Memorials in Slovakia

The dominant building in the town of Martin is the seat of the Slovak national cultural association and at the same time the second headquarters of Matica slovenská. It features a beautiful, well-maintained park with busts of historical figures who enriched the history of Slovaks through their cultural, artistic, or scientific activities. Come and refresh your knowledge of history and let yourself be drawn into the history of Slovakia by an engaging presentation. Before entering, you will be welcomed by the steel statue of "Matica slovenská", which is the work of the national artist Ján Kulich. In the historic building where Matica slovenská is headquartered, you can listen to a short lecture lasting approximately half an hour. However, museum exhibitions are not part of the headquarters.

Matica slovenská offers the opportunity to visit exhibitions and museum displays at its workplaces. The original headquarters, the so-called budova Matice slovenskej, built from the donations of Slovaks according to the design of Ján Nepomuk Bobula, is a national cultural monument. Its visit should not be missed by literature lovers. Inside, you will find the permanent exhibition of the Slovenské národné literárne múzeum. The exhibition in the Dom Jozefa Cígera Hronského v Martine is located in the writer's house, depicting his life and works. Documents, drawings, and literary works of the most significant representative of post-coup literature will draw you into the life of the talented artist, who applied his talent not only in Slovakia but also abroad. Get to know Jozef Cíger Hronský through a modern panel exhibition entitled „Jozef Cíger Hronský Život bez oddychu“, which will charm you with its design. The writer's house is also home to the Krajanské múzeum, which connects Slovaks living abroad with Slavic Maticas. In addition to the exhibition on the life and work of Hronský, it engages in publishing, cultural, and promotional activities.

The establishment of Matica slovenská dates back to the second half of the 19th century. In the past, it provided support to Slovak students and scientists in the form of scholarships and loans, and established new domestic and international cooperations and contacts. Behind its establishment and activities stand many prominent Slovak figures such as Michal Miloslav Hodža, Jozef Miloslav Hurban, Ján Francisci, Štefan Marko Daxner, Viliam Pauliny-Tóth, Adolf Dobriansky, and others. Matica slovenská covers collecting and publishing activities, creates conditions for versatile education, and supports cultural activities for a full social life. Every third year, Matica slovenská organizes the Matičný svetový festival slovenskej mládeže, where young people from all over the world gather.

Set out to explore Slovak history in the town of Martin. Take a look into the history of building Slovak culture. Rest assured that a visit to any of the exhibitions or an engaging presentation will charm not only history enthusiasts. If you are tempted to experience a piece of art, make the most of your time spent in Martin and do not miss the Turčianska galéria – Župný dom. Interesting places can make your holiday more pleasant even during a ski trip at the ski resort Martinské hole. Do you prefer warmer days? Take advantage of the summer season when the Kúpalisko Sunny Martin will cool you down after a city tour. Do not forget that the surrounding nature in the Turiec region offers magnificent views from the Fatranské vrchy. Visit Národný park Malá Fatra or Národný park Veľká Fatra and treat your body and mind with active relaxation. Choose from a wide offer and book your accommodation in the vicinity of Matica slovenská. A guest house, an apartment, or a picturesque wooden cottage will be your sanctuary for relaxation after an actively spent day in Martin.

On the Háj hill, which rises to an altitude of 748 m a.s.l. above the town of Liptovský Mikuláš, you will find Lesopark Háj-Nicovô. It is a popular cultural and recreational zone and a frequent visiting spot for locals, as its summit offers a beautiful panoramic view. You will see the Vysoké Tatry with the unmistakable Kriváň, the Západné Tatry, and the Chočské vrchy on the northwestern side. The western side reveals the Veľká Fatra, while the southern side reveals the ridge of the Nízke Tatry. The highlight of the view is an exceptional vista of Liptovský Mikuláš and the Liptovská Mara water reservoir.

The dominant feature of the summit is the military memorial and cemetery Háj-Nicovô. More than 1,350 fallen heroes rest here. Their graves are arranged along the sides of a monumental staircase. Right by the bottom steps are sculptures, one symbolizing peace and victory, the other depicting an oath to the battle flag. After reaching the top step, you arrive directly in front of the centerpiece of the memorial, a pylon with several reliefs and a five-pointed star at its top.

You can reach the top of Háj along the paved Cesta generála R. Kunu road, which is also known as Cesta hrdinov. Passanger cars and bicycles are permitted on it, but you will also find pedestrians and often mothers with strollers there. In winter, the road is not maintained. However, a forest route via the Príroda a krajina educational trail, which copies the Vojenská história trail, is very popular among locals. In addition to walking, exploring nature, and learning about history, there is much more to do at Háj. You can play sports or spend time with children at an original wooden playground, and you can also find the first Slovak eco-friendly clay target shooting range here.

