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Slovakia in 10 Minutes
In a Nutshell
- Capital: Bratislava
- Population: Approx. 5.5 million (2021)
- Official Language: Slovak
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
Breaking Down the Country
Historic Castles
Explore Slovakia's rich history through its numerous well-preserved medieval castles and fortresses scattered across the country.
Slovak Folk Traditions
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Slovakia by learning about traditional folk music, dances, costumes, and handicrafts.
Natural Wonders
Discover Slovakia's diverse landscapes, from the stunning High Tatras mountains to the picturesque national parks and thermal springs.
Timeline of Slovakia
Great Moravia empire is established in present-day Slovakia
Kingdom of Hungary is established, including parts of present-day Slovakia
Treaty of Trianon - Slovakia becomes part of Czechoslovakia
Slovak National Uprising against Nazi Germany
End of World War II, Slovakia becomes part of Czechoslovakia again
Czechoslovakia becomes a communist state
Prague Spring - period of political liberalization in Czechoslovakia
Velvet Revolution - fall of communism in Czechoslovakia
Czechoslovakia peacefully splits into Czech Republic and Slovakia
Slovakia joins NATO
Slovakia adopts the Euro as its currency
Iveta Radicova becomes the first female Prime Minister of Slovakia
Slovakia holds the EU presidency for the first time
Zuzana Caputova becomes the first female President of Slovakia
COVID-19 pandemic hits Slovakia
Slovakia holds parliamentary elections
Matovic government resigns amid political crisis
Eduard Heger becomes the new Prime Minister of Slovakia
Slovakia begins COVID-19 vaccination campaign
Slovakia celebrates 30 years of independence
Vocabulary List
- Bratislava
- The capital city of Slovakia is Bratislava.
- Tatra Mountains
- Slovakia is home to the beautiful Tatra Mountains.
- Slovak
- The official language of Slovakia is Slovak.
- Euro
- Slovakia adopted the Euro currency in 2009.
- ?i?many
- ?i?many is a picturesque village known for its traditional Slovak folk architecture.
- Slovakia
- Slovakia is a landlocked country in Central Europe.
- Pirohy
- Pirohy are a popular Slovak dish, similar to dumplings.
- Slovak National Uprising
- The Slovak National Uprising was a resistance movement during World War II.
- High Tatras
- The High Tatras are a section of the Tatra Mountains located in Slovakia.
- Bratislava Castle
- Bratislava Castle is a historic landmark overlooking the capital city.
Key Facts
This is the information used in the fact matching game
- Slovakia is a landlocked country located in Central Europe.
- Slovakia has a population of approximately 5.4 million people.
- The capital city of Slovakia is Bratislava.
- Slovakia gained independence from Czechoslovakia in 1993.
- Slovakia is a member of the European Union and the Eurozone.
- The official language of Slovakia is Slovak.
- Slovakia is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Tatra Mountains.
- The currency used in Slovakia is the Euro.
- Slovakia has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Hungarian, Austrian, and Czech traditions.
- Slovakia is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and cycling.
- Slovakia has a high concentration of castles and chateaus, with over 180 located throughout the country.
- Slovakia has a temperate continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers.
- Slovakia is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic town of Banska Stiavnica.
- Traditional Slovak cuisine includes dishes such as bryndzove halusky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) and kapustnica (sauerkraut soup).
- Slovakia has a strong tradition of folk music and dance, with many festivals and events celebrating this cultural heritage.
- The Slovak flag consists of three horizontal stripes - white, blue, and red - with the national coat of arms in the center.
- Slovakia has a well-developed public transportation system, including trains, buses, and trams.
- Slovakia has a high standard of living compared to other countries in the region, with a GDP per capita of around $20,000.
- Slovakia has a strong tradition of sports, with ice hockey and football being particularly popular.
- Slovakia has a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, lynx, and wolves, in its national parks and nature reserves.
Why It Matters
Geopolitical Significance
Slovakia’s central location in Europe has positioned it as a key player in regional politics and trade. It shares borders with five countries, making it a crucial link between Eastern and Western Europe. Its membership in the EU and NATO further solidifies its geopolitical importance.
Historical Importance
Slovakia has a rich history intertwined with the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Czechoslovakia, and Soviet influence. The country’s struggle for independence and its role in World War II have shaped its national identity. Notable figures like Alexander Dubček and Milan Rastislav Štefánik have left lasting legacies.
Modern-Day Role
Today, Slovakia is a member of the EU and Eurozone, contributing to the political and economic stability of the region. Its growing economy, particularly in automotive and technology sectors, has positioned it as a key player in the global market. Slovakia’s commitment to renewable energy and environmental sustainability also plays a significant role in modern-day discussions.
Slovakia Games
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