Slovakia Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Slovenia, Central European State; 49,035 km², 5.4 million residents (2019).Slovakia, which became independent in 1993, borders in the north to Poland, in the east to Ukraine, in the south to Hungary and in the west to Austria and the Czech Republic. The capital is Bratislava (417,400 residents, 2014).

Country facts

Slovenská Republika / Slovak Republic
Country abbreviation: SK
Area: 49 035 km²
Population (2019): 5.4 million residents
Capital: Bratislava
Main language: Slovak
State: Republic
Head of State: Zuzana Čaputová (President)
Head of Government: Peter Pellegrini
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 19 547
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 18,330
Currency unit: euro
Currency code: EUR
Country number (telephony): 421
Internet domain name: so-called
Time difference compared to Sweden: 0
National Day: September 1 (Constitution Day, 1992)
Independence Day: January 1, 1993

Nature

Land use: forest (40%), agricultural land (40%), other (20%)
Highest mountain: Gerlachovský Štít (2,663 meters above sea level)

Population

Population density (2019): 116 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.1%; birth rate 11 ‰, death rate 10 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (16%), 15-64 (68%), 65- (16%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 74 years, women 80 years
Infant mortality (2019): 5 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 5 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.855 (place 38 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 54%
Most populous cities (2015): Bratislava (419,700 residents), Košice (239,500)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (4%), industry (35%), service (61%)
Export (2017): USD 80,800 million
Main export products: machinery, vehicles, metals
Main exporting countries: Germany, Czech Republic, Poland
Imports (2017): US $ 80 070 million
Main import products: machinery, vehicles, minerals
Main importing countries: Germany, Czech Republic, Austria
Railway network (2016): 3,600 km

Geography of Slovakia

Location and Size

Slovakia is a landlocked country located in Central Europe, bordered by Poland to the north, Ukraine to the east, Hungary to the south, Austria to the west, and the Czech Republic to the northwest. With a land area of approximately 49,035 square kilometers (18,933 square miles), Slovakia is one of the smaller countries in Europe. Despite its modest size, Slovakia has a diverse landscape and a central geographic location that has made it an important crossroads throughout history.

The capital of Slovakia is Bratislava, located on the banks of the Danube River, which forms part of the country’s southern border with Austria and Hungary. Bratislava serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of Slovakia. The rest of the country consists largely of mountainous terrain, with the Carpathian Mountains forming the northern and central parts of the country, while the lowlands of the Pannonian Basin cover the south.

Topography and Natural Features

Slovakia’s landscape is varied, offering a mix of high mountains, rolling hills, and flat plains. The Carpathian Mountains dominate the northern half of the country, with the High Tatras mountain range being the highest point at 2,655 meters (8,711 feet). The High Tatras, part of the larger Carpathian range, are home to numerous ski resorts and are a popular destination for hiking, mountaineering, and winter sports. The lower mountain ranges, such as the Lesser Carpathians and the Slovak Ore Mountains, are also important for agriculture and forestry.

In the south, Slovakia transitions into flat plains and lowlands, especially in the region of the Pannonian Basin, which extends into Hungary. This area is rich in agricultural land, which is used primarily for growing crops like wheat, corn, and sunflowers. The Danube River, one of Europe’s major waterways, flows through Slovakia, providing an important transportation route and contributing to the fertile environment in the southern regions. Slovakia also has a number of lakes, rivers, and caves, including the Slovak Karst, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its extensive cave systems.

Climate of Slovakia

Continental Climate

Slovakia experiences a continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm, while winters can be cold, especially in the mountainous regions. The country’s location in Central Europe, far from the moderating influence of the sea, results in significant seasonal temperature differences.

During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures in Slovakia can range from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures higher, especially in the lowland areas. The mountainous regions of Slovakia are generally cooler, even during the summer, and provide a retreat from the heat.

Winter temperatures in Slovakia can be quite cold, particularly in the mountains, where snow is common and can accumulate significantly. The average winter temperature in the plains can be around -5°C (23°F), but in the High Tatras, temperatures often drop below -10°C (14°F). Snowfall is frequent in the mountains, making Slovakia a popular destination for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice climbing.

Rainfall and Winds

Slovakia experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with higher precipitation occurring in the mountains and lower amounts in the southern plains. The wettest months are typically May through August, with frequent rain showers and thunderstorms, particularly in the highland regions. These rains contribute to the lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems found in Slovakia’s forests and mountain slopes.

In contrast, the winter months tend to be drier, with occasional snowfall, especially in the north. Winds in Slovakia are generally moderate, with the country being located between two major wind systems: the cold continental winds from the north and the warmer, moist air masses from the Mediterranean. This results in a variable climate, with occasional extreme weather events such as cold spells, heatwaves, or heavy rainfall.