The Príroda a krajina educational trail is 1.3 km long, has an elevation gain of 140 m, and is marked with a green hiking trail marker. The ascent to Háj via this trail represents a walk along a deep-sea floor. More than 45 million years ago, Liptov was submerged under the sea, as evidenced by various fossils. In the insect hotel, you can admire the fascinating world of insects; however, on the way to it, you will first pass through a mixed forest with a rare specimen, a black poplar that is over 100 years old. The end of the trail is a sweet finishing touch, as there are stairs of time located there. They show a cross-section of the geological bedrock of the Liptovská kotlina basin, going back to 460 million years ago.

The Vojenská história educational trail is 0.47 km long and is a flat walk along a red hiking trail marker. Educational boards inform about troops and weapons, as well as the subsequent restoration of the devastated territory, as bloody battles of World War II took place here. The memorial area, to which the educational trail leads, was made accessible in 1961 along with the memorial and cemetery. It is the final resting place of battle victims, and since 2018, it has also served as a Pomník novodobým vojnovým veteránom (Monument to Modern War Veterans). This stands as a tribute to soldiers who died while fulfilling duty assignments in foreign missions and operations.

You can also run up to the summit of Háj; there are even two routes named after well-known Slovak athletes and natives of Liptovský Mikuláš. The blue route of whitewater slalom canoeist Michal Martikán is 5.3 km long with an elevation gain of 175 m. The yellow route of alpine skier Petra Vlhová is 3.3 km long with an elevation gain of 140 m. Both routes are classified as moderately demanding. A regional cycling route also passes through the area.

Being in Liptov means being surrounded by beautiful nature and many opportunities for activities. Lesopark Háj-Nicovô offers you amazing views, an easy hike, and the chance to discover another chapter of our history. The accommodation page Liptovský Mikuláš will take care of your stay, while the trip tips page Liptov will provide options for how to spend your free time during your visit.

Do you know the famous statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro? It is renowned all over the world and was long the tallest statue of Jesus in the world. Did you know that we have its copy in Slovakia? Indeed, we do. In Orava, above the village of Klin in the Námestovo district, a statue of Jesus Christ rises to the heavens. It is the third copy of the famous Brazilian statue in Rio, and it is definitely worth visiting.

The statue of Jesus Christ stands on the Grapa hill. It is the work of a local folk sculptor, Peter Ganobjak, who began working on it in November 2008. It was funded by Mr. Jozef Sroka and stands on land belonging to the parents of priest Florián Volf. The iron structure for the statue was crafted by the artist in his workshop. Then, they poured concrete into it and hauled it up the hill. Here, using only an ax and a mattock, sculptor Ganobjak carved the statue of Jesus Christ.

This truly magnificent work of art has a height of 9.5 meters. The statue spreads its arms 7 meters wide, pointing across the entire length and breadth of Orava. Grapa hill provides an ideal location for the statue of Jesus Christ. Not only is it visible from afar, but in good weather, you can see in all directions from the top. During the climb, you will be presented with a view of Námestovo, the well-known Oravská priehrada reservoir, Suchá hora, the Roháče mountains, and you can see as far as the Polish town of Zakopane.

Together with its pedestal, the statue of Jesus Christ weighs up to 23 tons. It is painted white, attracting tourists from a distance. The surroundings of the statue are nicely landscaped. Fruit trees are planted here, and you will find a mini-amphitheater, a gazebo, and benches for rest or prayer. In spring, the statue is surrounded by flowers, and Christians travel to it from all over the world. A year after its installation, a chapel was also built beneath the statue of Christ. Later, a statue of Pope John Paul II kneeling in prayer before Christ was added.

You can reach the statue of Jesus Christ in Klin directly from the village. You pass by the soccer field and park in the parking lot below Grapa hill. From there, a Way of the Cross leads all the way to the top. Stop and admire the beauty of nature and this amazing monument created by human hands.

Orava is among the most beautiful regions of Slovakia, and you will find many monuments and interesting places here. On our portal, we have also prepared other tips for attractions around Námestovo for you. If you go here for a vacation, we offer you nice accommodation near the statue of Jesus Christ and accommodation in Orava. You will certainly find the right choice.

Surrounded by the waters of Oravská priehrada, Slanický ostrov, also known as Ostrov umenia. has been located here since 1953. Its area covers 3.5 hectares. When you see the island from a distance, it might strike you at first glance as appearing deserted. Although no one lives on it, visitors walk across it regularly. This is because the exhibitions of Oravská galéria Dolný Kubín are installed here, and summer events are also occasionally organized on the island.

Slanický ostrov umenia is a remnant and monument of the submerged village of Slanica. The Kostol Povýšenia sv. Kríža church was preserved from it, although it was not always a church. When it was built between 1766 and 1769, it represented a Baroque chapel; it was only in 1843 that it was rebuilt into a church with two towers and a classicist chapel was added to it. In front of it stands a monument to Anton Bernolák, a bronze statue dating from the mid-1930s.

