Banska Bystrica is one of the most important cities of Slovakia with its historical and cultural values. It is the sixth biggest city of the country. The city, which is situated on a large valley surrounded by the Low Tatras and Kremnica Mountains in the center of the country, is located on the bank of the Hron River. The city, which entered into the pages of history in the 13th century for the first time as a mining city, still preserves its Late Middle Ages appearance in the 15th and 16th centuries.
The fantastic nature, cultural monuments and unique architecture of the city significantly raise the tourism bar of the city. In the modern-equipped facilities of the city which becomes more beautiful in the winter season in addition to the summer season, you can do various winter sports. Alpine skiing is one of the popular activities of the region. Donovaly Valley, which is located 28 kilometers away from the city, is one of the biggest ski centers of the city and country. In the winters, there are always snow while the city still preserves its popularity in the summer months thanks to hot springs.
The buildings, which constitute the history reserves of the city, are generally located in the center. Namestie SNP is an important square that is only open to pedestrians. This square is accepted as the heart of the city. The clock tower is among the important symbols of the city. In the south of the square, you can see the Thurzov House which is the most beautiful building of the city. Namestie Stefana Moyzesa Square comes to the forefront with Virgin Mary Church which was built in 1255.
The city witnessed the Slovakian revolt that was started against the Germans during the Second World War. The old Town Hall, which was built in 1479, offers service as a museum in the city for keeping alive this incident. In addition to this museum, you can see many art galleries and workshops on the streets of Banska Bystrica.
Banska Bystrica, which is one of the cities that make a great effort to protect the nature, has many natural reserves. There are tens of natural areas around the city particularly Low Tatras National Park which the largest national park of Slovakia. The city, which is located in the westernmost corner of Horehronie, one of the eight regions of the country, is home to the Matej Bel University and the Art Academy, among the educational values of the city.
If you prefer flying to the city, you have a few transportation alternatives. These alternatives include Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport and Milan Rastislav Stefanik Airport, which are about 200 kilometers away, and Leos Janacek Airport in Ostrava which is 204 kilometers away. You can provide your transportation between the city and airports by train or bus or you can rent a car for a more comfortable travel.
