Discover Levoca – The hidden gem of Slovakia
The last decade has seen tremendous growth in the number of travelers visiting countries in the expanding eastern European Union, and Slovakia has been a particularly popular destination. People have discovered the fabulous city of Bratislava, for example, and, only 60 kilometers from Vienna, it is easily accessible for most people. Now, there is a real enthusiasm to explore the lesser-known parts of this fascinating landlocked country, and the small town of Levoca would be a fabulous choice.
Levoca, with a population of less than 15,000, is historic Slovakia at its most picturesque and alluring. About 370 kilometers from Bratislava, and part of what is known as the ‘Gothic Route’, Levoca lies in the heart of the incredibly picturesque Spis region. Close to the Slovak Paradise and High Tatras national parks, which are popular for both summer and winter tourists, Levoca is an ideal base for exploring all of this attractive area.
The town of Levoca has only been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since June 2009, but visitors soon appreciate that this recognition was well deserved. Safe within the well-preserved city walls (6 watchtowers still remain, as well as 3 of the old entrance gates), most of the buildings in the city center still retain their original walls dating back to the Middle Ages. Half.
The city’s main gate, the Kosice Gate, stands just behind an ornate Baroque church and an 18th-century monastery. A photographer’s dream spot, the town square itself is home to the 14th-century St. James’s Church, a town hall partly dating to the 15th century, several other impressive buildings, and the bizarrely symbolic ‘Cage of Shame’. ‘.
The Church of San Jacobo stands out especially for its magnificent example of a Gothic altar carved in wood. Made by the famous local craftsman, Master John Paul, this is the largest example of its kind in the world and, together with 10 other Gothic and Renaissance winged altars within the church, forms a stunning interior.
The Cage of Shame is just as memorable, but for very different reasons. This wrought iron monstrosity dates back to the 17th century and serves as a reminder of the public humiliations inflicted on scoundrels at the time.
Wherever you wander through this sleepy gem of a town, you’ll be walking back in time and you’ll soon understand why Levoca is such an important spiritual and social part of Slovak heritage. After all, it was here that the Slovak national anthem was first sung in the 19th century.
Discerning visitors, and those looking for value for money, will want to seriously consider Hotel U Leva when searching for accommodations for their stay in Levica. Not only is it conveniently situated in the town square, directly opposite St. James’s Church, but it is also a beautiful building in its own right. A recently sympathetically restored medieval building, Hotel U Leva offers elegant and spacious rooms, many of which overlook the town square. However, in addition to offering elegant and classic charm, the hotel also makes sure that guests have the modern touches that many consider vital in their hotels. For example, the rooms are equipped with satellite TV with more than 200 channels in several languages and high-speed Internet access. There is a fitness center and sauna, a pharmacy, a souvenir shop, a laundry and excellent facilities for people with reduced mobility. The hotel restaurant is probably the best in town, serving excellent breakfasts and an extensive menu in the evening. When you add in the friendliness of the staff, many of whom speak excellent English, then you begin to appreciate why Hotel U Leva has become so popular.
Levoca is not a tourist ‘hot spot’; in fact, for many people that will be part of its undoubted charm. What it is, however, is a charming treasure trove of Slovak history, filled with genuinely welcoming people. Go there yourself and discover Levoca, the hidden gem of Slovakia.