Inside the church, there is an exhibition from Oravská galéria entitled "Slovak Traditional Folk Sculpture and Painting". Traditional folk visual art has always belonged among the typical elements and expressions of a country's national culture, and Orava is no exception. Orava statues belong to the cult of the Virgin Mary, originating from Polish Galicia. Their authors were mostly self-taught artists who, when carving, simply let themselves be guided by their own inspiration and skill. Thus, in the spirit of local woodcarving traditions, these small works of art were created, though unfortunately only a limited number of them have survived.

In the island's exterior, there is a torso of the original cemetery and a lapidarium of “Orava Stonemasonry Creation of the 18th and 19th Centuries”. An exhibition of Orava stonemasonry has been installed in it since 1973. To this day, individual reliefs and statues of saints have been preserved in their original locations, such as cemeteries, calvaries, churches, or chapels. Believers often decorated them with various vivid colors or different crowns and paper flowers on special occasions. In the former tomb, the exhibition “History of Submerged Villages and the Construction of Oravská Priehrada” is installed. The combination of the attractiveness of the installed exhibitions together with the beautiful natural scenery of the island makes this place one of the most visited and popular cultural sites in Orava.

You can reach the island by boat, which drops you off here during a sightseeing cruise on Oravská priehrada. It is truly a great experience that both children and adults will remember for a long time. We therefore recommend finding accommodation near Slanický ostrov umenia and allowing yourself enough time to get to know this area from a different perspective. Being buoyed by the larger and smaller waves of the reservoir is something you simply need to experience. Book your stay on the pages accommodation Námestovo or accommodation Orava and come discover the attractions in Orava firsthand.

Kláštorisko is the ruins of a 13th-century Carthusian Gothic monastery that you will find while wandering through the Spiš region, in the beautiful surroundings of Slovenský raj (Slovak Paradise). It is also known by the names Skala útočišťa or Strážny vrch. It is located at an altitude of 760 m a.s.l. in the cadastral territory of the village of Letanovce. Together with the areas of Čingov and Podlesok, Kláštorisko belongs to the most important centers in the northern part of Slovenský raj.

The monastery's founding charter dates back to December 1299. Archaeological finds confirm that a hillfort structure from the Lusatian culture period was located here. According to legend, the monastery is punishment for the death of the provost of the Crusaders in Chmeľov. He was supposedly killed by Master Kokoš from the prominent Brezovický family, who as punishment and redemption for such a bloody crime had to found six monasteries. However, he only managed to found two. According to some historians, however, something else stands behind its creation.

The Kláštorisko plateau had a very important strategic location. From here, there is a view of the entire Spišská kotlina basin and its surroundings. That is precisely why inhabitants chose it as their refuge as early as the Late Bronze Age (11th century BC), and subsequently in the Early Iron Age (600 BC), they even built a fortress of sorts on the site. During the Tatar invasions of the Kingdom of Hungary, misery, hunger, and suffering befell ordinary people. The people of Spiš tried to save their wives and children from the cruelty of the Tatars. Historians believe that it was the people who hid on the rock and survived the Tatar invasion who built a makeshift wooden church at this location. A monastery was later built behind the walls as an expression of gratitude for saving lives.

The first structure to be built was a chapel north of the church, later used as a chapter house. The space south of the presbytery served the monks as a sacristy. A large monastery corridor was built around the entire perimeter of the courtyard. Along its perimeter were the monks' dwellings separated by low walls. Connected to the large cloister in the southeastern part is a small monastery corridor that stands opposite the communal spaces. Such a division of monastery corridors is specific to the Carthusian Order, as it reflects their requirement for a life of solitude, silence, and strict asceticism. The golden era of the monastery's operation was at the turn of the 14th and 15th centuries.

At the end of the 15th century, however, the monastery's life was accompanied by devastation associated with a destructive fire. It was attacked by the Hussites, later by the bratríci (Brotherhoods), who found their refuge at Marcelov hrad. This resulted in the monastic community moving to Levoča, where they built a new monastery and stayed for a short time. Thanks to the return of the monks, the monastery in Letanovce underwent reconstruction in 1478. Not only were necessary repairs carried out, but also various renovations and stylistic architectural alterations took place. In 1517, a hospice was built in its southern part. The remainder of the monastery's existence was influenced by political changes, the mortgaging of estates to the town of Kežmarok, as well as plundering by the robber knight Matej Bašo. In 1543, by decree of the General Chapter, the monastery was abandoned and demolished.

