Hvezdáreň v Banskej Bystrici
Head out to Urpín hill, where a watchtower, known as a vartovka, was built several centuries ago. The hill, named Vartovka after it, is also home to the observatory, which is a favorite among the residents of Banská Bystrica. If you want to broaden your horizons and learn a bit more about astronomy and its related technical sciences, direct your steps straight to the Hvezdáreň v Banskej Bystrici.
In 1961, the Ľudová hvezdáreň was solemnly opened on Vartovka, and 10 years later it became the Krajská hvezdáreň. As its scope gradually expanded, the observatory's premises grew as well. Today, it consists of an upper dome with an observatory housing the main high-end Celestron 1400 XLT telescope on a CGE mount. In the lower dome, you will find a modern telescope. Here you can observe the Sun in all its glory even during an eclipse, the Moon, or occultations of celestial bodies.
Did you know that already in the days of Matej Bel, people had an indescribable interest in exploring everything happening in the sky? The first observations backed by detailed records were thus carried out around 1855 during the time of Karol Zenger. It wasn't until after World War II that a club dedicated to astronomy and meteor observation was established at the local grammar school. Astronomy as such was therefore doing quite well. This fact motivated students and professors of the Vyššej pedagogickej školy to establish the Ľudová hvezdáreň. Plans varied, but in the end, they settled on the idea of converting the old built watchtower into the observatory that still stands there today.
If you come as an individual or a small group, you can choose from a variety of programs, sky observations, or film screenings. Outside, there is a fire pit and a relaxation terrace. A school trip will thus meet the expectations of every student. You can reach the observatory via a marked hiking trail, which begins on Žltý piesok street. Or will you choose the Náučný chodník Serpentíny Urpín and learn even more interesting information? Rest assured that if you plan to stay here longer, it is worth booking accommodation near the Hvezdáreň Banská Bystrica.
Come to Banská Bystrica to explore other attractions of the city and enjoy everything it has to offer. You will appreciate the many historical monuments in the square or simply relax in the outlying parts of the city if you come with your significant other. At that time, we recommend thinking about pleasant accommodation in Banská Bystrica. You can choose either one of the quality guesthouses or a somewhat more luxurious hotel room. You might even manage to catch a glimpse directly of the Hvezdáreň na Vartovke observatory or the peak of the Katedrála sv. Františka Xaverského cathedral from your room window.
