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UNESCO Monuments

UNESCO EN.indd 1 30.5.2013 17:24:25 www.slovakia.travel

Spot Slovakia

Cultural heritage UNESCO Natural heritage UNESCO

Regional City International Airport Main Road Highway

Cultural and natural heritage sites inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List

VLKOLÍNEC Folk architecture heritage reservation LEŠTINY Evangelical articled Church TVRDOŠÍN Roman Catholic All Saints church HRONSEK Evangelical articled church BANSKÁ ŠTIAVNICA Historical town and technical monuments in the vicinity KEŽMAROK Evangelical articled church of the Holy Trinity LEVOČA Historical town centre Spiš Castle and associated monuments: Spišské Podhradie – village centre, SPIŠSKÝ HRAD Spišská Kapitula with St. Martin’s Cathedral, Žehra – Church of the Holy Spirit HERVARTOV Roman Catholic Church of St. Francis of Assisi BARDEJOV Historic town core BODRUŽAL Greek Catholic Church of St. Nicholas LADOMIROVÁ Greek Catholic Church of St. Michael Archangel RUSKÁ BYSTRÁ Greek Catholic Church of the relics of St. Nicholas VIHORLATSKÉ VRCHY Carpathian primeval beech forests (Vihorlatský prales) BUKOVSKÉ VRCHY Carpathian primeval beech forest (Stužica, Rožok and Havešová) DOBŠINSKÁ ĽADOVÁ JASKYŇA ice cave OCHTINSKÁ ARAGONITOVÁ JASKYŇA aragonite cave GOMBASECKÁ JASKYŇA karst cave JASKYŇA DOMICA karst cave KRÁSNOHORSKÁ JASKYŇA karst cave JASOVSKÁ JASKYŇA karst cave

UNESCO EN.indd 2 30.5.2013 17:24:31 Slovakia, rich in world heritage

Captivating works of art created by na- ready have a privileged and permanent tee you an unforgettable and fascinating ture itself, accompanied by fascinating place among the elite world cultural experience. architectural treasures, document the and natural heritage sites inscribed on rich history and allure of the picturesque UNESCO list. Whether you trace back to Th e brochure you are holding is your per- country that is Slovakia. Place where the distant past of some beautiful his- sonal guide to these remarkable sites, exceptionally rich natural and cultural toric towns such as Bardejov, Levoča or which will leave you with something spe- monuments are to be discovered in every Banská Štiavnica, discover the unique cial to remember from your visit. corner of every region. natural works of art concealed in the caves of Slovenský kras (Slovak Karst), Th e mystical atmosphere of virgin prime- being carried away by the enchanting Discover a country that enchants every- val forest, a unique underground king- tones of the traditional Fujara woodwind one with its beauty, discover its unique- dom, works shrouded in legend, telling instrument, visit the quaint village of ness, visit the national portal, where of noble stories from the past, ancient Vlkolínec, investigate the unique wooden you can fi nd out everything about towns with impressive monuments, fi ne churches of the Carpathian arc, look out Slovakia that you couldn’t even have artefacts of folk art ... all under the cloak over the panorama surrounding the ro- imagined, but always wanted to see of the uniqueness that Slovakia can off er. mantic ruins of Spišský hrad (Spiš Cas- tle) or stroll through the primeval virgin www.slovakia.travel Eight exceptional Slovak treasures al- beech forests, all of these rarities guaran-

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Banská Štiavnica The silver town

Th e historic town of Banská Štiavnica can Štiavnica was a kind of El Dorado that at- gunpowder to blast rock, and it was here be found right in the centre of the volcano tracted gold and silver prospectors from that Queen Maria Th eresa established the among the peaks of Štiavnické vrchy, and Europe, the Turks and also marauding fi rst technical university in the world. Th is it is a magical and mystical place where knights. For centuries the town was a trea- also led to creation of the unique system of humankind and nature have harmoni- sury of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and sixty interconnected manmade lakes called ously merged over the centuries. It gives one of the best known towns in Europe. ‘tajchy’, where the power of water drawn a special allure to Štiavnica and thanks Th e riches extracted from the ground here out from the fl ooded mines served also to its intimate, almost family-like atmos- paid for grandiose palaces in Vienna and to drive the equipment for processing the phere, the town attracts visitors looking Budapest, for the fl amboyant lifestyle of ore. Th e rich residents of Štiavnica would to get away from the hustle and bustle of the emperor’s court, boosted science, edu- invite leading architects to the town to the city. It is thanks to the unique charm cation and culture, and fi nanced wars. build them mini palaces dug into the steep of this scenic countryside that the town slopes. Th e hills of Štiavnické vrchy are and surrounding technical monuments As the third largest town in the former full of holes just like the Swiss cheese, and were included in the UNESCO World Heri- Kingdom of Hungary, Štiavnica could also actually every house in the town centre tage List in 1993. boast the highest level of education. Th e has its own entrance to the underground. Referred to as the Silver Town in the past, mines here were the fi rst in the world to use A truly mystical and powerful place.