You can reach the monastery on foot from Hrabušice - Podlesok through Prielom Hornádu or from Čingov via Tomášovský výhľad. The braver ones can also go through the settlement in Letanovce. The complex is accessible year-round, and in summer, professional guided tours are available for interested visitors. The entire area of Kláštorisko is a very popular tourist destination. There is even a symbolic cemetery with exhibited artworks by young artists from the Spiš region. The exposition commemorates personalities who contributed to the development of the national park, as well as the lost lives of those who perished in Slovenský raj.

So whether you are interested in the history of the monastery or attracted to hiking in Slovenský raj, you are in the right place. Book accommodation near Kláštorisko on the Letanovce accommodation page and come admire not only the beauty of this monument, but also the famous Letanovský mlyn mill or one of the waterfalls in Letanovce.

Have you ever been to Kežmarok? If not, accept our invitation and discover a piece of its rich history with us. We present to you Kežmarská radnica, which ranks among the most significant historical monuments of the town. Since the 15th century, it has been located right in the middle of Hlavné námestie. But did you know that the original town hall stood on one of the oldest streets in Kežmarok, at a place called Starý trh?

After the Hussite invasion in 1433, when the town partially burned down, the center moved to another part where a new square was created. Juraj of Spišská Sobota decided to build a new town hall in 1461. Following a major fire in the first half of the 16th century, it was considerably damaged and needed to be reconstructed. Master Kuntz of Kežmarok rebuilt it from the Gothic style into a Renaissance appearance between 1541 and 1555, while preserving its original character. Later, a tower was added to the town hall building. The town hall acquired its current appearance and a second floor only after a fire that was (allegedly) intentionally set by two town residents in 1922.

An interesting fact is that beneath the building lies an old cellar from which water springs used to gush in the past. Legend has it that an underground escape tunnel leads from the town hall starting here. The town hall building is part of the town monument reserve in Kežmarok. On December 4, 1981, it was entered into the List of Cultural Monuments of Slovakia. Currently, the town hall serves as the seat of the town office.

Get to know other attractions and historical monuments in Kežmarok as well. Visit Kežmarský hrad, where you will certainly be charmed by interesting castle exhibitions of weapons, a medieval pharmacy, or historical vehicles. Accommodation near Kežmarská radnica can be found on our accommodation Kežmarok page. Delight your children and take a trip to Aquafun Park Veľká Lomnica. Treat yourself to well-deserved rest and relaxation in the outdoor pools. Your kids will have a blast on the gigantic slide and other inflatable attractions. We wish you a pleasant and undisturbed holiday.

A hero who was almost forgotten. The railwaymen of Zvolen etched their names into the famous history of the Slovak National Uprising primarily through the express construction of three armored trains: Hurban, Štefánik, and Masaryk. Hurban was the second armored train in sequence to fight for our freedom. As it was severely damaged in battle, today in Zvolen you can view only its replica, which was produced in 1974 for a movie about the SNP.

The production of improvised armored trains was driven by the fact that the insurgent army faced an acute shortage of motorized artillery and tanks. The order for their construction was issued by the Command of the 1st Czechoslovak Army in Slovakia on September 4, 1944.

The train J. M. Hurban was manufactured at the beginning of October 1944, and work on it lasted only 11 days. Since it was the second in sequence, it was technically better constructed, even though in this case too, it was armored only with ordinary 7 mm boiler plate. However, its armament was stronger than that of its predecessor. Its weapons equipment consisted of a field howitzer 14/19 with a caliber of 100 mm in a gun wagon, 3 cannons with a caliber of 37 mm in tank wagons, and 10 heavy machine guns with a caliber of 7.92 mm.

Its command was entrusted to Capt. Martin Ďuriš-Rubanský and 1st Lt. Dominik Miartuš. The train was driven by a civilian locomotive driver, Pavol Maťaš. The crew consisted of 75–80 soldiers and civilians. Electrical lighting, a telephone line with field telephones, and a device for operating the steam whistle from every wagon were installed on the train.

The entire combat unit consisted of an armored locomotive, tank wagons, an ammunition and machine gun wagon, an accommodation and kitchen wagon, and a wagon with sandbags. It was deployed in battle on the lines Hronská Dúbrava – Žiar nad Hronom and Banská Bystrica – Brezno – Heľpa, where it operated from October 3 to October 25, 1944.

On October 4, 1944, it was deployed in battles near Banská Bystrica, which the Germans wanted to reach through Malý Šturec. The order was clear: stop the enemy's advance, push them out of their defensive position, destroy the position that the Germans had about 800 m northwest of the Čremošné station, and thus allow our own units to restore the original defensive position. The Germans were surprised by the unexpected attack of the insurgents, which was accompanied by effective fire from the train, and so they retreated.

The train was seriously damaged in combat, but within two days workers not only repaired it, but also improved it and reinforced the tank turrets with additional armor. After replenishing the crew, it moved to the Červená Skala area and later to the section Banská Bystrica – Brezno – Heľpa, where it covered the retreat of insurgent units. It engaged in battle for the last time on October 23 near Heľpa.

