If you're going to make a visit to Slovakia, you must visit the Slovak region of Spis. Spis boasts among the most beautiful scenery in Slovakia, and is also rich with historical and cultural spots. Bordered on the west by the Belanske Tatras and High Tatras on the north by Spisska Magura, and on the south by the Slovak Ore Mountains (Slovenske Rudohorie), when you visit, you'll see why the scenery is simply unforgettable.
How Spis came to be
In the mid-12th century, during the reign of King Bela Gejza, there was German colonization, which changed the course of history for Spis. Import trade routes ran throughout Spis, and the region was secured by castles, most important of which was the Spis Castle, the largest of the medieval fortresses in Slovakia and one of the most impressive in Central Europe. Spisska Kapitula and Spisske Podhradie have impressive architecture, such that they are even recognized in UNESCO's World Heritage Registry.
Other places to visit in Spis
The 13th century Early Gothic church is nearby, in the community of Zehra, with its impressive structure and beautiful paintings adorning its walls. You don't have to stop your tourist pursuits with Zehra, though. You should explore also the other important towns in the region: Spisska Nova Ves, Poprad with beautiful old part Spisska Sobota and Stara Lubovna, which is one of the oldest towns in the region.
However, what many consider Spis's crowning jewel is Levoca. Levoca is a former free royal town, and sits at the center of Slovakian history. The oldest writings of Levoca date back to 1249; back as far as the early Middle Ages, the town stored supplies, was exempt from tolls, and had other rights beneficial to trade. It was, in fact, part of the central route from Hungary to Poland.
In 1323, Levoca became a free royal town, with unsurpassed standing and affluence. Today, the church buildings there, including the Gothic St. James Church with the tallest Gothic wooden altar in the world, speak to this past. The residences that still gather around the square are also reminiscent of this past. Levoca's historical core is surrounded by surviving fortification, and is currently an urban heritage preserve.
Places to see in Levoca
Besides other tourist attractions in Spis, Levoca's town hall dates to the end of the 15th century; the town hall speaks of its autonomy and emancipation during this time, a rarity. Today, the Spis Museum is there. The Roman Catholic parish church of St. James is an important site for those interested in the ecclesiastical. The church is a National Cultural Monument, as is the main altar, which was created from 1508 to 1517 by Master Pavol of Levoca. Again, this is the largest Gothic altar in the world, with a height of 18.8 meters.
You may also visit Master Pavol's home in Levoca; it dates back to the 15th century and houses an exhibition dedicated to him. Finally, the Church and Monastery of the Minorities shows off the intricacy and beauty of Gothic design in Slovakia dating back to that time period. Truly, there's something in Spis and in Levoca for everyone; you won't want to miss it!
During your travelling across the Central Europe it would be a mistake to omit Slovakia and its most beautiful part Spis with town Levoca. One of the best choices to stay during your exploring of this region is Hotel U Leva in Levoca, with its cozy atmosphere combining the medieval charm with the present-day comfort.
ไม่มีความคิดเห็น:
แสดงความคิดเห็น