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Manor House of St. Anton – erst- while residence of the Bulgarian tsar, housing a collection of furniture from all over the world, as well as a hunting exposition. Sklené Teplice Spa – bath in ther- mal water in a natural cave. Kremnica – ancient mining town that is also home to the oldest per- You can go down the mines directly from tryside, criss-crossed with marked hiking petually operating mint in the world. the town or at the nearby mine entrance, paths and bike trails off ering stunning then search for minerals or listen to some views, is just as enchanting as the town old “mining” stories from the good old itself. Th e unique system of mining lakes Information Centre: days. A clearly dominant structural fea- called ‘tajchy’ now serves for recreational Informačné centrum mesta ture of the town is the Štiavnická Kalvária, bathing and rowing, or skating in winter, Banská Štiavnica which is of one of the most beautiful ba- while the gutters that were formerly used roque buildings of its kind in Europe, lying to channel rainwater down to the ponds Námestie sv. Trojice 6 on Ostrý vrch, at the very epicentre of the are now used as hiking and biking trails. 969 01 Banská Štiavnica volcano. You should defi nitely take a walk in the Tel.: +421 45 694 96 53 surrounding countryside, which conceals +421 45 692 05 35 Cultural life in Banská Štiavnica is also of countless romantic beauty spots. With [email protected] an extremely high standard, with unique every step you will come across the traces www.banskastiavnica.sk small fi lm and music festivals, concerts of the mining past here, which now has www.banskastiavnica.org and all kinds of interesting events for harmoniously blended in with the coun- N 48°27‘34.79“ E 18°53‘34.04“ children. Th e scenic surrounding countryside.

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Vlkolínec Pulsing with tradition

Vlkolínec is a gorgeous village at the metres from the town of Ružomberok. their homes, many of which have been heart of the stunning countryside of Legends say that the name Vlkolínec is preserved in their original state to the the Liptov region, where visitors can taken from the presence of wolves in present day. Th is small village appears sample a unique atmosphere until their this area, as the Slovak word ‘vlk’ means to have resisted the passage of time and heart’s content, full of strong traditions wolf. Other sources cite the village being change, as can be seen from more than and unrivalled history. Th e village is the named after the ditches that were disco- 40 preserved idyllic wooden homes here best preserved example of the heritage vered here, called ‘vlčia jama‘. Th ese were – charming log houses on stone founds reservation of folk architecture in Slova- dugout camoufl aged holes in the ground with clay covered walls and shingle roofs. kia. Th anks to its unique original wooden with stakes at the bottom, being used in buildings, it was included in the UNESCO the past mostly to catch wild game or as Vlkolínec has some pretty distinctive World Heritage List in 1993. a form of defence against unwanted visi- monuments like the two-storey wooden tors. Th e residents of this exceptionally belfry from 1770 on rock foundations, Th is distinctive foothills village, shielded scenic village would live off the land, with the rare wooden log well from 1860 or by the rocky cliff s of Sidorovo peak, can agriculture, sheep farming and woodcut- the Baroque classicism Roman Catholic be found below the ridges of the Veľká ting. Th ey would apply their woodcut- Church of the Visitation of the Virgin Fatra National Park, roughly three kilo- ting skills also in the construction of Mary. Th e enchanting atmosphere is com-

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Havránok open-air archaeology museum with exposition of a Celtic settlement on the banks of Liptovská Mara – the largest water dam reser- voir in Slovakia, and a prime location for all kinds of water sports. Malinô Brdo – tourist resort with various attractions all year round (ski- ing, bike park, rope park, and so on). Th ermal swimming baths in Bešeňová and the aqua park in Liptovský Mikuláš – fun and relaxation in warm water all year round. plemented by the small brook running cultural and social events are held here, over wooden gutters through the heart of giving visitors a closer insight into the the village. Here you can fi nd also a typical traditional way of life, human creativity, Information Centre: farmer’s log house, which is a part of the folklore and customs of the local people. Informačné centrum Ružomberok exposition of the Liptov Museum, where visitors can fi nd out about the traditional Despite its appearance, the quaint vil- A. Bernoláka 1 way of life and dwelling of a farming fam- lage of Vlkolínec is no museum, because 034 01 Ružomberok ily in the territory of Dolný Liptov. thanks to the persevering resistance to Tel.: +421 44 432 10 96 modern times, it is a lively and distinc- [email protected] At present, around twenty people live tive village with a charming atmosphere, www.ruzomberok.eu in this unique village, respecting and re- off ering visitors an interesting experi- www.vlkolinec.sk viving the traditions of their ancestors. ence with a taste of authentic history N 49°02‘15.97“ E 19°16‘34.97“ Th roughout the year various interesting and unique traditions.

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Levoča, Spišský hrad and nearby monuments Jewels of the Spiš region

At the very heart of the stunning Spiš a massive limestone hill. History lo- the Spiš region was boosted by the in- region, which is one of the most visited vers and budding walkers can combine clusion of the historical centre of the tourist areas in East Slovakia, we come a walk at the castle with a visit to any of region’s most important town Levoče across a territory of world signifi cance. the many interesting nearby attractions, to the UNESCO List, together with the You can enjoy an astonishing view of which were together with the caste in- work of Late Gothic woodcarver Master the surrounding countryside from the cluded in the UNESCO World Heritage Pavol in 2009. Th ere really is a lot to see dominant feature of this scenic region List in 1993. Th e uniqueness of this in this region, which boasts the wealth – Spišský hrad (Spiš Castle), sitting aloft complex of exceptional monuments in of cultural heritage.

UNESCO EN.indd 8 30.5.2013 17:25:06 Levoča collection of sacral art, is adorned with pilgrimage gathering in Slovakia. Tens of a wooden Gothic altar from the hand of thousands of believers make their way Th e medieval royal town of Levoča, lying Master Pavol from Levoča, which at the up the steep inclines of the hill Mariáns- in the east of the Spiš region below the height of 18.62 m is the highest altar of ka hora, which looms above the town, to hills of Levočské vrchy, is one of the most its kind in the world. share divine worship in the neo-Gothic precious cultural-historical treasures Church of the Visitation of the Virgin in Slovakia thanks to its rich past. Th e Th e museum situated in the former Levoča Mary. many rare architectonic monuments that Town Hall building, classed as one of the embody the town’s celebrated history are leading examples of secular Renaissance Information Centre: protected by the castle fortifi cations, pre- architecture in Slovakia, is also very popu- Informačná kancelária mesta served through time to the present day. lar with visitors. Spiš Museum provides an Levoča impressive insight into the town’s history, A stroll through the large rectangular but it also boasts several other interest- Námestie Majstra Pavla 58 square, which in addition to the stately ing expositions, the most visited of which 054 01 Levoča town houses is also home to one of the include Spiš Castle and the exposition of Tel.: +421 53 16 188, 53 451 37 63 most important sacral buildings in Slo- Master Pavol from Levoča. [email protected] vakia – the Church of St. Jacob, is certain www.levoca.sk to produce a truly aesthetic experience. Every year at the beginning of July, N 49°01‘31.60“ E 20°35‘19.33“ Th e church interior, resembling a unique Levoča is the destination for the largest

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Spiš Castle and surrounding monuments

Without doubt, the dominant histori- Th is national cultural monument stan- Th anks to its rich history, excellent po- cal features of the Spiš region comprise ding on top of a travertine hill at 634 m sition and sheer size, Spiš Castle has the complex of Spiš Castle, Spišská above sea level was built in the 12th not only become the dominant feature Kapitula, Spišské Podhradie and the century. Since it was constructed, the of the whole Spiš region and a much Church of the Holy Spirit in Žehra. Th e natural strategic position on Spiš Castle sought tourist attraction, but also the preserved condition and uniqueness of hill predestined the castle to play a pre- object of interest of many fi lmmakers, this rare grouping of monuments com- dominantly defensive role. Later on, photographers and painters. plemented by the surrounding natural this important border fortifi cation be- travertine band of the Dreveník nature came the centre of royal power in the In the reconstructed premises of the reservation, creates a special place that Spiš region, welcoming a whole array of castle complex we can fi nd exposi- promises visitors a memorable experi- distinguished dignitaries. Th e castle en- tions of the Spiš Museum, where visi- ence. joyed its greatest boom in the 15th cen- tors can learn interesting facts and tury, when it took on the appearance of see evidence of the castle’s rich his- a representative residence of the nobili- tory, medieval weapons, take a look Spišský hrad (Spiš Castle) ty. Th anks to the massive fortress walls, inside a medieval kitchen, castle bed- high cliff s and various other defensive room or the dreaded torture chamber. Covering an area of over four hectares elements placed around its periphery, Each year in the summer, Spiš Cas- and regarded by many as the national this gallant and uncompromising guard tle is home to an array of impressive symbol of Slovakia, Spiš Castle repre- of the Spiš region was never conquered and interesting cultural events in the sents one of the largest castle ruin com- in battle. It took a raging fi re in 1780 to original period style atmosphere. Th e plexes in Central Europe. reduce this ostentatious castle to ruins. displays of historic fi ghting arts and

