Bratislava this week presented the first part of the large project "Živé námestie" (Living Square) to the public. The main changes affect Námestie SNP (Square of the Slovak National Uprising) and the southern part of Poštová street. This reconstruction, which began in October 2025, aims to transform the city's central squares into a modern, unified, and climate-resilient space.
What has changed on Námestie SNP?
Colorful and multi-level surfaces have been replaced with high-quality granite paving stones, including the pedestrian path between the Polish Institute and the Ministry of Culture of the Slovak Republic. The pedestrian space has been significantly expanded by reducing the area of the asphalt road, and new cycling infrastructure has been added.
The square has become much greener: 18 new trees have been planted, green areas have been expanded, and irrigation and tree planting systems have been installed. Existing greenery has also been renewed and maintained. Additionally, water-saving systems have been installed under the surface to collect rainwater.
New pedestrian paths have appeared on the square, making the central SNP Monument more visible and accessible. New bins and benches have been installed, poles for tram lines have been replaced, and new ramps and stairs have been built to the adjacent hospital and pharmacy. The entire square area has received completely new public lighting.
The renovation also included the monument to Ján Kuciak and Martina Kušnírová, which is now integrated into the new paving to honor the memory of the young people who died.
Further Stages of Reconstruction
Work in the center of Bratislava continues. In the coming days, the marking of pedestrian crossings across the roadway and tram tracks will be completed, as well as the finalization of public lighting and building illumination.
Construction work is ongoing on Námestie Nežnej revolúcie (Square of the Velvet Revolution) and on Špitálska street, where paving is being laid, trees are being planted, tram stops are being installed, and a new boarding platform is being built.
The "Živé námestie" project is divided into three stages. The first phase, which included Námestie SNP and part of Poštová street, is already completed. The second stage focuses on Námestie Nežnej revolúcie, and the third, which has not yet begun, will cover the lower part of the square and Kamenné námestie (Stone Square).
The first and second phases of the project are co-financed by the European Union under the Slovakia Programme. The budget for the first stage is €8,283,908.72, of which €3,313,563.49 is covered by EU funds.
This project is part of a long-term initiative that began in 2016, aiming to create a high-quality and unified public space in the heart of the capital.
You can find more details about the renovation on the website SITA.sk.