However, the Germans were approaching from all sides, so the commander received an order to move the train into a tunnel in Harmanec after rendering the weapons and machinery useless. Here they met with the third train, which suffered the same fate. The combat journey of the trains ended here, and their crews left to fight in the mountains alongside the partisans.

The Germans captured the train sets and towed them away. After the war, two locomotives were found in the territory of Austria and the former Yugoslavia. You can find the replica of the armored train J. M. Hurban in the Park Štefana Višňovského under Zvolenský zámok.

After viewing the combat train, stay in the area below the castle and take a tour of the aforementioned Zvolenský hrad. If you feel like discovering the beauties of Podpoľanie, book your accommodation near Pancierový vlak Hurban right now and start planning your trips. You will find a rich selection of accommodation on the page accommodation in Zvolen. During your stay, be sure to visit Športový areál Orlík and do not miss Arborétum Borová hora.

Welcome to the most terrifying house in Trenčín. A romantic alley paved with cobblestones that leads right underneath Trenčiansky hrad will bring you to Katov domu, where people were cruelly tortured in the Middle Ages. Terrifying things took place on the premises of this Renaissance burgher house, during which many innocent people lost their lives. However, justice also caught up with the executioner Stanislav Chrbinský himself, who was executed himself for stealing church collection boxes.

The executioner's house was built as a stone house around 1607, divided into living quarters, an economic part, and a kitchen. It is assumed that the executioner lived on the upper floor, there was a prison on the ground floor, and in the dark, damp cellar, there was a dungeon where the condemned awaited execution. Trenčín used the services of the city executioner until 1790.

Currently, there are three exhibitions located here. The first of them bears the name „Majster spravodlivosti - kat“ and will guide you through the objects of municipal justice and torture law. The exhibition consists of a terrifying executioner's sword, a pillory where heads were severed, as well as a rack, a wooden horse (dereš), and a breaking wheel. The worst execution was when the condemned was tied up, laid on the ground, and the executioner chopped him into four pieces with a sword. Another horrific death occurred when a prisoner was tied between four horses and torn apart this way. In addition to torture tools, you will also find halberds and uniforms of the city guards, the uniform of the city police captain, their rifles, and sabers.

The next exhibition, „Remeslo, cechy a cechové zariadenie“, is more pleasant and brings closer the activities of guilds in the territory of the Trenčiansky kraj region. Here you can admire craft creations as well as artistic and historical objects. The final part of the exhibition, „Mešťania, ako žili...“, showcases the housing and everyday life of the inhabitants of Trenčín from 1850 to the interwar period. It consists of valuables, various parts of clothing, a ladies' cosmetic case, and an unconventional medical tool. a bloodletting needle.

Trenčín ranks among the largest Slovak cities and is a popular destination not only for Slovak but also for foreign tourists. Plan trips around the surroundings and discover other great attractions in Trenčín. After this unconventional and, we believe, unforgettable experience, treat yourself to a bit of fun and head to the rope center Tarzania Trenčín. If it happens to be a hot summer day, a stay at the Mestské kúpalisko Trenčín will bring you great refreshment.

Stay in the Považie region longer and book accommodation near the Dom mestského kata right now. A rich offer of stylish apartments and cozy guesthouses can be found on our page accommodationTrenčín. During your stay, definitely do not miss the legend-enshrouded Trenčiansky hrad.

Mohyla na Bradle is the final resting place of the Slovak general Milan Rastislav Štefánik (1880 - 1919). It is located in Myjavská pahorkatina, at an altitude of 543 m above sea level. You will find the mound between Brezová pod Bradlom and Košariská, the birthplace of the author of famous quotes such as: "I will fight my way through, because I want to fight my way through," "Believe the truth, live the truth, and defend the truth," or “He who thinks that others will win his freedom for him is not worthy of it.”

M. R. Štefánik was an important scientist, soldier, politician (vice-chairman of the Czechoslovak National Council, minister of war), astronomer, photographer, and diplomat. He was a key figure in Slovakia, mediating contacts with French state officials and co-organizing the Czecho-Slovak Legions and the establishment of our modern statehood. Together with T. G. Masaryk and E. Beneš, they played an important role in the founding of Czecho-Slovakia.

Štefánik died tragically on May 4, 1919 near Ivanka pri Dunaji while returning to his homeland together with members of his Italian crew, who are buried alongside him on Bradlo. The mound is a masterpiece by architect Dušan Jurkovič and represents the highest standard of European monumental architectural creation. The cornerstone was laid on the fifth anniversary of Štefánik's death. The monument was solemnly unveiled on September 23, 1928. The structure has a rectangular shape. The lower terrace measures 93 x 62 m, while the upper terrace measures 45 x 32 m. Along the edges of the terrace stand four obelisks, each 12 m high. In the center of the upper terrace rises a sarcophagus with a tomb, under which Štefánik's grave is located at a depth of 8 m.