UNESCO EN.indd 10 30.5.2013 17:25:12 falconry always prove highly popular To the present day visitors can still with tourists. admire the Gothic and Renaissance Tips for trips burgher houses with typical archways A bird’s eye view of this majestic for- and huge gates, which line the streets Sivá Brada – Dreveník learning trail tifi cation truly is a unique experience. and squares of Spišské Podhradie, as – following the footsteps of history Below Spiš Castle visitors can also ad- well as many impressive sacral build- and natural phenomena of the Spiš mire one of the largest creative works of ings. Th e Church of the Nativity of the region. sculpture in the world. Th e exceptional Virgin Mary is of interest with its rare Slovenský raj National Park – hik- geoglyph of an Australian sculpture Gothic winged altar of St. Barbora. ing options in the surrounding stun- represents a stylised stone image of Th e town also houses a Renaissance ning countryside with many wooden a horse from a Celtic coin found during Town Hall, a Church of the merciful and iron ladders, ravines, waterfalls, archaeological digs at Spiš Castle. brothers converted in Baroque style, or you can take a visit to the fasci- or the Baroque column Mariánsky nating Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa – stĺp. Ice Cave. Spišské Podhradie Betliar Mansion – fairytale two- Th e pilgrimage chapel that stands at storey representative hunting resi- Below the majestic Spiš Castle, not far the top of the low travertine hill near dence, set in the landscape of a beau- from Spišská Kapitula, at 430 m above Spišské Podhradie is a natural reser- tiful English park with romantic sea level, we can fi nd the small provincial vation that off ers a captivating view buildings, artifi cial cave and water- town of Spišské Podhradie, known in the of the Kapitula cathedral and Spiš fall. past as a hot spot of trade and crafts. Castle.

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Spišská Kapitula

West of Spišské Podhradie we can fi nd A rare Gothic treasure of Spišská Kapi- an interesting municipal heritage reser- tula is St. Martin’s Cathedral. Th e origi- vation in the shape of Spišská Kapitula. nal Romanesque building once served Th is former clerical town, referred to as a royal representative temple and also as the Slovak “Vatican”, was estab- only took on its current noble appear- lished at the crossroads of key routes ance after many reconstructions, and below Spiš Castle. Today it is the revived so now complements this region rich in headquarters of the Spiš diocese. cultural and historical treasures.

UNESCO EN.indd 12 30.5.2013 17:25:17 Information Centre: Turistické informačné centrum Spišská Nová Ves Letná 49, 052 01 Spišská Nová Ves Tel.: +421 53 16 186, 53 429 82 93 [email protected] www.spisskanovaves.eu Church of the Holy Spirit in Žehra Levoča: Th e complex of world cultural heritage Th e village of Žehra is overlooked by one N 49°01‘31.60“ E 20°35‘19.33“ in the Spiš region is complemented also of the largest and oldest travertine forma- Spišský hrad: by the RC Church of the Holy Spirit in tions in Slovakia, making up the natural N 49°00‘01.47“ E 20°46‘05.81“ Žehra, which serves primarily for holy reservation Dreveník. Th e rich archaeolo- Spišské Podhradie: mass, but its unique interiors also draw gical fi ndings here and the presence of rare N 48°59‘59.85“ E 20°45‘06.05“ in many an admiring tourist. Th e artis- species of plants, defi nitely make Dreveník Spišská Kapitula: tically created and unique wall murals one of the most attractive tourist destina- N 48°59‘56.20“ E 20°45‘11.00“ dating from various centuries depict tions in the Spiš region. Th e ascent to the Žehra: diff erent biblical scenes. Th e typical top of the hill off ers amazing panoramas N 48°58‘43.46“ E 20°47‘34.04“ bulbous roof of this national cultural of the Branisko mountain massif and the Dreveník: monument is clearly visible also from hills of Levočské vrchy, which create the N 48°58‘55.66“ E 20°46‘28.03“ Spiš Castle. perfect natural backdrop to Spiš Castle.

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Bardejov The Gothic pearl of Šariš region

Only few places in Slovakia can boast which is rightfully proud of its medieval surrounded by original stately burgher such a rich array of rare monuments as monuments was fi rst chronicled back in houses with typical gable roofs, is the the town of Bardejov. In 1986 it was the 1241. At that time, Bardejov was at the impressive Gothic Basilica minor of St. fi rst place in Slovakia awarded the pres- junction of key trade routes and so was Egidius from the 14th century. Th e in- tigious European Prize – Gold Medal by granted various special rights and privi- terior of the church enchants visitors the ICOMOS International Foundation leges. Th e most important of these was by the unique set of eleven late Gothic Board of Trustees at UNESCO. Th en in granted in 1376 when Bardejov became winged altars, some of which are re- 2000 the town with over 770 years of a free royal town. garded as top examples of European history was entered in the UNESCO woodcarving. Another unique building World Heritage List, thereby ranking Nowadays, Slovakia’s most Gothic town on the square is the centrally positioned the unique historical core of Bardejov gives visitors the chance to admire one Gothic-Renaissance Town Hall building and the complex of distinct buildings of the best preserved examples of town with interesting historic exposition of of the Jewish community among the fortifi cations, classed by their impor- Šariš Museum. valued treasures of world culture. tance to the European Cultural Heritage fund. Without doubt, the dominant fea- Not far from the town centre you can Th e existence of the town of Bardejov, ture of the magical rectangular square, fi nd what is now a curious novelty of

