Levoca In Slovakia Is The Best Hidden Gem Of Central Europe

The last decade has seen an enormous growth in the numbers of travelers visiting countries in the east of the expanding European Union, and Slovakia has been a particularly popular destination. People have discovered what a fabulous city Bratislava is, for example, and, just 60 kilometres away from Vienna, it is within easy reach for most people. Now, there is a real enthusiasm for exploring the less well-known parts of this fascinating, land-locked country – and the small town of Levoca would make a fabulous choice.

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 recognized 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 center 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’.

Inside the Church of St Jakob you will find it’s Gothic wooden carved alter. This was made by the craftsman Paul, and is the largest one in the world.

The Cage of Shame is one site that is quite memorable, though the reasons for it being memorable are different from the other sites in the town. The Cage of Shame is a sign of ages past, when public humiliation was less than a thing of the past.

Wherever you wander in this peaceful jewel of a town, you’ll be walking through time, and you will soon come to understand why Levoca is such an important spiritual and social part of Slovakian heritage. It was here, after all, that the Slovakian National Anthem was first sung in the 19th century.

There is a great hotel to stay at in the town, which is known as the Hotel U Leva. It is located in the town square, and is nearly impossible to miss. It is a beautiful sign of the classic era with all the modern amenities inside. In addition to that, there is also a great restaurant within.

It’s not a real tourist attraction yet, but that simple old fashioned charm certainly makes it attractive to many. It contains a plethora of Slovakian history, and tourists are always welcome.

When you visit Levoca, do not miss Hotel U Leva. It was one of the best places we stayed during our journey in Central Europe.