Banska Bystrica

Banska Bystrica is the center of Slovakia and consists of mountainous areas that have many ski resorts which offer downhill and cross country skiing. The low tatras cross the region which is home to the Low Tatras national park, the largest in Slovakia. It consists of pine forests and unspoilt natural beauty spots.

There are also many of Slovakias finest caves including the famous Freedom cave. The main city, Banska Bystrica has some of the most varied and rich architecture in Slovakia. The clock tower in the city leans much like the tower of Pisa in Italy.

History and Identity

Like some other of the major Slovakian cities Banska Bystrica formed as an early settlement in the middle-ages and then was able to develop into a large, progressive town under Hungarian Rule. In Banska the Fifth King Belo acted as a modernising figurehead in the 13th Century, doing much to attract people and investment to the region. From this point Banska was able to flourish. The 13th century saw an influx of Germanic immigrants who assimilated well with the local population. Through foreign and indigenous efforts the people of the town utilized the areas' mining resources to the full. The mining of valuable metals and ores was to fuel Banska's economic growth through the centuries.

Though the mining resources dwindled and the industry had waned by the start of the 20th century, Banska has since managed to consolidate again to become a vibrant local economy. Emerging proudly from the Second World War as Slovakia's key area of resistance, and, maintaining the best parts of its identity through the Cold War that followed, Banska is today getting busy again. The Matej Bel University in the region and a number of supporting research colleges is increasingly supplying a highly skilled workforce in many industrial and technical fields, boding well for the growth of the I.T. and manufacturing industry in the future. At present the largest industry in the region is metallurgy, and with good opportunities for procurement and production, it is set to grow further. The service and tourist industries - taking into account Banska's attractions - also have very good prospects.

Culture and Tourism

One of the highlights of Banska is the wonderful architecture that makes up so much of the city centre. Through time the areas' general prosperity has been accompanied by the construction of some significant and beautiful buildings. One of the earliest still standing is the Church of the Virgin Mary, built in the 13th Century when Banska was beginning to form into the vibrant town it became. Slowly through history a number of other grand buildings were erected alongside this including the imposing Holy Cross Church and the renaissance mode Town Hall. These and others, being in such close proximity and magnificent to behold, are closely associated today and have been dubbed the town's 'Castle complex'. Overall the architecture contrasts in its inspirations; around the centre of the town visitors can observe clusters of buildings that variously reflect sacred, gothic and renaissance influences.

The city centre offers in many of its parts an awe-inspiring sight, though it manages to maintain a welcoming atmosphere. The main square and the streets branching out contain a useful mixture of amenities including tourist offices, libraries, shops, restaurants and cafes. In addition to the rich architectural tradition noted above, there are also relatively more modern designs embodying the spirit of the town and which are worth close viewing. In honour of Banska's essential part within Slovakia's resistance to Nazi invasion during WWII is a large and memorably unusual building. This is white in colour, asymmetrical in design and impressively unique in its effect. Also in honour of the Slovak National Uprising is a museum containing artefacts and documents from this proud event in Banska's modern history.

With several art galleries and museums in the vicinity and home to schools of the Matej Bel University, Banska possesses the key cultural institutions one would expect from the city in the heartland of Slovakia, and remains one singularly romantic in appearance.

Banska also offers a haven for anyone seeking to enjoy quality leisure time. Lovers of the great outdoors will find plenty to do in both warm and colder seasons. With the slopes of the Low Tartra Mountains in Banska's region, it is a fine place to come and ski. There are excellent facilities and local accommodation at the number of ski resorts that surround the Low Tartra's; a good range of skiing interests and abilities are catered for, and nearby is Donovaly Valley, one of the country's most prestigious resorts. For other sporting and active pursuits, there is also the large main leisure centre close to the town which includes swimming and gym facilities.

Banska is also a great place to step out into in the spring and summer seasons. Walking for pleasure and leisure is one of Banska's favourite pastimes. This is understandable given the attractive and expansive green land beyond the town being so accessible. The National park of the Low Tartras is a vast and glorious stretch of green fields rated as Slovakia's premier parkland. This area is good for keen hikers or just those seeking a nice walk; lovely views of tall mountains, ethereal rivers and mysterious caves await those willing to explore.

Transport

Flying - The regional airport can be reached most easily by flights from Bratislava that are fairly regular.

On the Train - Again the most frequent services are from Bratislava. Allow around 2 hours travel time. Change at local stations Zvolen or Martin wherever you are travelling from.

On the Bus - A good option if travelling from Bratislava because the bus services are direct and quite frequent, though allow at least three hours. Changes usually required if taking the bus from other Slovakian areas or European towns.

Driving - Take the E571 motorway link from the other Slovakian Cities.