Where to go on a trip Hronovce

The Romanesque rotunda with a circular floor plan and an internal apse stands on the site of a now-vanished Premonstratensian monastery complex in the village of Bíňa, in southern Slovakia. It is assumed that this sanctuary was built around 1200 and served as a baptistery, that is, a place for the baptism of adults. Its interior is decorated with magnificent frescoes from the 13th and 14th centuries. The unique architectural solution of the rotunda has no parallel in Slovakia. The inner walls are divided by twelve niches with semicircular endings, symbolizing the twelve messengers of God.

The cylindrical brick structure has an inner diameter of 720 cm, and its walls reach a thickness of up to one meter. The dome-shaped roof is topped with the apostolic double cross of Saint Stephen. The foundations of the rotunda are built from unusually carved quarry stones joined by lime mortar and clay containing brick fragments. Documents from 1683 mention that the sanctuary was severely damaged and fell into disrepair for more than 70 years. Its restoration began only in 1755, when it was modified into the Baroque style. Therefore, the dating of this unusual house of worship was debated for a long time. Its true Romanesque origin was discovered only by chance. Following the bombardment during World War II in 1945, the Baroque plaster fell off, revealing the original medieval masonry.

Shortly after the war, in 1954, the renovation of the original Romanesque elements began, along with a comprehensive heritage restoration. Romanesque windows were exposed, while the newer Baroque ones were bricked up. After removing the Baroque coating, Romanesque paintings of exceptionally high artistic and technical quality were revealed. These are preserved fragments of a fresco depicting a group of twelve apostles. The figures, approximately one meter tall, are rendered in delicate shades of pale ochre, gold ochre, grayish-green, light blue, and pink. The faces of God's heralds are noble, radiating deep spirituality. The restoration also uncovered part of a votive painting depicting an adoring knight, a crusader. Among the Romanesque architectural elements, the portal on the southeastern side, a circular window in the western part, and three slit windows facing east have been preserved in their original state.

The exterior plaster also underwent reconstruction, using the same smoothing technique applied during its original construction in the 12th century. To smooth the plaster, a metal tool heated in fire was used, which scorched the plaster with the hot metal. In 2006, archaeological research uncovered part of a Romanesque sculpture representing part of a lion's head, which presumably stood in front of the portal leading to the monastery church. Directly beneath the foundations, graves dating back to the Great Moravian era were discovered.

The complex includes the now non-existent Kaplnka sv. Kataríny and the twin-tower Gothic Kostol nanebovzatia Panny Márie. After exploring this unusual sacral structure, head straight to the pools of Termálne kúpalisko Vadaš and treat yourself to true summer refreshment. If you are already looking forward to your summer vacation, do not wait and book your accommodation near Rotunda dvanástich apoštolov today. The accommodation Bíňa page offers a variety of spacious cottages that can accommodate the whole family. And if you enjoyed the water park in Štúrovo, do not hesitate to search for private accommodations or apartments right in its immediate vicinity.

All wellness enthusiasts and fans of thermal water bathing will certainly enjoy the facilities of the Letné termálne kúpalisko Santovka Wellness outdoor thermal resort. This swimming pool complex is located approximately 6 km from the district town of Levice, in the quiet village of Santovka, surrounded by stunning flora and fauna.

Especially during the summer months, from May to September, you can come and relax in the waters of this complex. There are 5 pools available with geothermal water, which, thanks to its composition, has an excellent effect on rheumatic diseases and the cardiovascular system. For lovers of active swimming and various stroke styles, the 50 x 15 m swimming pool is a popular choice. Not only families with children will appreciate the family pool measuring 15 x 15 m. You can spend your time here relaxing passively or having fun with water props. For children under 10, a dedicated pool measuring 25 x 10 m is available.

An interesting feature of this complex is the travertine sitting pools designed in the style of Turkish "Pamukkale". Thanks to the round-the-clock thermal water circulation, bathing in them is always "clean". You can also enjoy the travertine massage waterfalls and massage jets, which stimulate blood circulation and massage your skin under the stream of thermal water.

If you prefer sunbathing on a blanket, just pack one in your backpack and spread it out on the grassy area of the complex. If you get hungry, you can head over to the summer terrace, which is part of the restaurant right on-site. You might be tempted by grilled specialties or dishes to your taste from the menu. You can also indulge in a rest at the wellness center thanks to the indoor relaxation pool or hot tub baths. They offer various crystalline, aromatic, and special salts added to the baths, ensuring an enhanced relaxing and restful experience. In the gym premises, you can fully stretch your muscles. In addition to yoga practice, Thai massages are also available here. In the case of high interest, relaxation days are also held here under the guidance of a professional instructor.

Is bathing not enough for you? After relaxing in the thermal water, you can also visit the shores of the Vodná nádrž Zbrojníky reservoir. Here you can pitch a tent in the summer and watch the stars shining in the night sky. Another unusual experience includes a tour of Skalné obydlia Brhlovce. It is an extended exhibition of the Tekovské múzeum v Leviciach museum, showcasing a unique example of a distinctive form of folk architecture. You can admire the power of nature if you decide to explore Dudinské travertíny. To end the day, perhaps just a visit to Jurský park with the children, and then it would be time to head home.

In case you are not from this region and feel like exploring it, we can recommend accommodation near the Termálne kúpalisko Santovka Wellness. In this picturesque village, you can rest your head at the properties of our friendly hosts, who will be happy to accommodate you for the night. It is entirely up to your decision whether you choose Apartmány Santovka for your stay or opt for the privacy of cottages and chalets. We will be happy to help you with that.