Trenčín

Located in the western part of the country less than an hour from the Czech border, Trenčín is dominated by its large castle perched atop a hill above the city. The walkable old town features well preserved buildings and structures reflecting different periods in the city's long history. The Vah river, the longest river located entirely in Slovakia, divides the old part of the city from the newer parts of town where most people live. Trenčín is home to a major university, named after Alexander Dubček, the First Secretary in the runup to the reform movement that came to be known as Prague Spring, who was deposed by the Communists following the military intervention in 1969. In addition to being an ethnic Slovak, Dubček continued to be seen as one of the "good" Communists, which explains why the university bears his name.

Trenčín is currently enjoying a moment in the international limelight; it is one of two cities designated a European Capital of Culture.

All photos are mine.