Slovakia is a landlocked country located in Central Europe.

It shares borders with several countries, including Poland to the north, Ukraine to the east, Hungary to the south, Austria to the southwest, and the Czech Republic to the northwest. Slovakia was formerly part of Czechoslovakia, which existed as a single country until it peacefully split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993, an event often referred to as the “Velvet Divorce.”

Capital and Largest City

The capital of Slovakia is Bratislava, which is also the largest city in the country. Bratislava is situated along the banks of the Danube River and is known for its historic architecture and cultural attractions.

Language

Slovak is the official language of Slovakia. Hungarian is also spoken by a significant minority in the southern part of the country, especially near the Hungarian border.

Geography

Slovakia is characterized by diverse landscapes, including the Carpathian Mountains in the north, which are part of the larger Carpathian mountain range. The Tatras, a subrange of the Carpathians, are particularly popular for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. The country also features lowlands and fertile plains in the south.

Economy

Slovakia has a mixed economy, with a strong emphasis on automotive manufacturing, electronics, and information technology. The country is known for hosting several international car manufacturers and has become an important hub for the automotive industry in Europe.

European Union and Eurozone

Slovakia became a member of the European Union (EU) in 2004 and adopted the euro as its official currency in 2009. Membership in these organizations has contributed to Slovakia’s economic growth and stability.

Culture

Slovak culture is influenced by both Slavic and Western European traditions. Folk traditions and music are an important part of Slovak culture, and the country is known for its traditional wooden architecture, particularly in rural areas. Slovak cuisine includes hearty dishes like bryndzové halušky (dumplings with sheep cheese) and kapustnica (cabbage soup).

Tourism

Slovakia has become increasingly popular as a tourist destination, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The High Tatras National Park, the Slovak Paradise National Park, and the Slovak Karst are all notable natural attractions. Bratislava, with its historical Old Town and castle, is also a major tourist destination.

Government

Slovakia is a parliamentary republic with a democratic form of government. The President is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The National Council of the Slovak Republic is the country’s legislative body.

Slovakia has undergone significant political, economic, and cultural changes since gaining independence in 1993, and it continues to play an active role in European affairs as a member of the European Union and other international organizations.