Hviezdoslavovo námestie (Bratislava)
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Hviezdoslavovo námestie (literally Hviezdoslav Square) is one of the best-known squares in Bratislava. It is located in the Old Town, between the New Bridge and the Slovak National Theatre. The square is named after Pavol Országh Hviezdoslav.
[edit] History
(Earlier names:Kossuth Lajos tér-Kossuth Lajos platz, Radetzky tér-Radetzky platz,Séta tér-Promenade) The square underwent major reconstruction at the end of the 20th century. Before reconstruction, it looked like a small city park; now it looks like a city promenade.
On February 24, 2005 US President George W. Bush gave a public speech in Hviezdoslav Square during his visit to Bratislava for the Slovakia Summit 2005 with the president of Russia Vladimir Putin.
[edit] Configuration of the square
The square is primarily a pedestrian zone with lots of green, a with podium in the central part for cultural events, and two parallel fountains running along the square. Close to the theatre is the larger-than-life-sized statue of Hviezdoslav.
[edit] Important buildings near the square
Probably the best-known building is the old headquarters of the Slovak National Theatre (opera). On the southern side are the Radisson SAS Carlton hotel, as well as the German and American embassies. On the northern side are many bars and restaurants.
