland continental Europe, this city of 500,000 has a colorful and tumultuous history.

The beautifully renovated Old Town with buildings of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements displays its original charm. From the royal castle on a clear day one can see as far as Vienna and Hungary. Empress Maria Theresa was crowned here along with 19 other monarchs, giving Bratislava the nickname ‘Coronation Town.’ The Jewish population played a major role in history, at some times making up one-third of the entire population. Jewish life can be traced back to medieval times while today’s Jewish museum is located on Ulica Zidovska, Jewish Street.

By far the main reason Jews from the world over are coming to Bratislava is to learn about the great rabbinic scholar Chatam Sofer. Rabbi Moshe Sofer (1762 – 1839), born in Frankfurt, became head Rabbi in Bratislava in 1806, leading the community for the next three decades. The halachic authority of his time, his grave and the mausoleum created around it receives a steady stream of visitors. The Museum of Jewish Culture (established 1993) is aimed at raising the awareness of the rich Jewish- Slovak legacy. It is located in the only preserved house of the former Jewish neighborhood. A visit to this small but important museum is a must for any visitor.

There is also a small memorial to Raoul Wallenberg, the Swedish diplomat who saved tens of thousands of Jewish lives, amongst them an important number from Bratislava. He was one of the first Righteous Gentiles to be listed at Yad Vashem.

Emerging from the Communist era, young Jews of Slovakia are being encouraged to embrace their heritage. The Heydukova Street Synagogue (built in the 1920s) is in the heart of the city and open for services. One can have a meal at the Jewish restaurant Chez David. There is a small (approximately 1000 people) but diverse Jewish community.

Welcome to Bratislava!

Tour Options
- Package for cruise ship passengers (Danube river cruise)
- Day trip from Vienna
- 3-hour walking/driving tour of Jewish sites