Its construction took 280 working days and costs reached an incredible 2,813,262 CZK. After the fall of the totalitarian regime, it underwent reconstruction that lasted almost 7 years, until 1996. In 1968, it was declared a national cultural monument, and in 2009, it was inscribed on the European Heritage list.

If you want to pay tribute to General Štefánik, read the text on the plaques on his tomb, or enjoy breathtaking views, the peak of Bradlo and the mound rising above it are the ideal place. You can reach the summit from the parking lot along a winding road with sharp turns. An ideal addition to this trip is a visit to Múzeum M. R. Štefánika, located in his birthplace in Košariská. Book your stay near Štefánik's Mohyla na Bradle, ideally on the page accommodation Brezová pod Bradlom or accommodation Košariská, and enjoy your trip.

Would you like to experience a realistic trip into the past? We recommend visiting the village of Veľké Lovce in the Nové Zámky district. The period homestead, Dom ľudového bývania Veľké Lovce, will reliably draw you into the life, housing, and work of our ancestors in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The small private museum is simultaneously proof of the skill and ingenuity of its owner, who renovated it with respect for cultural heritage and made it accessible to the public. Although the folk housing house regularly becomes the center of cultural events organized by the village, its owner and operator continues to be Mr. Galbavý. You can also arrange a tour of this charming homestead with him by phone.

The folk housing house presents a 57-meter-long farmhouse dating from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. However, it is assumed that the first walls of the house were built back in 1794. The original structure consists of unburnt sun-dried brick and clay. During the sensitive renovation, the owner consistently preserved both the period architecture and natural materials. This created a truly charming monument, a house with a unique atmosphere that currently serves as the seat of a small private museum. Part of the homestead is also a farmyard, pigsties, a chaff storage room, a stable, a barn, a cellar, an apiary, or a wattle sheep pen.

In the interior of the house, besides individual rooms and the kitchen with an open chimney, you can also view traditional furnishings, items of daily use, decorations, or working tools. You will find original kerosene lamps, old ceramics, beautiful folk embroideries, and a rare wooden chest from 1908. If you are lucky, you will catch one of the village's cultural events, for which the spaces of the clay structure become the venue. Carnival celebrations, traditional home pig slaughters, Easter markets, grape harvest festivals, or folklore celebrations regularly take place here. The property currently also includes a stage and a shelter for visitors.

You can combine time travel with horseback riding at the Trilobit ranch in the village of Čechy or with water relaxation at the sought-after thermal swimming pool Podhájska. In the winter season, you can enjoy perfect skiing at the Čechy Pallag resort. The offer of trip options and attractions here is truly diverse. Similarly varied is the offer of accommodation in the vicinity of Dom ľudového bývania Veľké Lovce. We recommend using the sought-after accommodation in Podhájska, from where diverse experiences will be just a stone's throw away.

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.

To some a eccentric, to others an icon of the capital city of Bratislava. That is how Ignáca Lamára can be called. Do not know who is being talked about? Despite a difficult fate, this eternally smiling man in a tailcoat, with a top hat and a cane, became the model for the statue that adorns the streets of Starého Mesta. The legendary statue in the center of Bratislavy respectfully and with a smile greets all passersby.

Schöne Náci, real name Ignác Lamár, greeted passersby in the streets of Bratislavy for more than 40 years. Although a difficult fate befell him in life, his mother left him, and his father, with whom he cared for his sick brother, died early, Schöne Náci never gave up his smile and made his way through life like a true gentleman. A native of Bratislavy, born back in the times of Rakúsko-Uhorska, he was initiated into the shoemaking trade by his father. After his father's death, he made his way through life mainly as a theater stagehand. He frequently visited performances and adopted mimicry and gestures from actors, which gradually became part of him.

His favorite pastime was daily walks through the town. With his appearance, he drew attention, and the unassuming Ignáca became the legend Schöne Náci. The eternal dandy maintained his taste despite advancing fashion trends. Some looked at him strangely, while others shouted at him. Ignác always responded with a kind and friendly smile. He was popular with many and became a part of Starého Mesta. He ended his life journey in the 1960s in the hospital in Lehniciach. His remains were later transported to Bratislavy, and he found his final resting place at Ondrejskom cintoríne next to another legend, the well-known actor and comedian Júliusa Satinského.