People of Slovakia

Population and Demographics

Slovakia has a population of approximately 5.4 million people. The majority of the population is ethnically Slovak, making up around 80% of the population. Other significant ethnic groups include Hungarians (especially in the southern regions), Roma, Czechs, and Ukrainians. The demographic makeup of Slovakia is the result of a long history of migration and cultural exchange in Central Europe.

Slovakia has seen a decline in population growth in recent decades, attributed to low birth rates and higher rates of emigration, particularly to countries like the Czech Republic, the United Kingdom, and Germany. The country is experiencing an aging population, a common trend in many European countries, which presents challenges related to healthcare and social welfare systems.

Urbanization in Slovakia has been steadily increasing, with nearly 60% of the population living in urban areas. Bratislava, the capital, is by far the largest city and serves as the primary economic, political, and cultural center. Other major cities include Košice, Prešov, and Nitra, which have developed significant regional importance.

Language and Religion

The official language of Slovakia is Slovak, a West Slavic language that uses the Latin alphabet. Slovak is spoken by the majority of the population and is used in government, education, and media. While Slovak is the primary language of communication, many Slovaks, especially in larger cities, also speak English or German as a second language, reflecting the country’s growing ties to the European Union and global markets.

Religiously, Slovakia is a predominantly Christian country, with about 60% of the population identifying as Roman Catholic. The Catholic Church has a significant influence on Slovak society, with many traditions, holidays, and customs rooted in Catholicism. There are also smaller Protestant and Orthodox Christian communities, as well as a small number of secular or non-religious individuals. Slovakia’s history has been shaped by religious institutions, particularly during the era of Catholic-Hungarian influence.

Education and Health

Education in Slovakia is free and compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 16. The education system is well-regarded, with high literacy rates and strong emphasis on science, mathematics, and foreign languages. Slovak students generally perform well in international assessments, and the country has several universities, the most prominent being Comenius University in Bratislava, which offers a broad range of academic programs.

Slovakia’s healthcare system is public and universally accessible to its citizens. Healthcare services are largely funded by the government through a system of public health insurance, with hospitals and clinics spread across the country. While healthcare standards are generally high in urban areas, there are disparities in access and quality between rural and urban regions. The country’s health indicators are relatively favorable, with life expectancy in Slovakia being in line with the European Union average, though challenges such as rising rates of lifestyle-related diseases and an aging population continue to put pressure on the system.

Economy of Slovakia

Key Industries

Slovakia has a highly developed economy, characterized by a strong industrial sector, growing services sector, and exports that drive much of the country’s economic activity. Manufacturing is a key pillar of the Slovak economy, with the automotive industry being one of the largest sectors. Major companies like Volkswagen, Kia, and Peugeot have production plants in Slovakia, making the country one of the largest producers of cars per capita in the world. The country is also a hub for other industrial sectors, including electronics, machinery, and chemicals.

In addition to manufacturing, Slovakia’s economy is driven by a growing services sector, including finance, information technology, and tourism. The country has become an important outsourcing destination for companies in Western Europe and the United States, particularly in fields like IT and customer service. The country’s well-educated workforce, competitive labor costs, and favorable business environment have contributed to Slovakia’s attractiveness as a destination for foreign investment.

Slovakia has a well-developed agricultural sector, though its contribution to the overall economy is smaller compared to industry and services. The country produces a variety of agricultural products, including grains, potatoes, vegetables, and livestock, with an emphasis on organic farming. The agricultural industry is supported by the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which provides subsidies to farmers.

Economic Challenges

Despite Slovakia’s economic growth, the country faces several challenges. Income inequality remains an issue, with rural areas lagging behind urban centers in terms of economic development and access to services. Slovakia has one of the highest levels of emigration in the European Union, with many young people leaving to find better job opportunities in other EU countries, particularly in the UK, Germany, and Austria.

Another challenge is the country’s dependence on foreign investments and exports. While the automotive industry is a major contributor to Slovakia’s GDP, it also makes the economy vulnerable to global economic fluctuations and changes in demand. The country is working to diversify its economy, focusing on industries such as high technology, green energy, and research and development.

Slovakia also faces issues related to environmental sustainability, particularly in the areas of air pollution, waste management, and energy consumption. The country has made strides in renewable energy but still relies heavily on coal and other fossil fuels for energy production, which poses long-term challenges in meeting EU emissions targets.

Government of Slovakia

Political System

Slovakia is a parliamentary republic, with a political system based on democratic principles. The president of Slovakia is the head of state and is elected for a five-year term. While the president holds a largely ceremonial role, they have significant powers in areas such as appointing the prime minister and other key officials, and they represent the country in international affairs.

