The square's star attraction is the Franciscan Church, the oldest religious structure in the Old Town. It was consecrated in 1297 but has gone through a few aesthetic changes over the centuries, with Renaissance, rococo, and baroque elements added to the original Gothic structure. Inside the church is a reliquary said to hold the torso of Saint Reparata, who was martyred under the Roman Emperor Decius in the third century.
The square is situated in the pedestrian-only Old Town, so you can only access it by foot.
Franciscan Square is a great spot to stop for a coffee and take in the views.
Admission to the church overlooking the square is free.
The square is located in the northern part of the Old Town, close to Michael's Gate. If you wish to drive, the Garáz Centrum parking lot is located a block away. The nearest tram stops are Centrum, Jesenského, and Kapucínska.
Franciscan Square is a great place for people-watching and sipping coffee or beer in the afternoon or evening. The church is open daily from morning until early evening, but if you want to check out the interiors without attending mass, it’s wise to avoid Sundays or major Catholic feast days.
While the Franciscan Church is the square’s biggest draw, you can also check out the Bratislava City Gallery (Galéria mesta Bratislavy), which features more than 35,000 artworks and documents related to fine arts in Slovakia. There are always a few temporary exhibits on display, plus permanent exhibits showcasing everything from Gothic and baroque paintings to English tapestries.
