Čitáreň U červeného Raka Bratislava
A reading venue
Letná čitáreň U červeného raka? Well, obivously these people are not inclined to international recognition, given the title challenges even the locals, but hopefully my humble effort’s going to change that. Loosely translated as Red Lobster’s Summer Reading Place, let’s shorten this “thrifty” title into Červený Rak (Red Lobster) – named after the once-adjacent pharmacy (1773).
Located in the garden under Michael’s bridge, which connects Michael’s Gate with the rest of the city, in the 14th century this place used to serve as the defensive ditch below the historical fortification. Now that thankfully the times of warfare are the subject of the bitter past, the ditch was transformed intoa garden that houses the Red Lobster – a perfect place to chill out surrounded by greenery and historical buildings.
As the name suggests, Red Lobester is dedicated to reading and literary arts, which is surely a welcome turnabout, given its original purpose. Since 1961 the part of the place was remade into the reading venue and nowadays it’s administered by The Bratislava City Library. Personally, I couldn’t be happier about this move. Just have a look and tell me if you could imagine more glamorous place for literary events. Sitting in this garden, remains of historical fortification all around you, and the stage right before your eyes; these are the perks that make Bratislava so special and personal. After all, once defensive, now cultural, it looks like a great future's ahead.
About this spot
Find your way with 64 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Bratislava
Next Apache
Books, drinks and more books
Next Apache might easily be the place in Bratislava with the most books to have a beer in! Once you discover it, you'll wish you'd known it sooner...
by
Pavel
Šoral
Park Svoradova
A peaceful haven in the city
"Park Svoradova" in Bratislava is pure serenity. Narrow trails, benches, greenery... but it also has an underground artistic side, as well!
by
Pavel
Šoral
The Old Bridge
What an industrial construction
"The Old Bridge" in Bratislava (which isn't so old anymore, as it was renovated recently) is impressive & industrial looking... And it's now car-free!
by
Pavel
Šoral
Cafe Eden
Your Sunday getaway
"Cafe Eden" in the centre of Devín, Bratislava, bears its name with pride. Walls covered in ivy, flowers in every corner, homemade ice cream & pints!
by
Lenka
Encingerová
Franciscan Garden
Relaxed and beautiful
The "Franciscan Garden" in the shadow of the Franciscan church & monastery creates a complex of splendid architecture in Bratislava's Old Town...
by
Pavel
Šoral
St. Nicolaus Church
This place breathes history
"St. Nicolaus Church" in Bratislava, built in 1661, is a historical sight in the center that's usually devoid of people! Lucky you!
by
Pavel
Šoral
Dungeon Pub
Geeks' best hideout
"Dungeon Pub" in Bratislava is a genuine city pub for all rockers, metalheads, larpers, cosplayers or simply board game fans out there!
by
Pavel
Šoral
House of the Good Shepherd
This one stands out
"The House of the Good Shepherd" in Bratislava is one of the only surviving buildings from the 18th century from the Podhradie area. Almost one of a kind.
by
Pavel
Šoral
Rusovce Mansion
Secluded and fascinating
"Rusovce Mansion" in Bratislava is a neo-Gothic-style building that's neglected & still hasn't reached its full potential. It's still worth seeing though!
by
Pavel
Šoral
Čierny Pes
Beer time in the center
Despite its location in the center of Bratislava, "Čierny Pes" (Black Dog) is an excellent place to have a good draft beer for a reasonable price.
by
Pavel
Šoral
Church of the Clarisses
The shrine of art
The "Church of the Clarisses" is a church of historical significance and cathedral-like magnificence in the most historical part of Bratislava...
by
Pavel
Šoral
Zámocká Street
From the town to the castle
There are many ways to get to Bratislava's Castle, but Zámocká street is one of my favorites and is criminally overlooked...
by
Pavel
Šoral
Heading to Bratislava?
64 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Bratislava?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 64 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Bratislava
Get to know our other Spotters from Bratislava
As featured on:
