Sacral monuments and pilgrimage sites Horné Otrokovce

In the small village of Ducové, approximately 4 km from the town of Piešťany, once stood a fortified hillfort of a Great Moravian nobleman dating back to the 9th century. Kostolec - Veľkomoravský dvorec is an important archaeological site where you can learn more about the history of our nation. At the same time, it is also listed among national cultural monuments.

Near ancient important routes, the location as such became sought after by people as early as prehistoric times. Traces of settlement can be observed to this day, thanks to several remaining traces. Currently, Kostolec - veľkomoravské hradisko is situated on a rocky promontory in Považský Inovec. Although no longer fully intact, the remnants of the court dating back to the 9th century and the preserved foundations of a rotunda-shaped church will enchant you upon visiting this place. The palisade fence, which has been reconstructed, will also catch your attention, thus offering an authentic period atmosphere.

The remains of the small church that you can notice when visiting this place were re-consecrated on the Feast of Saints Cyril and Methodius in 1990. Since then, Holy Masses have been held here annually on this holiday to honor the arrival of these Slavic apostles. Plan a trip to this history-shrouded place and spend wonderful time here. It might also be a good idea to book accommodation near Kostolec - Veľkomoravský dvorec.

Information panels right at the site will draw you into the history of Kostolec thanks to interesting and engaging texts. The ascent to this site is possible in several ways. If you set off directly from the village of Ducové, you can follow a marked cycling route or an educational trail. Count on it taking roughly 10 minutes of your time.

The village of Ducové is sought after not only by people who are passionate about history. In the summer season, you can plan interesting trips from your accommodation in Ducové. Swimming is great at the Horná Streda lake, where boating, swimming, or lounging is possible. Together with children, you can view many animals at ZOO farma New Zealand. In case you are a couple and just wish to relax, book an apartment in Ducové. You will find all budget-friendly accommodation options on our portal.

If you decide to visit the ancient city of Nitra, you will certainly find plenty of beautiful things and cultural monuments to visit and make your stay more enjoyable. Worth noting and visiting is Dražovský kostolík, which is a unique cultural and sacral monument of this region. You can find it in the village of Dražovce, which was a borough of Nitra until 1975. You can get here by car or by public transport. The village is a well-known archaeological site from the era of Slavic settlement. A settlement and a burial ground from the period of Great Moravia were located here. Archaeologists discovered over 400 graves with significant artifacts in this location.

You will see the church from afar. This simple structure proudly towers on the edge of a limestone cliff, which is a spur of the Tribeč mountain range. It is a landmark that cannot be overlooked. The church is the oldest sacral building of the Romanesque type in the territory of Slovakia. Its origin is dated back to the 12th century. It is officially named after Saint Michael the Archangel. Upon your arrival, you will be charmed not only by the structure itself, but also by the location where it stands and its unique atmosphere. The church has a rectangular floor plan. On the east side, there is an apse alcove in the shape of a semicircle. The roof is a simple gabled roof covered with tiles. On the west side towers a small turret with a pyramidal roof. The building is constructed of stone and brick. The nave of the church measures only 6.3 x 4.3 m. The entrance is from the side. The windows are small and set relatively high. It is assumed that another building, a hermitage, was attached to the church in the past.

The church is mostly closed. You can get inside only exceptionally if you request it in advance. The only exception occurs annually on September 29, when Michael celebrates his name day. At that time, Holy Mass is regularly held here. From the hill sought after by tourists, there is a wonderful view of the city of Nitra and surrounding villages. From here you will also see Nitriansky hrad. Did you know that the oldest part of the church contained mortar dating back to the 9th century? It is also written that the church was meant to fall victim to the construction of a railway line, for which stone was quarried from the hill on which it stands. Only protests by local residents saved it from demolition.

The church has caught the eye of many artists with its appearance. In addition to paintings, it appeared on postage stamps and coins. Not only documentary, but also feature films were shot here. Such famous Slovak music bands as Tublatanka also used the environment to shoot their music videos. Do you remember the 50 SKK banknote? Yes, this famous church is depicted on it as well. We believe that our story about this place has intrigued you so much that you will decide to find and explore it during your next visit to Nitra.

The nearby city of Nitra is popular not only with students, but also with visitors from all over Slovakia. During its tour, in addition to a spiritual experience, you can treat yourself to others as well. Feel free to lift your artistic spirit during a performance that you can choose from the repertoire of Staré divadlo Karola Spišáka v Nitre. Professional acting performances can also be enjoyed on the stage of Divadlo Andreja Bagara. You can also reach Svoradova jaskyňa cave along a hiking trail. On summer days when temperatures exceed 25 °C, you can cool off in the pool at Kúpalisko na Sihoti - Nitra.

To truly enjoy your time here to the fullest, we recommend booking accommodation near Dražovský kostolík. In our offer, you will find a variety of accommodation facilities. Property owners will be happy to accommodate you in their apartments in Dražovce. Or will rooms in private accommodation appeal to you more? The choice is entirely up to you.