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.
Code of the Trip: G02
Time Period Available: All Year
Physical Fitness Recommendation:
A,
F
| Currency | Price/person (based on 2 people sharing) Min of 2 people |
| EUR | € 856 |
| USD | $ 1156 |
| GBP | £ 770 |
| This price includes: trip transport, accommodation in small comfortable hotel/pension - twin, double or single rooms with own bathroom and WC, half board - breakfast and dinner, guide services, information materials, entrance tickets and fees | |
| This price excludes: transport from airport to starting point of the trip and back, (our transport service) | |
Program of this trip:
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.
Clothing and Gear Required: trekking boots, backpack, warm waterproof clothing, raincoat
Note: Some hiking trails may be seasonally closed; alternative program will be available.