The memory of Ignáca is commemorated by a life-sized statue, which is the work of the academic sculptor Juraja Meliša. Walk through the streets of Bratislavy, experience the unique atmosphere, and come also to greet Schöne Náciho near Rybárskej bráne in Starom Meste. During a stroll through the historical part of the capital, you will encounter another icon. The Čumil statue, also known as Man at Work, is a sort of Bratislava curious onlooker peering out of a manhole. You do not have to worry about tripping over him. From afar, you will be alerted by a cluster of tourists who tend to stop at this spot and take a few photographs.

You will also feel a unique atmosphere when visiting the Galérie Michalský dvor. In the former Jesenákovom paláci, you will find exhibitions featuring works by domestic and foreign artists. An indispensable part of social and cultural life, it is a venue for various events. For a tour of famous Bratislava monuments such as the Primaciálny palác, Dóm sv. Martina, or Bratislavský hrad, you will need more than just one day. So choose from our offer and book accommodation near the Sochy Schöne Náci. Whether you decide on a cozy hotel or a modern apartment, trust that spending a few days in Bratislave is definitely worth it.

Are you a fan of the movie Behind Enemy Lines? In that case, you will certainly be pleased to know that one of the heroes of this successful war drama remained in Slovakia after filming. No, it wasn't Owen Wilson. American filmmakers left us with a monumental angel with a broken wing, which was part of both the opening and closing scenes. The movie hero, a 15 m tall Socha anjela v Háji, towers over the cemetery in the village of Háj, located in the Košice-okolie district. It represents a major attraction not only for movie lovers, but also for tourists with a passion for original attractions and curiosities.

The plot of the American action movie Behind Enemy Lines takes place in Bosnia. However, few people know that the scenes of this audience-favorite war drama were filmed in the picturesque surroundings of Slovenský kras. The creators therefore donated the impressive statue specifically to the village of Háj, lying in the valley of the national park that provided the backdrop for the famous movie scenes. The majestic angel stands on the grounds of the local cemetery next to the church. The surroundings are nicely maintained, perfect for a pleasant walk.

An interesting feature is that the impressively looking statue is not actually made of stone. It is merely an imitation consisting of polystyrene hardened on the surface with cement. The angel has one wing shot off, and bullet marks are visible on it. The fragile material easily succumb to the influence of weather conditions and requires regular maintenance. It is taken care of by the village, which has also installed an information board at the site.

Be sure to combine a trip to the statue with a famous past with a walk to the jewel of Slovenský kras, the beautiful Hájske vodopády waterfalls. In the vicinity of the village, do not miss a tour of the ruins of Turniansky hrad, a trip to the unique Rastlinný kostol church, or to Hrhovský vodopád. This region is literally woven with tourist attractions and natural beauty. Book accommodation near Socha anjela v Háji and come see it with your own eyes. Accommodation in Háj and the surrounding area offers a wide range of cottages and chalets, as well as popular guesthouses and apartments. On our portal, you are sure to find holiday lodging according to your preferences.

The Pamätník Oslobodenia a víťazstva is a monumental memorial to one of the largest battles of World War II in the territory of the former Czechoslovakia. The impressive sculpture group with commemorative exhibitions is situated directly on the site where tens of thousands of soldiers fell, in the Dargovský priesmyk pass, on the road from the village of Košický Klečenov to Dargov. It is located on a mountain pass at the foot of the Ploská peak, in the main ridge of the central part of the Slanské vrchy mountains, near the source of the Trnávka river. It reminds passersby not only of the dark weeks of national history, but also of the heroism of the soldiers who laid down their lives for the liberation of this territory.

The Dargovský priesmyk pass is a silent witness to 7 weeks of fighting between the Red Army and the Germans for the liberation of Slovakia. The retreat of German troops finally occurred on January 18, 1945, and the day after, the city of Košice itself was liberated. On the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the bloody battle, the Pamätník Oslobodenia a víťazstva was unveiled in the pass. In addition to the pompous sculpture group, it includes an exhibition of liberating tanks, an anti-aircraft gun, and a memorial hall of battle glory. The author of the sculpture is the artist, academic sculptor Vojtech Löffler from Košice.

An interesting part of the memorial site is an educational trail leading directly through the battlefield locations. Exhibitions of military equipment, reconstructed bunkers, and military positions will transport visitors back to the times of World War II. You can embark on this unique military expedition on foot, by bicycle, and even on cross-country skis. Several hiking trails, a red cycling route, and, in winter, a cross-country skiing trail lead through the area. The road leading through the pass is an important connection between the Zemplín region and Košice.

Are you planning a holiday trip around eastern Slovakia? Be sure not to miss the opportunity to stop at a memorial site honoring the heroism and courage of the liberators of Slovak territory. You can combine a historical excursion with a trip to the nearby Herliansky gejzír, the ruins of Hrad Bačkov, and you will certainly also visit the remains of Slanecký hrad and enjoy the beautiful views from Rozhľadňa Čerešenka.

