New Member Of UNESCO World Heritage - The Charming Town Of Levoca
It's not surprising that there has been a growing interest in the countries east of the European Union. Slovakia has really become a tourist destination, and there are a number of cities to visit. One of the most popular cities right now however is the town of Levoca.
Levoca has a relatively small population in that it is below 15,000. It is a historical area, and is almost like something you would see in a picture. It is 350 kilometers from Bratislava, and is the main part of so called the Gothic Route. There are also some national parks nearby, such as Slovak Paradise and High Tatras, which are great for tourists regardless of the time of year.
The town of Levoca itself has only been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since June, 2009 - but visitors soon appreciate that this recognition was well deserved. Secure within the well-preserved town walls - 6 watch towers still remain as well as 3 of the ancient gateways - most of the buildings in the centre of the town still have their original walls dating back to the Middle Ages.
The town's major portal, the Kosice Gate, is directly behind both an ornate Baroque church and an eighteenth century monastery. The town square itself, which is a photographer's dream location, houses the 14th century church of St Jakob, a Town Hall dating back in parts to the 15th century, several other impressively grand buildings and the symbolic and strange 'Cage of Shame'.
Within the church of St Jakob you will see yet another amazing site. It is a Gothic wooden carved alter, which is easily the largest of it's type. The alter was carved by the craftsman Paul.
Another great site to see is the Cage of Shame. It is something that you will not soon forget, and it is a relic from the past-an unpleasant past as it may have been. It is a relic from the times when common criminals were subject to public humiliation.
This is a town that will cause you to lose yourself. It is such a symbol of our past, and it is a part of Slovakian heritage that one will not soon forget. After all, the Slovakian National Anthem was heard first in this town.
Discerning visitors - and those with an eye for genuine value for money - will want to seriously consider the Hotel U Leva when they are looking for accommodation for their stay in Levoca. Not only is it conveniently situated in the town square, directly opposite the Church of St Jakob, but it is also a beautiful building in its own right. A recently and sympathetically restored medieval construction, the Hotel U Leva provides elegant and spacious rooms, many of which have views across the town square. As well as offering stylish, classical charm, however, the hotel also makes sure guests have the modern touches that many consider vital in their hotels. For example, rooms are equipped with satellite televisions with in excess of 200 channels in various languages and high speed internet access. There is a fitness and sauna centre, a pharmacy, souvenir shop, laundry and excellent facilities for disabled guests. The hotel's restaurant is probably the best in town, and serves great breakfasts and has an extensive menu in the evenings. When you add in the friendliness of the staff, many of whom speak excellent English, then you will begin to appreciate why the Hotel U Leva has become so popular.
Levoca is not a tourist 'hot spot' - indeed, for many people that will be part of its undoubted charm. What is certainly is, though, is a delightful treasure trove of Slovakian history, full of genuinely welcoming people. Go there yourself and discover Levoca, the hidden gem of Slovakia.
Levoca has a relatively small population in that it is below 15,000. It is a historical area, and is almost like something you would see in a picture. It is 350 kilometers from Bratislava, and is the main part of so called the Gothic Route. There are also some national parks nearby, such as Slovak Paradise and High Tatras, which are great for tourists regardless of the time of year.
The town of Levoca itself has only been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since June, 2009 - but visitors soon appreciate that this recognition was well deserved. Secure within the well-preserved town walls - 6 watch towers still remain as well as 3 of the ancient gateways - most of the buildings in the centre of the town still have their original walls dating back to the Middle Ages.
The town's major portal, the Kosice Gate, is directly behind both an ornate Baroque church and an eighteenth century monastery. The town square itself, which is a photographer's dream location, houses the 14th century church of St Jakob, a Town Hall dating back in parts to the 15th century, several other impressively grand buildings and the symbolic and strange 'Cage of Shame'.
Within the church of St Jakob you will see yet another amazing site. It is a Gothic wooden carved alter, which is easily the largest of it's type. The alter was carved by the craftsman Paul.
Another great site to see is the Cage of Shame. It is something that you will not soon forget, and it is a relic from the past-an unpleasant past as it may have been. It is a relic from the times when common criminals were subject to public humiliation.
This is a town that will cause you to lose yourself. It is such a symbol of our past, and it is a part of Slovakian heritage that one will not soon forget. After all, the Slovakian National Anthem was heard first in this town.
Discerning visitors - and those with an eye for genuine value for money - will want to seriously consider the Hotel U Leva when they are looking for accommodation for their stay in Levoca. Not only is it conveniently situated in the town square, directly opposite the Church of St Jakob, but it is also a beautiful building in its own right. A recently and sympathetically restored medieval construction, the Hotel U Leva provides elegant and spacious rooms, many of which have views across the town square. As well as offering stylish, classical charm, however, the hotel also makes sure guests have the modern touches that many consider vital in their hotels. For example, rooms are equipped with satellite televisions with in excess of 200 channels in various languages and high speed internet access. There is a fitness and sauna centre, a pharmacy, souvenir shop, laundry and excellent facilities for disabled guests. The hotel's restaurant is probably the best in town, and serves great breakfasts and has an extensive menu in the evenings. When you add in the friendliness of the staff, many of whom speak excellent English, then you will begin to appreciate why the Hotel U Leva has become so popular.
Levoca is not a tourist 'hot spot' - indeed, for many people that will be part of its undoubted charm. What is certainly is, though, is a delightful treasure trove of Slovakian history, full of genuinely welcoming people. Go there yourself and discover Levoca, the hidden gem of Slovakia.
About the Author:
During the travelling over the Eastern Europe we have luckily found this gem - Levoca town and its surroundings. We were very happy with the stay in Hotel U Leva - www.uleva.sk. It was the best accommodation we had during the journey.
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