City of Banská Bystrica

"How the Lord God loved this region, when he could give him such beauty…" Banská Bystrica and its surroundings were perfectly captured by Honza Nedvěd in his song Banská Bystrica. After all, you won't find so much beauty together anywhere. This region in the heart of Slovakia boasts a famous mining history. Thanks to her, Banská Bystrica, Ľubietová, Staré Hory or Špania Dolina were known all over the world. After all, it was mineral wealth that gave the whole region the green light in its development.

Our ancestors in the region also left a wealth in the form of cultural monuments. The town castle complex in Banská Bystrica was built gradually from the 13th century. The most valuable monuments include the Barbican Complex, the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the Church of St. crosses, the historic town hall, Matej's house or the remains of the fortifications. Together with the medieval square, they form the center of one of the most beautiful cities in Slovakia.

A majestic castle rises above Slovenská Ľupča. It is also known for its centuries-old linden tree, under which Matej Korvín himself liked to sit. Particularly picturesque are the ancient churches in Španá Dolina and Čerín. The wooden articular church in Hronsek is even part of the UNESCO cultural heritage. Traditions are especially alive in the region. There is perhaps no one around the city who would not be at the famous Radvan fair at least once. Its unique atmosphere attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the city's streets every year. In addition, almost every village lives its own folklore and gastronomy. Legendary are gnocchi or turkey from Turkey, traditional lace from Brusno and folk music from Hrochote.

Perhaps the greatest beauty, however, was given to the whole region by Mother Nature herself. The beautiful mountains form a kind of crown around the whole region and add a unique touch to Banská Bystrica and the surrounding villages. Their slopes and ridges are a year-round attraction for hiking, biking or skiing. The mountain village of Donovaly is one of the most popular resorts in Slovakia. The picturesque mountains hide many magical nooks and crannies in this region and complete the color of every single village. The scenery of Španá Dolina is truly unique. Its charm has already captured the hearts of many and it is rightly called one of the most beautiful corners of our country.

However, there are many other, lesser-known places in this region that are worth exploring. And since man is a curious creature, the charm of the unknown promises a truly unique experience.

Where can you find the Leaning Tower, the beautiful environment with tradition and the modern pulse of the city? In the heart of Slovakia, in Banská Bystrica.

Destinations Central Slovakia, these are royal towns with a rich mining history, diverse natural beauty and protected areas, thermal springs, a real forest or even an extinct volcano. Whether you prefer rest and relaxation, culture and traditions, or you are looking for adrenaline and adventure, you will fall in love with Central Slovakia at any time of the year. It is one of the most attractive regions in Slovakia, not only due to its geographical location and excellent accessibility. The heart of central Slovakia is Banská Bystrica, also known as the "town below Urpin". Once a free royal city with a "copper" mining tradition, it later went down in history as the center of the SNP. At present, Banská Bystrica has become a modern city with important institutions, shopping centers and the most modern bus station in Slovakia. It has one of the most beautiful squares in Slovakia, which is dominated by a clock "leaning" tower, a stone fountain and picturesque town houses. The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary hides the gems of the Gothic art of Master Paul of Levoča. Other attractions include the castle grounds with a barbican, the SNP Museum, the Calvary and the Observatory. During the Slovak National Uprising, Banská Bystrica became the political, administrative and military center of insurgent Slovakia. The headquarters of the uprising forces were based here, armed struggle was fought from there, and the Free Slovak Transmitter was also broadcast from there. Every year, the celebrations of the anniversary of the Slovak National Uprising take place in the premises of the SNP Museum with the participation of the main representatives of the government with a rich cultural program and a reverent act of laying wreaths. Traditions such as the Radvan Fair or craft markets, as well as other prestigious events and festivals, attract tens of thousands of people to the city's streets every year. At present, the good name of Banská Bystrica is spread mainly by gold Olympic medalists. Thanks to them, Banská Bystrica became the European City of Sports 2017. And what kind of city would it be without the lively life of young people? The city is home to several universities and colleges. Students make extensive use of the city center for entertainment and also have the largest and most modern club in Slovakia. However, Banská Bystrica does not only think about young people. All age categories come here for fun, not only from the immediate vicinity, but also from the far reaches of Slovakia and Europe. For those who prefer a quiet mountain environment, the area offers many opportunities for nature walks. More demanding hikes and pleasant walks with a mushroom basket. No matter how much fun you imagine and whatever your free time means to you, you will definitely choose in Banská Bystrica. "Alive in Bystrica, after death in heaven," - Banská Bystrica has been said since time immemorial. You won't find so much beauty of a funeral. Royal, copper, sports ... such is Banská Bystrica. It takes your breath away with the charm of its surroundings and in its heart everyone can find their place, which will fill it with the joy of life. The locals are cordial and hospitable. Whether you're wandering the narrow streets or admiring the skills of ancient builders, you'll get the special feeling of being here at home. Banská Bystrica is still alive. Feel her pulse everywhere. It has many forms and will always captivate you with its unique atmosphere. In summer with whitish skies and in winter romantically snow-capped peaks. Words often fail to describe well the feelings that visitors experience. Well, as they say, it's better to see once than to hear a hundred times. And therefore, during your wanderings, be sure to stop for a visit and enjoy all the beauties that make Banská Bystrica exceptional.