Michael's Gate

Michael's Gate (Michalská brána) is the last remaining gate of the medieval fortifications that surrounded the city until the 19th century. The slender Baroque tower rises 51 metres above the street, topped with a gilded statue of the Archangel Michael slaying a dragon. The gate was built in the 14th century; the tower was rebuilt to its current form in 1758.

Inside the tower is a small museum of weapons and armour, with exhibits covering medieval and early modern military history in Central Europe. The views from the upper levels over the old town rooftops are excellent. The basement connects to the original city walls and moat.

The street that passes under the gate, Michalská ulica, is the most atmospheric bar street in the old town — lined with small wine bars, cellar restaurants, and cafes that fill up from late afternoon onward. This is where a Bratislava evening tends to begin.

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A story
Michael's Gate is the only surviving gate from the medieval city walls that once enclosed Bratislava. The original gate was built in the 14th century; the Baroque tower was added in 1758. The street passing under it, Michalská, is one of the most atmospheric in the old town — narrow, lined with bars and cafes, and perpetually busy in the evenings.