Battle of Bratislava

An annual cultural-history festival centred on a reenactment of the 1620 siege of Bratislava (then Prešporok): imperial commander Dampierre launched a surprise assault to seize the city from Gabriel Bethlen's forces. The battle raged from dawn until 4 PM — Dampierre himself led three charges before being fatally shot in the final assault, forcing his mercenaries to retreat to Vienna. The festival also includes a historical camp, displays of period life and military regiments, live music, and a period procession through the Old Town. Free entry, open 10:00–19:00.