Presov

Presov is a highly mountainous region through which cuts the magnificent high Tatras mountains. The mountains are well known for the excellent skiing conditions. The main city, Presov, is the cutural and administrative center of the region. It has two medieval castles nearby, the Kapusiansky hrad Castle and the Saris Castle. Nearby, the Delna valley is a center for fishing, tourism and watersports.

History and Identity

Presov's turbulent past is the stuff of antiquity, with rebellions against The Hungarian Empire and imperial rule dating back as far as the 12th Century. Since the end of the Second World War, Presov has very gradually developed into the friendly and attractive City of today. It is one that offers modern accessibility whilst maintaining its historical character, not least in its renaissance-inspired architecture and landmark buildings. The main Church in the city centre was built in the 13th century and today still stands proudly, a stones throw from the area's busy shops, cafes and eateries.

Situated in the north-east of Slovakia, Presov is thought to be the country's third largest city and stands as the best-known area in the Sarris region. The city's prosperity had traditionally been built upon the excellence of its opal and salt mines, the latter of which remains today as an important source of supply and trade. Increasingly though the Presov economy thrives on the growth of the service industry and development of new businesses around Sarris, the Miller-run brewery being a prime example.

Tourism and Culture

Presov is very much an amalgam of town and country, with the city centre a focal point well blended with the quaint Sarris' villages that live peacefully by its side. The city area of Presov offers a wealth of cultural activity and entertainment. Through each season and indeed in every month, cultural and artistic events abound. The city's passion for music is satisfied in part by the Presov Music Spring in late winter, when many local aspiring musicians perform for the public. This is complimented later on by the Presov Music Autumn, a season that here sees a more cosmopolitan note being struck when the International Jazz Festival is in town.

Presov is a place that likes to pay homage to creative activity and cultural excellence, both indigenous and foreign. In winter occurs a National Museums Day, celebrating the work of museums across the world. In summer the Presov Prize acknowledges the work of people who have made a significant contribution to the community in many fields. Then, in autumn, there are a number of competitions and awards involving the achievements of individuals in a diversity of activities, from local business people to musicians, writers and poets.

For those wishing to experience Presov culture more directly, a good opportunity to purchase local curiosities is in the summer season with the inviting stalls of the Trinity Market. For the connoisseur or occasional drinker, Presov's Wine Festival - Muvina - offers a chance to buy or sample a wide range of Slovak and foreign varieties.

For the sports enthusiast Presov offers numerous opportunities to watch and play. Recent attractions for spectators include Davis Cup tennis matches, World Volley-Ball Championships games and the World Badminton Championships in 2004. Presov's Ice Hockey and Handball Teams both have excellent Stadiums, and the city's main football club, Tatran Presov, are among top Slovakian teams. Sporting facilities for the participant are generally very good and there is certainly an abundance of them in the region. The widest range of sporting interest is catered for; from football playing fields and tennis courts to a shooting gallery and riding school, whatever the sporting passion, you can pursue it in Presov.

Presov Village and Country

Outside of the vibrant town Presov's most alluring feature are its mountains. The Slanske Mountains in the valley of Sarris are a dominating, magnificent sight. These mountains are highly accessible for skiing and the valleys surrounding are ideal territory for keen walkers. For the more relaxed visitor, this mountainous region, together with the two calm rivers that run through it, provide an attractive vista.

Transport Flying - the nearest airport is in Kosice, around 15 miles from Presov, where there are also regular flights to Bratislava and Prague.

Driving - Take the D1 motorway link from Bratislava.

On the train - Trains from Bratislava run to Presov with a change at Kyask necessary; similarly with trains from Prague and Budapest.

On the bus - Direct bus services run from Bratislava. Straight connection services are also available from London, Brussels, Munich and Prague.