LMA Overseas Civic Trip to Bratislava and Prague – March 2026
March proved to be a beautiful month to visit the beautiful Czech cities of Prague and Bratislava. The Charles Bridge pictured above is world-renowned for its historic statues, particularly the striking figures of the archbishops of Prague. These monuments stand as silent sentinels over the water, offering a glimpse into the deep religious and architectural heritage of the city.
Representing the LMA, Mr. Steve Summers exchanged gifts of friendship and goodwill with the Mayor of Prague, Bohuslav Svoboda, and the Mayor of Bratislava, Matúš Vallo. Civic visits of this nature strengthen the bonds of friendship between London and our European counterparts.
LMA members enjoyed a diverse range of excursions, including a visit to the family-run Matysak Winery in Slovakia. The tour of the estate concluded with a tasting of their signature wines.
In keeping with the tradition of LMA Civic international visits, the Prague trip offered a wealth of educational and cultural experiences. A notable highlight was the tour of the British Ambassador’s residence and gardens, graciously hosted by Mr. Matt Field.
Bratislava’s historic Old Town Hall (Stará radnica), situated in the heart of the capital’s Old Town facing the vibrant Main Square, stands as a storied complex with roots stretching back to the 14th century. As the oldest city hall in Slovakia and one of Bratislava’s most ancient stone structures, it evolved from the original Romanesque house of Mayor Jacobus II into a sprawling administrative center. Throughout its history, the building has endured earthquakes and sieges—marked today by a Napoleonic cannonball still lodged in its tower wall—and has undergone numerous architectural transitions, featuring a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Since 1868, it has housed the Bratislava City Museum, preserving the city’s rich heritage while offering visitors panoramic views of the historic center from its iconic tower.