UNESCO EN.indd 14 30.5.2013 17:25:28 East Slovakia – the only partly pre- Tips for trips served set of former Jewish baths and synagogue, the remains of a suburban Wooden churches – a number of ar- centre from the end of the 18th century, chitectonic unique wooden churches, built in a planned way and according to some of which are included in the the Talmud regulations. UNESCO World Heritage List. Ľubovňa Castle – a castle with a rich An inherent and inseparable part of the history, interesting architecture and town of Bardejov is the famous Bardejov attractive programme all summer Spa, which is one of the most beautiful long. and popular spa destinations in Slovakia. Levoča, Spiš Castle and sur- Th is oasis of health and relaxation has rounding monuments – world ar- played host to many historical fi gures, chitectonic treasures included in the like Marie Louise of Austria, second wife UNESCO World Heritage List. of Emperor Napoleon, Russian Tsar Ale- xander I, or Empress Elisabeth, wife of Franz Joseph I, known fondly as Sissi. Information Centre: Turisticko-informačná Bardejov off ers its visitors a rich pro- kancelária Bardejov gramme of cultural and social events throughout the year. Th e better known Radničné námestie 21 events organised by the town include 085 01 Bardejov the Knight Roland Games, the J. Grešák Tel.: +421 54 474 40 03 Organ Days – international festival of [email protected] organ music, and last but not least, the www.tik-bardejov.sk traditional annual market fete in the www.bardejov.sk last week in August, which has a history N 49°17‘30.62“ E 21°16‘35.26“ dating back to the 14th century.

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Wooden churches Unique sacral treasures

Th ere are over 40 unique wooden Many wooden churches still being used sacral buildings scattered through- today for religious ceremonies were out Slovakia, with the eight rarest of built solely from wood, with not a sin- them being included in the UNESCO gle metal nail used in their construc- World Heritage List in 2008. Th e tion. Th e stunning interiors and the in- wooden Roman Catholic churches in ternal decoration of the chapels are also Hervartov and Tvrdošín, the articled made of wood, underlining further the Evangelical churches in Kežmarok, uniqueness of these rare buildings. Leštiny and Hronsek, and shrines of the Eastern Orthodox Church in Th e pride of Orava town of Tvrdošín is its Bodružal, Ladomirova and Ruská oldest preserved monument, the Gothic Bystrá, are among the greatest and wooden All Saints Church with its rare most interesting sacral gems that Baroque altar and stunning arch murals. Slovakia has to off er its visitors in the Slovak part of the Carpathian Th e striking Orava region conceals arc. a unique treasure in the shape of the

UNESCO EN.indd 16 30.5.2013 17:25:39 wooden articled church in Leštiny. rals, a richly decorated pulpit and Tips for trips Th e church interior is richly adorned, a rare Baroque altar with fi ne wood- being dominated by fl owery wall mu- carving. Orava Castle – one of the most visited castles in Slovakia; raft tours along the River Orava. Podbiel – folk architecture reservation. Zuberec – Orava Village Museum with typical architecture of the Orava region.

Information Centre: Turistická informačná kancelária Dolný Kubín Hviezdoslavovo námestie 1651/2 026 01 Dolný Kubín Tel.: +421 43 581 44 70 Mob.: +421 915 049 407 [email protected] www.dolnykubin.sk (only in Slovak)

Tvrdošín: N 49°20‘11.64“ E 19°33‘29.31“ Leštiny: N 49°11‘18.92“ E 19°20‘58.85“

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Th e surroundings of the historical In a perfect setting below the spectacu- Tips for trips former mining town of Banská Bystri- lar peaks of the High Tatra mountains ca off er visitors a special treat not far (Vysoké Tatry), the historic town of Zvolen Castle – the dominant feature from the village of Hronsek. A unique Kežmarok is home to a Baroque wooden of the town of Zvolen housing collec- feature of the local wooden articled Church of the Holy Trinity, which was tions of the Slovak National Gallery. church from 1726 is its framework con- built in the shape of an equal-armed Greek Banská Bystrica – historic town with struction. Th e interior is adorned with cross. One of the most impressive and many attractions and events. a colourful altar with six exchangeable striking wooden churches, it also conceals Tatranská magistrála – a hiking pictures, the choir benches arranged fascinating wood carvings, unique frescos, route along the southern slopes of like an amphitheatre, and it boasts ex- a stunning large wooden altar and a rare Vysoké Tatry Mountains (High Tatras). cellent acoustics. church organ with wooden pipes.

Information Centre: Informačné centrum Banská Bystrica Námestie SNP 1 974 01 Banská Bystrica Tel.: +421 850 003 004 +421 48 41 55 085 Mob.: +421 907 846 555 [email protected] www.icbb.sk Kežmarská informačná agentúra Kežmarok Hlavné námestie 1, 060 01 Kežmarok Tel.: +421 52 449 21 35 [email protected] www.kezmarok.sk

