Between history and modernity, Slovakia offers a landscape rich in nature and thermal springs
La Slovakia, which separated from the Czech Republic in 1993, is a country of majestic peaks and fertile valleys, wide rivers and fast streams. Since 1 May 2004 it has become a member state of the European Union and since 1 January 2009 it has adopted theeuro. Between history and modernity, Slovakia today offers a landscape rich in nature and therapeutic sources, so much so that much of the tourism to this country is fueled by spas and spas that offer complete relaxation packages. The capital Bratislava, a city of half a million inhabitants, often called the beauty on the Danube, is located in an area bordered to the north by the confluence of the Morava river with the Danube and to the south by the fertile valley of the largest river island in Europe (the great Zitny Island or Rye Island). On the right bank, just beyond Bratislava, the Danubio becomes Hungarian and not far from the capital is Austria. Bratislava is located at the crossroads of amber street which leads from St. Petersburg to Venezia. In different periods, history has brought glorious peoples to this city: Celts, Romans and Slavs. But Bratislava was above all the capital of the Hungarian empire between 1526 and 1784. From the Bratislava Castle you can admire the Cathedral of San Martino, where nineteen Hungarian sovereigns were crowned with the crown of Saint Stephen. Walks in the city offer the opportunity to admire the University headquarters, the Istropolitana Academia and the National Theatre.
Speaking of castles in Slovakia, that of Orava it is one of the most beautiful in Slovakia. The highest part rises 112m above the level of the Orava River. It was founded in the mid-13th century and was one of the strategic points on the Polish-Hungarian border. Don't miss a visit to romantic Bojnice Castle: with its two parts, one Gothic and the other Renaissance, it is located on the western outskirts of the town of Bojnice, where it can be seen from much of the Upper Nitra region. On the border between Poland and Slovakia are the Tatra Mountains, a mountain range that represents the highest part of the Carpathians. The Tatras extend for 260 square kilometers in Slovakia. The highest mountain is Gerlachovsky Peak (2.655 m), but 25 Tatra peaks are higher than 2500 meters. Mountaineers and skiers can therefore find many ways to express their passion for the mountains in Slovakia. But walking and mountain biking enthusiasts will also find the opportunity to participate in excursions and hikes lakes Strbske, Popradske, Skalnate and Hincovo, the last of which is the largest lake in the Tatras. Between UNESCO world heritage sites is situated Banska Štiavnica, a medieval town born on the gold mines of the Štiavnica mountains and visited by more than 40 thousand tourists a year. Do not miss visits to the cities of Levoca and Kosice (the second largest city in Slovakia).