Interweave your holiday days with experiences you will not easily forget. Book accommodation near the Pamätník Oslobodenia a víťazstva right now and start creating your trip itinerary. There are plenty of options. Choose from the accommodation options in Košický Klečenov or search for accommodation in Košice according to your preferences. We wish you a wonderful stay.

Dukliansky priesmyk is an almost entirely ordinary mountain pass at an altitude of 502 m a.s.l., which, however, became completely extraordinary thanks to the Karpatsko-duklianska operácia operation. It is located between the Kýčera and Brdo peaks, in the northern part of the Laborecká vrchovina highlands, on the Slovak-Polish border. The pass was named after the nearby Polish town of Dukla.

The history of the pass, however, is not ordinary at all; quite the opposite. The area of this Vojenské prírodné múzeum museum is often called the "Údolie smrti" (Valley of Death) and recalls one of the bloodiest chapters in our history. The battles that took place here during World War II claimed the lives of tens of thousands of Soviet and Czechoslovak soldiers. Upon entering this tragedy-marked valley, you pass two tanks entangled with each other, symbolizing the superiority of the Red Army over fascist evil.

The dominant feature of the pass is the 28 m high Pamätník československého armádneho zboru monument, built in 1949 based on the design of architect Jozef Grus. The monument includes bronze plaques with the names of 1,265 fallen soldiers belonging to the 1st Czechoslovak Army Corps. The monument, together with the military cemetery, forms an extensive military museum. In its area, visitors can view several dozen pieces of heavy military equipment, including aircraft, restored artillery firing positions, bunkers in the surrounding forests, and other military monuments. In the summer months, a 52 m high lookout tower is also accessible to visitors, built right on the spot where the observation post of Ludvík Svoboda once stood.

Dukliansky priesmyk is also known among tourists because the Cesta hrdinov SNP trail begins at these places. It is the most important and at the same time the longest (more than 700 km) hiking trail across Slovakia, stretching from Dukliansky priesmyk to Bradlo at Štefánikova mohyla. Walking it takes between 26 and 28 days.

You can reach Dukliansky priesmyk from the town of Svidník, via an asphalt road through Ladomirová, Hunkovce, Krajná Poľana, Nižný Komárnik, and Vyšný Komárnik. The pass is, among other things, an important junction of hiking trails. The red-marked route from Porubské sedlo to the east along the state border meets here with the red marker along the Cesta hrdinov SNP to the village of Medvedie, as well as two other hiking trails connecting from Poland.

If we have enticed you and you are planning to visit Dukla and the surrounding hiking trails, we recommend spending several days here. Find accommodation near Dukliansky priesmyk, so you can head out to explore the surroundings and take longer hikes right in the morning. Inspiration for a quality stay can also be found on the pages accommodation Kapišová, ubytovanie Ladomirová, or accommodation Hunkovce. The beautiful surroundings invite you to put on your hiking boots and set off on wanderings or explore the interesting history of this beautiful region.

In the Liptov village of Dúbrava, nestled in the picturesque nature of Nízke Tatry, the Guardian of the Forest (Strážca lesa) stands guard over the entrance to the forests and mines in Dúbravská dolina. It is a wooden statue soaring to a height of 5 m. To movie fans of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, it resembles the walking tree character "Ent", while to fans of Guardians of the Galaxy, it recalls the character "Groot". It was created by a pair of English artists.

Rooted to the ground, the statue is made almost entirely of wood, only subtly supported by a metal structure. It symbolizes Perun, the Slavic god of thunder and lightning. In his hand, he holds a burning torch, and his feet are covered with stones. The path leading to him is well-trodden, so you certainly will not get lost. It is quite possible that during your walk you will meet families with strollers or seniors. The terrain is easy and the route is relatively short.

In the past, mining activity flourished in Dúbravská dolina, leaving many residents with health consequences, but above all, it was responsible for one of the largest ecological disasters in Slovakia in 2019. The wooden guardian stands here as a sort of barrier between nature and man. He is a protector of both the forest and nature. He defends them and stands here as a warning to anyone who would consciously want to destroy them.

Not far from the wooden guardian are the famous Dúbravské bane, which were strategic for Czechoslovakia in their time. They were the highest-altitude antimony mines in Central Europe. Mining in them completely ceased in 1992. An old mining train stands at their entrance. However, its condition is just as dilapidated as the surrounding area of the mines. Nevertheless, a beautiful spruce forest leads to them.

Similarly beautiful forests can be found all around the area. Liptov is a very popular tourist destination, and every visitor will find something to love here. If you too want a photo with the wooden man of Dúbrava, plan a nice extended weekend in Liptov. For that, you need to find quality accommodation near the Wooden Man. You will find plenty of options, for example, on the page accommodation Liptovský Mikuláš. To truly enjoy your trip to the fullest, get inspired by our tips for trips in Liptov.