Discovering of the History of Central Slovakia

This trip will lead us into the history of central Slovakia. We shall visit ancient mining towns Banska Stiavnica and Kremnica, which bloomed during the times of Austro-Hungaria. We shall visit the ruins of long forgotten, but, in reality, the largest castle in central Europe, Pusty castle, above the city of Zvolen. We shall, as well, examine the rich inventory of chateau Antol and the Bojnice castle. Many castles are entwined by mysterious tales of the past. Certainly, these trips will be highly valued by the lovers of human history and old architecture.

• Itinerary
• Prices & Booking

Itinerary

Day 1:

Arrival to Slovakia, accommodation, informal reception.

Day 2:

We will visit the Manor House in Topolcianky. The oldest history of this building is connected with the history of the Topolciansky family who gave their name to the estate and village. The oldest construction details date back to the 15th century. In the course of times, the house had fused into a regular four-wing Renaissance main house with an arcade courtyard from the 17th century. After the tour of the Manor House, we will go to see the ruins of Topolciansky hrad (Topolcany Castle) that was built in the 13th century.

Day 3:

We will visit the Bojnice castle. Its history dates back as far as the 12th century. The castle had been reconstructed many times in Gothic and Renaissance styles. Its current appearance, however, was achieved during a complete reconstruction in 1889 that was encouraged by Jan Palffy, the owner of Bojnice, Smolenice and Budmerice manor houses.

Day 4:

We will visit the Zvolen castle that was built in 1370-1380. The castle of four-wings incorporates two block-like towers. The Late Gothic modification of the castle was completed in 1505. The interior of the castle is currently used for displaying collections of the Slovak National Gallery. Afterwards, we will ascend to the ruins of Pusty hrad (Deserted Castle) that is nowadays under extensive reconstruction.

Day 5:

We will visit the historical mining town of Banska Stiavnica. It has a unique historical center and the town with its surroundings was included in the UNESCO list of World Natural and Cultural Heritage. The Old Castle is among the most significant monuments of the town. It is an impressive fortification located on the foot of the Paradise Hill. The castle was built in the first half of the 16th century. Then we will go to the village of St. Anton, which is famous for its Baroque Manor House that was built for A. J. Kohary in 1774. In the Manor House, luxurious staircases and a number of beautifully furnished rooms can be viewed. A chapel is also part of the building.

Day 6:

We will visit Kremnica, another historical mining town. Mining and processing gold and silver-bearing ores promoted the development of the town. It was granted its municipal privileges by King Charles Robert in 1328. The castle from the 14th century and the St. Catharine Church built in the late 15th century are the most conspicuous parts of the town.

Day 7:

Farewell and departure from Slovakia.