It is difficult to discern a unifying cultural theme in Trenčín, a midsized Slovakian town with an imposing castle, a charming Habsburg square and a surplus of specialty coffee shops. This is a common feeling in many central and Eastern European cities, which have played host to various religions, ethnicities and foreign occupiers over the centuries. It is especially true of Slovakia, a country that has only existed since 1993 and lacks the historical pedigree of its Hungarian, Polish and Czech neighbours.

Trenčín (pronounced Tren-cheen) is experiencing a sudden influx of visitors because it was named one of two European Capitals of Culture this year. The other, Oulu, is somewhere in Finland.

There is no mystery to the Finns. They are taciturn, they love saunas and beer and they have a dry sense of humor. Finland is always at the top of global happiness rankings despite its citizens’ aversion to small talk, smiling, or any behavior that might be considered friendly. One suspects the country’s reputation for happiness rests on efficiency, cleanliness and a collective unwillingness to express dissatisfaction on opinion surveys.  

Generous EU subsidies have helped restore the castle, but they haven’t resolved Trenčín’s identity crisis

Generous EU subsidies have helped restore the castle, but they haven’t resolved Trenčín’s identity crisis

While Finnish identity is well established, Slovakia is a different story. It is often confused with nearby Slovenia, another young country that at least has the Alps, the Adriatic and easy access to Italy. Slovakia is also overshadowed by........

© The Spectator