The Primate's Palace in Bratislava is one of the most important and beautiful historical buildings in the capital of Slovakia. It is located on the Primacial Square in the historic center of the city, not far from the Main Square and the Old Town Hall. The palace is significant not only for its architecture, but also for the historical events that took place there.
The Primate's Palace was built between 1778 and 1781 for the Ostrihom Archbishop Jozef Batthyányi, who was the Primate of Hungary. The palace was designed and built by the architect Melchior Hefele in the neoclassical style. Its construction was motivated by the need for a representative residence for the archbishop, who at that time played an important role in the political and religious life of Hungary.
An important event took place in the Primate's Palace in 1805 - the signing of the so-called of the Peace of Bratislava between France and Austria after the Battle of Slavkov, where Napoleon Bonaparte achieved a decisive victory. This peace document was signed in the Palace's Hall of Mirrors, which is still one of its most beautiful interiors.
The Primate's Palace is considered one of the most beautiful examples of neoclassical architecture in Bratislava. The facade of the palace is symmetrical and elegant, with a prominent central ridge, which is topped by a tympanum with the coat of arms of Archbishop Batthyányi. At the top of the tympanum is a statue of St. George, the archbishop's patron.
The interior of the palace is equally impressive, with magnificent state rooms, among which the Hall of Mirrors stands out, where important social and political events took place. Another interesting space is the chapel, which was used for the archbishop's private prayers.
One of the rarest artistic treasures in the Primate's Palace are the so-called English tapestries from the 17th century. These beautiful tapestries depict the story of the tragic love between Hero and Leander, inspired by ancient mythology. The tapestries are unique not only for their beauty, but also for the fact that they were only found in 1903 during the reconstruction of the palace, when they were discovered embedded in the walls of one of the rooms.
Today, the Primate's Palace serves as the residence of the mayor of Bratislava and is also open to the public. Visitors can explore its magnificent interiors, including the Hall of Mirrors and a gallery that exhibits rare tapestries.
The palace is often used for official meetings, concerts, exhibitions and other cultural events. Its courtyard, which is open to the public, is a popular place to relax and socialize.