The government is headed by the prime minister, who is appointed by the president and must have the support of the majority in the National Council, Slovakia’s legislative body. The National Council consists of 150 members who are elected for four-year terms through proportional representation. The National Council passes laws, approves the budget, and oversees the actions of the executive branch. Slovakia has a multi-party system, and coalition governments are common due to the proportional representation system.

Slovakia is a member of several international organizations, including the European Union, NATO, and the United Nations. As a member of the EU, Slovakia has adopted many EU laws and policies, including those related to trade, environmental protection, and human rights.

Legal System

Slovakia’s legal system is based on civil law, influenced by the legal traditions of Germany and Austria. The judiciary is independent of the executive and legislative branches and is tasked with interpreting and applying the law. The Supreme Court of Slovakia is the highest court, with jurisdiction over constitutional matters and the ability to review the constitutionality of laws.

Slovakia’s legal system is robust, but challenges remain in areas such as corruption and the speed of legal proceedings. The country has undertaken significant reforms to address these issues, including the establishment of an anti-corruption agency and the introduction of more transparent legal procedures.

Culture of Slovakia

Arts and Music

Slovakia has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its history as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and its Slavic roots. The country has a long tradition in the arts, particularly in music and literature. Classical music has a prominent place in Slovak culture, with composers such as Eugen Suchoň and Mikuláš Schneider-Trnavský contributing to the country’s musical legacy. Folk music is also an important aspect of Slovak culture, with traditional songs and dances still being performed in rural communities.

Slovakia has a thriving theater scene, particularly in cities like Bratislava, where there are several national and local theaters. The country is also home to many museums, galleries, and cultural festivals that celebrate its history and artistic achievements. The Bratislava International Film Festival and the Košice International Animation Festival are just a few examples of the vibrant arts scene in the country.

Festivals and Traditions

Slovak culture is rich in traditions and festivals, many of which are tied to religious and seasonal events. One of the most widely celebrated festivals is Christmas, which is marked by traditional Slovak customs, including special foods, songs, and Christmas markets. Easter is another important religious holiday, celebrated with the tradition of “mapping” or decorating eggs, as well as other local customs.

The country also celebrates folk festivals, such as the Východná Folklore Festival and the Trenčín Folk Festival, which showcase Slovak music, dance, and crafts. These festivals highlight the country’s rural traditions and provide a platform for the preservation of Slovak folklore.

Cuisine

Slovak cuisine reflects the country’s central European roots, with influences from Hungarian, Austrian, and Czech cuisines. Traditional dishes often feature ingredients such as potatoes, cabbage, meats (especially pork and beef), and dairy products. One of the most iconic Slovak dishes is bryndzové halušky, a type of potato dumpling served with sheep’s cheese and topped with bacon. Other popular dishes include kapustnica (a sauerkraut soup) and zemiakové placky (potato pancakes).

Slovak cuisine is hearty and designed to provide sustenance for the cold winters. Bread and pastries, such as koláče (sweet rolls) and trdelník (a sweet dough pastry), are staples in the country. The drinking culture in Slovakia includes the consumption of slivovica, a traditional plum brandy, and a variety of local beers.

History of Slovakia

Early History and Kingdom of Hungary

Slovakia’s history dates back to the early Slavic settlements in the region during the 5th and 6th centuries. In the early medieval period, the territory that is now Slovakia was part of the Great Moravian Empire, which was one of the first Slavic states. Following the fall of Great Moravia in the 10th century, the area became part of the Kingdom of Hungary, which lasted for nearly a thousand years.

During the time of Hungarian rule, Slovakia was heavily influenced by Hungarian culture, and many Slovaks were subjected to political and social subjugation. Slovak national identity was largely shaped during this period as Slovaks began to resist Hungarian domination, particularly through the promotion of the Slovak language and culture.

Czechoslovakia and World War II

At the end of World War I and the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Slovakia became part of the newly formed state of Czechoslovakia. Over the next few decades, Slovakia’s relationship with Czechoslovakia was marked by political tension, as Slovaks often felt marginalized by the Czech majority. In 1939, during the prelude to World War II, Slovakia declared its independence under the protection of Nazi Germany and became a puppet state.

After the war, Slovakia was re-integrated into Czechoslovakia. The post-war period saw the establishment of a communist government in Czechoslovakia, and Slovakia, as part of the country, became a member of the Eastern Bloc under Soviet influence.

Independence and Modern Day

In 1993, after the peaceful dissolution of Czechoslovakia, Slovakia became an independent republic. The transition to independence was not without challenges, as Slovakia had to navigate economic restructuring, political reform, and the establishment of democratic institutions. The country joined NATO in 2004 and the European Union in 2004, marking a new era in its history as it became more integrated into the West.

Slovakia has continued to develop as a modern, democratic, and prosperous country, becoming one of the fastest-growing economies in the European Union. The country is known for its high-quality manufacturing industries, including automotive production and technology, and it continues to promote political stability and international cooperation.