Kosice

Kosice, in the East of Slovakia, is a region of both plains and mountainous areas. The region is home to one of slovakias most important tourist spots, the 'Slovak Paradise' National Park. The park consists of a large protected area of natural beauty, waterfalls, Ravines, caves and ice caves.

The city of Kosice is the second largest in the country with many gothic buildings. The castle of Spissky hrad located here is one of the biggest in Europe and a very popular tourist destination as is the Mlynska Citadel.

Kosice identity - past and present

has been built to a large degree upon the foundation of its industry and commerce. As early as the 12th Century the city began to emerge as Slovakia's key area of trade, and one with additional strong pan-European business links. The city's economic fortunes have fluctuated markedly through the centuries. At its peaks however, Kosice's industrial boom periods have been on a par with the major growth areas of in Eastern Europe. As the struggles of the Cold War have faded into history so has Kosice begun once more to enjoy prosperous and hopeful times.

Kosice today could rightly be termed Slovakia's very own 'steel-city' due to the prominence of the US Steel factory in the area. Steel production plays a crucial part in boosting business and employment in the region, but Kosice, as any visitor will tell you, does thrive on much more besides.

Tourism and Culture

As Slovakia's second largest city and a regional seat of government for the county in which it belongs, Kosice's cultural landscape well befits a place of its size and importance. The main square in the centre of the town is a vibrant spot where many of the major events of the year take place, and with a scattering of traditional style cafés, restaurants and bars in the vicinity, complimenting the buildings of antiquity. Being rebuilt for pedestrians only, the square provides the perfect opportunity to stroll and soak up the historical atmosphere of Kosice. The city's cultural characteristics are embodied in the striking beauty of the architecture in this area. Most famous among its buildings is St. Elizabeth's Cathedral, built in the late 14th Century, making it the city's oldest structure. Its windows, panels, spires and alter are unmistakeably gothic in design; both the interior and exterior are awe-inspiring. Alongside St. Elizabeth's is the Empire State Theatre, foremost among Slovakia's theatres, where a rich variety of art and entertainment is on show. In Counterpoint to these famous buildings is the more modern but equally captivating Museum of East Slovakia, built at the turn of the 20th century and today exhibiting various collections of local artefacts. The stately 19th century Forgach Palace is also an outstanding sight within which is contained an extensive Science Library. The city also boasts an excellent university; with a large contingent of law and medical students it is one of the country's important seats of learning.

'Slovak Paradise'

Though not within the city of Kosice, the area of countryside known as Slovensky Raj - apt literal translation 'Slovak Paradise' - is within an hour's car or bus journey from the town. Standing within the area Spisska Nova Ves, the Raj is an area of parkland that is - by any rural standard - inspiringly beautiful in appearance. An ideal haven for ramblers, climbers, lovers of wildlife and just those seeking a break from urban life, a visitor will find a rich landscape encompassing perfectly formed forests, deep green pastures and azure waters and streams. The trails and slopes vary from the gentle to the adventurous and so welcomes serious hiking or just casual strolls. The Raj attracts visitors both from within and outside of Slovakia, so being in Kosice provides an ideal chance to experience it.

Kosice Transport

Flying

Kosice Airport International has regular flights to and from the major Airports within Slovakia. There are also fairly frequent flights to many European Cities, Prague and Vienna included.

Driving

Slovakia's small motorways and reliable signage will enable motorists to explore the best of Kosice and the locality.

On the Train

Good and regular train services run into Slovakia from all parts of Europe, some directly into Kosice, others with connections at Bratislava.

On the Bus

As with train travel, the bus service is regular and an economical way to get around Slovakia. There are also numerous Euroline direct services into Slovakia from around Europe