Hronsek: N 48°38‘56.72“ E 19°09‘18.56“ Kežmarok: N 49°07‘59.17“ E 20°25‘42.65“

UNESCO EN.indd 18 30.5.2013 17:25:56 Th e picturesque Šariš village Hervar- One of the most beautiful wooden chur- Tips for trips tov is home to the oldest and best pre- ches of the Orthodox Church in Slovakia, served wooden churches from the 15th the Greek Catholic Church of Archan- Bardejov – Gothic town (UNESCO) century, the Church of Francis of gel Michael, can be found near the town with spas and open-air exposition of Assisi, where visitors can admire the of Svidník, in the charming village of folk architecture. beautiful pure Gothic icons and wall Ladomirová. A look at the interior of the Medzilaborce – Andy Warhol Museum murals. church off ers a rare artistic iconostasis of Modern Art. and altar from the 18th century. Humenné – Exposition of folk archi- Th e territory of East Slovakia can tecture, cultural monuments. boast several unique wooden churches, Right next to the border with Ukraine in but the Church of St Nicholas in the charming village of Ruská Bystrá, Bodružal is one of the oldest and a log Greek Catholic wooden Church of Information Centre: best preserved temples of the Eastern the relics of St. Nicholas was built in Turisticko-informačná Orthodox Church in Slovakia. Th is im- 1730, which diff ers from the other tem- kancelária Bardejov pressive three-section log structure ples of the Orthodox Church architec- contains a unique iconostasis, which is tonically. Th e interior is decorated with Radničné nám. 21, 085 01 Bardejov painted from both sides. a rare and unique icon of the Crucifi xion. Tel.: +421 54 474 40 03 [email protected] www.tik-bardejov.sk Zákaznícke a informačné centrum Humenné Staničná 1, 066 01 Humenné Tel.: +421 57 788 10 51 [email protected] www.humenne.sk

Hervartov: N 49°14‘47.64“ E 21°12‘14.68“ Bodružal: N 49°21‘09.05“ E 21°42‘28.81“ Ladomirová: N 49°19‘42.04“ E 21°37‘34.80“ Ruská Bystrá: N 48°51‘24.18“ E 22°17‘48.35“

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Caves Slovakia’s underground treasure

Slovakia off ers its visitors the opportu- nity to see the beauty of unique works of art created by the most talented master of all – nature. Stunning exhibi- tion chambers adorned with mysterious and breathtaking decorative gems, to be found at the very spot they were created over thousands of years, under the sur- face of this picturesque landscape.

Only a few places in the world have such an exceptional number of diverse karst formations as Slovakia. Th ere are over 6,200 known caves here, of which 18 are publicly accessible. Th e best known and rarest of the caves are included in

UNESCO EN.indd 20 30.5.2013 17:26:14 the UNESCO World Heritage List. Th ey estimated to be an unbelievable 138,000 km from the town of Rožňava. Its inner include the caves of the Slovenský kras years old. Th e astonishing beauty formed chambers, carved out by the waters of (Slovak Karst) and Aggtelek kras (Aggte- through millennia now presents visitors the river Styx and Domica stream were lek Karst) ranges, which were classed with a fairytale experience. discovered by people already 35,000 among the world natural rarities back in years ago. In addition to the beautiful 1995. In 2000, Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa Domica cave is the largest known cave rich sinter decor, surrounding peaks, (ice cave) also received the privilege. of the Slovak Karst, which is one of the mounds and attractive waterfalls, visi- most extensive karst territories in Cen- tors can also enjoy an exciting trip down Th ere are just three accessible aragonite tral Europe. Th e cave can be found at the river Styx provided the water level is caves in the world, and alongside Mexico the Slovak-Hungarian border about 25 high enough. and Argentina, Slovakia also boasts one of its own. Ochtinská aragonitová jaskyňa (aragonite cave) has an exceptional aesthetic value and is the only cave of its kind in Europe. We fi nd it underground below the hills of Revúcka vrcho- vina on the northern fl ank of Hrádok hill, about 26 km from the town of Rožňava. Th e cave represents a unique natural phe- nomenon, which is exceptional by the variety, richness and beauty of the aragonite creations. Its underground chambers, accessible over a length of roughly 300 m, are adorned with aragonite crystals with the formations reminiscent in some places of fragile corals and elegant sea fl ow- ers fl oating on the arches of the cave. Th e oldest part of the aragonite spectacle is

