Obri v raji
Where the past of Spiš meets art
Are you looking for a place where the story of the land meets human creativity and legends of ancient giants? Would you like to be surrounded by the raw beauty of a former mining quarry, where the wealth of the earth was once extracted, but today you will find peace surrounded by art?
In the village of Hnilčík in the Spiš region, you will come across the Obri v raji area, which was created by the reclamation of an industrial space. Today, instead of mining machinery, you will discover an open-air gallery where geological rock layers are complemented by installations inspired by the local mining past. The project connects history with a new vision of land use and invites you to discover the nooks and crannies of this area at your own pace.
What will you find here?
In the area, you will see a collection of sculptures and objects made from natural materials that recall the mining tradition and the ancient legend of giants. You can walk along marked paths leading through the rugged terrain of the quarry, while a playground awaits children. The space is adapted for cyclists, and during the winter months, it serves as a base for winter activities.
Who is this place suitable for?
The place is suitable for families with children, tourists, cyclists, and dog owners who seek an unconventional connection between nature and industrial history. Due to the rugged surface of the quarry, we recommend suitable footwear. Parking is possible near the designated areas.
What can you visit in the surroundings?
In the wider surroundings, you will discover the town of Spišská Nová Ves, which serves as an entrance gate to the Národný park Slovenský raj. History lovers may head to Spišský hrad. The surroundings of the village of Hnilčík offer diverse possibilities for cyclists thanks to a network of marked trails in the Volovské vrchy mountains, which are suitable for family trips as well as mountain bikes.
If you plan to stay in the region for longer, you have several accommodation options. In the village of Hnilčík and its surroundings, you will find an offer of private cottages and guesthouses that offer authentic peace in the mountains. For lovers of urban infrastructure, accommodation in nearby Spišská Nová Ves is a great choice, where you will find hotels as well as apartments suitable as a base for your trips.
