7 reasons why you have to visit Košice, Slovakia

The second largest Slovak city offers extraordinary buildings, various beautiful places and lot of interesting sights and events. Take a look at some of the top reasons to visit Košice in the eastern part of Slovakia as soon as possible.

1| European city of culture in 2013

In 2013 the city of Košice became pin on many „have-to-see“ lists thanks to prestigious title of European capital of culture (together with Marseille). Winning in the competition improved infrastructure, helped in reconstruction of many buildings and construction of new cultural centres as „Kasárne Kulturpark, SPOTs, or Hala umenia (Art hall). Even the amphitheatre, parks, castle of Košice, St. Elisabeth Cathedral and monastery in Krásna.

2| Sights in the historical centre

Košice are proud of the largest city sights are in Slovakia. Beautiful buildings are mainly located near the 1,2 km long Main street (Hlavná ulica). Once there was a spring in the middle of the street (Čermelský potok) which is today reminded with a stone replica.

3| Košice peace marathon

International peace marathon is held annually in Košice since 1924 and therefore it is the third oldest marathon in the world (after Boston and Yonker) and the oldest marathon in Europe. It is organized first October Sunday in the historical centre of Košice.

4| Gothic cathedral of St. Elisabeth

The construction of the largest cathedral in Slovakia started around year 1380  and it is the easternmost Gothic cathedral of western style in Europe. There are many amazing features, such as unique altar of St.Elisabeth, rounded stairway, solar clock from 1477. The northern tower is 60 meters tall and offers awesome panorama view of the city.

5| Singing fountain

Musical set with 22 bells was installed in the park in 1997 and since then every summer the singing fountain is bringing to life various bells and springs water lit in many colours.

6| Košice ZOO

Zoological garden in Košice is with the area of 288 hectares the third largest ZOO in Europe. It is located near Kavečany and you should plan at least half a day for a visit.

7| The oldest city flag in Europe

Citizens of Košice can proudly say they live in a city with the oldest city coat-of-arms in Europe. The angel with knights armour has represented Košice since 1369. Bronze statue is in the park near Gallery, another one might be seen on city hall.

Košice is beautiful during whole year but if you love wine, visit in the autumn is highly recommended because of the wine festivals. Medieval atmosphere and wine tastings take place in the historical centre and besides many other sorts you might try the local Tokaj. There are many other sights and buildings worth seeing such as Jacobs palace, State theatre, botanic garden, crafts street, railway of Košice and also shopping malls, cafés and modern places for relax and entertainment. If you plan to visit the heart of eastern Slovakia, have a look at Košice hotels.