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UNESCO EN.indd 22 30.5.2013 17:26:21 Gombasecká jaskyňa cave can be tions in the world, while also being the Tips for trips found at the foot of the plain Silická largest in the moderate climate band. planina, approximately 10 km from the City of Košice (EHMK 2013) – with town of Rožňava. It has two fl oors, which Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa (ice cave) Gothic St. Elizabeth Cathedral in the were created by the action of the stream is one of the most signifi cant caves in distinctive historical square, home to Čierny potok. Th e underground temple the world thanks to its icy nature. Its many cultural monuments and events. 1 525 m in length excels with the unusual uniqueness is further boosted as it is the Štós Spa – climatic spa in the lap of sinter decor in the shape of unique thin lowest positioned of all world renowned scenic countryside. tubular stalactite formations. In some ice caves. It lies at an altitude of just 920 m Slovenský kras National Park – places they are up to three metres long above sea level, roughly 20 km from hiking and cycling along some unu- and thanks to their sheer number give the village of Dobšiná in the Spišsko- sual creations of the karst moun- the impression that it is raining rock. Gemerský kras (Spiš-Gemer karst) in the tains with panoramic views of the territory of the National Park of Sloven- surroundings. Jasovská jaskyňa cave is to be found on ský raj. Th e amazing icy decor, made up the outskirts of the village of Jasov in the of more than 110,000 cubic metres of ice, hills of Medzevská pahorkatina, in the is up to 25 m thick in some places, and Information Centre: western part of the Košice basin. Parlours, occupies an amazing 10,000 square me- Turistické informačné centrum domes, rock waterfalls and corridors with tres. Th e main part of the cave represents Rožňava rich sinter decorations in white, greyish a huge hollow dropping down from the brown and brownish red colours were cold north opening down to a depth of Námestie baníkov 32, 048 01 Rožňava created here by the Bodva stream. Th anks 70 m. Th is huge subterranean glacier Tel.: +421 58 732 81 01 to 90-98% humidity in the cave, it is used gives visitors the chance to admire the [email protected] for therapeutic speleo-climatic stays. fl oor ice, gorgeous ice columns, magical Turistické informačné centrum icefalls and stalagmites. Th e air tempera- Dobšiná Krásnohorská jaskyňa cave is located ture in the lower parts of the cave remains on the northern edge of the plain Silická below freezing point all year round. Námestie baníkov 384 planina and is accessible only when ac- 049 25 Dobšiná companied by a speleologist. Its distinc- Th ese are the unique caves of Slovakia – Tel.: +421 58 794 11 54 tive unique feature, a monumental column stunning natural beauties, places shroud- [email protected] – so-called Dripstone of Rožňava Cavers ed in unforgiving darkness, where beams www.dobsina.sk (only in Slovak) (Kvapeľ rožňavských jaskyniarov), is 32.6 m of light let visitors discover mysterious in height and 12 m in diameter at the base, subterranean beauties and the unique www.ssj.sk making it one of the largest sinter forma- artistic creations of nature.

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The beech wildwoods of the Carpathians The enchantment of virgin nature

Undisrupted peace, the healing of si- the most forested protected area in tion and uncompromising hand of hu- lence, picturesque romantic spots and Slovakia called Vihorlat, in the hills of mankind. Here you can experience an the diversity of beauties produced by Vihorlatské vrchy. All four unique terri- unforgettable, and now also unique, virgin nature with a unique and en- tories with rare and untouched nature atmosphere of the natural environ- chanting atmosphere, can all be found were included in the UNESCO World ment of a true forest bursting with life in the beautiful environment of the Heritage List in 2007, alongside some and mystical treasures of nature. Th ey Carpathian beech wildwoods, lying top natural features like the world- are a prime example of how the forests in East Slovakia. renowned Yellowstone National Park looked thousands of years ago. Th e and the Grand Canyon in USA, the dominant species here is beech, which Protected localities of the preserved Galapagos in Ecuador, the Sagarmatha grows up to 40 m in height and lives beech forests in Stužica, Rožok in Nepal – Himalayas or Kilimanjaro in impressive 250 years. For centuries and Havešová are located in Slova- Africa. these muted witnesses of times long kia’s youngest national park, Polon- past have provided protection for the iny, which spreads out over the beech- Th e Carpathian beech wildwoods homes of its residents and a sanctuary covered peaks of Bukovské vrchy. Th e represent distinctively original forests for the many rare fauna and fl ora here, wildwood Vihorlatský prales lies in that were not touched by the civilisa- now often threatened or even extinct.

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Sninské rybníky bio water park – natural spa resort using the technol- ogy of self-cleaning of water with the Th e high peaks, stunning deep valleys trails or accompanied by an expert tour- help of plants and seaweeds. and typical small basins create a safe ist guide with a special licence. Astronomical observatory on the and undisturbed haven also for such One of the main entryways to these im- mound Kolonické sedlo with the rare animals as the brown bear, the grey pressive ancient wildwoods is the most largest telescope in Slovakia. wolf or Eurasian lynx, or even the Euro- eastern village in Slovakia – Nová Sed- Wooden churches in the villages pean bison and Eurasian elk. lica, the starting point of a hiking trail Ruský Potok, Uličské Krivé, that leads through the state nature re- Topoľa and Kalná Ráztoka – Or- Th e beauty of the unusually scenic coun- serve Stužica. Th is is an ancient forest thodox and Greek Catholic churches tryside here can only be enjoyed from of the Carpathians with countless gi- with unique wooden architecture. the marked hiking paths and learning gantic beech trees, fi r trees and maples. Th e silver fi r, typifi ed for its lifespan of up to 500 years, is rightfully referred to Information Centre: as the queen of this forest. Th e oldest Turisticko informačná piece of silver fi r here, standing almost kancelária Snina 50 m high, is more than 300 years old and has a base diameter of 5 m. Strojárska 10, 069 01 Snina Tel.: +421 57 16 186 For those who love nature and admire +421 57 768 57 35 its perfect harmony, who know how [email protected] to revel in the sounds, smells and rich Zákaznícke a informačné colours of the forest, who want to fi ll centrum Humenné themselves with pure clean air, relax in an exceptionally calm environment Staničná 1, 066 01 Humenné surrounded by therapeutic silence, and Tel.: +421 57 788 10 51 those who like to discover unknown [email protected] nooks and crannies, the Carpathian www.humenne.sk beech wildwoods are the perfect place www.sopsr.sk/nppoloniny/ to be.

