Memorials Slanské vrchy

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.

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.