Zvolen is located at the confluence of the rivers Hron and Slatina. It is considered one of the oldest in Slovakia. Here already in the 4th c. n. e. there was one of the most impregnable fortresses in Europe – Old Zvolen, which was destroyed only once by the Tatar-Mongols. Its ruins have survived to our time and are now called Pusty hrad.

Fans of medieval architecture come to modern Zvolen. Now it is a calm and cosy European city, which is especially popular during the Christmas holidays. There are few places in Europe where you can find such fabulous rural estates where they organize festive festivities according to old traditions.

Ancient city – rich history

In the 4th century, the territory of modern Zvolen was inhabited by Slavic tribes. It was at this time that the first settlements and the fortress wall appeared on the left bank of the Slatina. After the Tatar-Mongols destroyed the fortress, the settlement was moved to a new place. Old Zvolen is now called Pusty hrad.

At the end of the 14th century, Louis I the Great built the Zvolensky castle, which marked the beginning of the city’s heyday. In the middle of the 16th century, Zvolen became a powerful fortress, which courageously repelled the attacks of the Turks. At the beginning of the 18th century, it became the industrial centre of Slovakia.

Entertainment and attractions Zvolen

The most interesting sights of the city are ancient castles: Stary Zvolen (Pusty Grad) and Zvolen Castle. The beauty of pristine nature and ancient ruins are conducive to long walks. In the warm season, theatrical performances are held on the territory of Pusta Grad, in which actors play scenes from the life of medieval Slovakia.

There are several churches on the territory of the city, the oldest of which, the Roman Catholic Church of St. Elizabeth, was built in the 13th century.

Zvolen Castle

For a long time, the Zvolensky castle was the residence of the Hungarian kings, who came to hunt in the local lands rich in game. Now the castle has become a branch of the National Art Gallery of Slovakia, it houses a rich collection of paintings and sculptures.