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Fujara and its music A treasure concealed in the wood

We could not talk about Slovak history dition to the fantastic distinct sound, and its rich folk culture without men- the Fujara has a huge artistic value, be- tioning the typical wooden wind instru- cause apart from being complicated to ment called ‘Fujara’, which together with produce, it also requires a lot of skill and its wistful melodic music was included creativity. Th e traditional decorative mo- by UNESCO in the Representative List tifs, most often inspired by nature, are of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of burned out using acid. Humanity in 2005. You can witness the enchanting melan- Th e birthplace of this king among tradi- cholic tones exuding from Fujara at tional folk instruments is accredited to any of the many folk festivals that are the regions of Central Slovakia. It is said held regularly around the country from that Fujara was originally intended just spring to autumn. for sending out signals, but the impressive sombre tones led the instrument to be used more widely as a musical instru- Tips for trips ment. Shepherds would send tones out over the valleys with this extremely long Celoslovenská prehliadka fujerášov 3-hole fl ute while grazing their sheep, but (National Fujara Festival) – folk- also at all kinds of special celebrations or lore event held in July in the village of sadder occasions. Th e original motives Korytárky devoted to the Fujara and of Fujara tunes were based on everyday its music. life, with tunes on topics like shepherd- National meeting of Fujara play- ing, love and outlaws still known today. ers in Čičmany – folklore event held in September in the picturesque Th is imposing musical instrument is distinctive village of Čičmany, sur- produced mostly from elderberry wood, rounded by the uniquely painted log which has soft pith, is easily worked and houses. has excellent acoustic properties. In ad-

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Head Office Foreign Offices

Slovenská agentúra pre cestovný ruch Czech Republic Poland (Slovak Tourist Board) Slovenská agentura pro cestovní ruch Narodowe Centrum Turystyki Słowackiej Dr. V. Clementisa 10 Klára Badinková Ján Bošnovič 821 02 Bratislava Jilská 16 ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 47/51 Slovenská republika 110 00 Praha 1 00-071 Warszawa Tel.: +421 2 50 700 801 Česká republika Polska Fax: +421 2 55 571 654 Tel.: +420 224 946 082 Tel.: +48 22 827 00 09 E-mail: [email protected] Mob.: +420 776 765 477 Mob.: +48 606 236 044 www.sacr.sk, www.slovakia.travel E-mail: offi [email protected] E-mail: offi [email protected]

Hungary Austria Office Banská Bystrica Szlovák Idegenforgalmi Hivatal Slowakische Zentrale für Tourismus Soňa Jelínková Daniel Lukáč Slovenská agentúra pre cestovný ruch Rákoczi út 15 Handelskai 265 Námestie Ľ. Štúra 1, P. O. Box 35 H 1088 Budapest A - 1020 Wien 974 05 Banská Bystrica Magyarország Österreich Slovenská republika Tel.: +36 1 429 00 49 Tel.: +43 1 513 95 69 Tel.: +421 48 413 61 46 Mob.: +36 30 434 13 68 Mob.: +43 650 911 40 90 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: offi [email protected] E-mail: offi [email protected]

Germany Russian Federation Slowakische Zentrale für Tourismus Predstaviteľstvo Slovackovo Ingrid Sorat Upravlenija po Turizmu Hildebrandstr. 25 Ľubica Alušicová D - 10785 Berlin Posolstvo Slovackoj Respubliky Deutschland Ul. J. Fučíka 17-19, 123 056 Moskva Tel.: +49 30 259 426 40 Rossijskaja Federacija Fax: +49 30 259 426 41 Tel.: +7 499 251 76 31 E-mail: offi [email protected] E-mail: offi [email protected]

Issued: 3/2013 Autor: Slovenská agentúra pre cestovný ruch Text: Slovenská agentúra pre cestovný ruch Images: archív SACR L. Struhár, R. Buga, A. Vojček, M. Sabo, D. Bugár, M. Nikolaj, J. Lacika, M. Črep, A. Jiroušek, B. Schreiber Design and Print: Slovenská Grafia, a.s., Bratislava Project Coordinator: Cortes, Smith & Co. Slovakia, s.r.o., Bratislava

EUROPEAN UNION

This material was co-financed by the European Communities via the Operational Programme – Competitiveness and Economic Growth.

UNESCO EN.indd 27 30.5.2013 17:26:37 EUROPEAN UNION This brochure is not for sale.

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