Kralova Hola (1,946 meters above the sea level) is the highest mountain of the eastern part of the Low Tatras range, in central Slovakia. It is the landmark of the region and one of unofficial Slovak national symbols along with the Krivan peak. Kralova Hola is often depicted in Slovak folklore and Romantic poetry and the folk song Na Kralovej holi stoji strom zeleny belongs to the most popular Slovak folk songs.
Old legends say it got its name after the Hungarian king Matej Korvín who became enchanted by the wild beauty of the nature around the river Hron and by woods full of game which especially attracted him because of his hunting passion.
Four rivers rise under the mountain: Cierny Vah, Hnilec, Hornad, and Hron. The summit is accessible by hiking trails as well as a paved road from the Sumiac village, offers a panoramatic view of the Spis region, the High Tatras, the Liptov region and the valley of the Upper Hron.
Largely deforested by exploitative timber harvesting in the early 19th century, its timberline was restored to its natural elevation of about 1,650 meters above the sea level through the efforts of Ludwig Greiner in the second half of that century.
Tourists can access Kralova Hola by walking paths - literally from all directions, or by a popular cycling route. In 1960, a TV transmitter was built on the top of the hill, but access with a car is forbiden.
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