Like most relationships in this world, Slovakia underwent a divorce in 1993. The country officially separated from its long time partner, the Czech Republic, to become the country of Slovakia. No more Czechoslovakia for this country. Slovakia craved its own space and identity. What did the country get in the settlement? You might say the pre-nuptial agreement boded well for the country just due to its geographic location and rich heritage, keeping its mighty Tatra Mountains, canyons, caves, meadows, traditional villages, castles, hiking, and skiing.
Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, rests along the Danube River, mixing old town charm and communist blocks. Being the capital city, museums, galleries, shops, restaurants, palaces, and a castle crowd the center of political, social and cultural life in Slovakia. Among the greatest highlights in town, the Bratislava Castle shows off 15th century origins while the Slovak National Gallery boasts an overwhelming art collection.
Somewhat more charming, Slovakia’s Spis attempts to outshine Bratislava. Spis inundates with religious sites. The Spis Castle also falls in town. This is no ordinary castle. Not only does it hail from the 12th century, but it is also the biggest medieval castle in central Europe. From castles to cows, most head toward Nitra, the country’s agricultural capital. Nitra also holds a ruined castle and a gothic cathedral holding two 10th century saints.
Not enough castles and history for you? The southwestern gateway to Slovakia, Trencín will supply even more of those appeals. Up on a cliff, the town’s castle still holds court. It was first mentioned in 1069, but its present structure can only boast of being from the 15th century. Aside from Trencín’s castle, the Renaissance buildings about town are worth a gander through.
The country’s natural side comes alive in its many national parks. The Malá Fatra National Park decorates in pine-clad slopes with a rocky gorge entrance. The Park covers 198 square kilometers. Strapping on some hiking books, the Malá Fatra National Park remains ideal for high altitude walking. Rafters prefer to paddle their way through the Pieniny National Park. Rafters can glide through the Dunajec gorge, surrounded by 500-meter tall cliffs. Skiers head for the High Tatras of Slovakia. These mountains covered in alpine snow yield those ski runs, along with climbing walking, and cycling in summer.
The UNESCO list did not pass over Slovakia. In fact, the country crawls with UNESCO World Heritage sites. Vlkoínec is one of them, known for its folk architecture. Most of this town sits relatively untouched. It was originally a settlement for loggers, shepherds and farmers in the country. Most UNESCO stamped and approved sites continue in Bardejov. The town has the senior citizens edge in Slovakia for it is one of the oldest towns in the country. Riddled with monuments and Gothic architecture it is easy to see why UNESCO has given Bardejov the gold star of authenticity.
From Bratislava to Bardejov, Slovakia’s central European location leaves loads to explore and expound upon. You could visit its former partner, Czech Republic, but there are two sides to every story and Slovakia’s is worth hearing.
