The first 45 pages contain a general overview of Slovak history, geography, nature, population, economy, culture and arts.
For instance, in the Architecture section a reader finds a short overview of the most important masterpieces - from Romanesque architectural style (the 12th-13th centuries) up to the modern architecture structures created in the 20th century. The art and culture chapter introduces the most important personalities of the Slovak culture.
Natural and Cultural Heritage chapter contains general information regarding spas and mineral springs in Slovakia.
"When comparing the carsting processes within Europe to those in Slovakia, the only countries with more extensive limestone and other rock massifs exposed to this process will be observed in Croatia, Slovenia and France," writes Jan Lacika in the section devoted to the Slovak karst and caves. Next section of the chapter offers a short overview of landmarks included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Looking for active vacation? The chapter named Active vacation contains sections Summer Hiking and Mountaineering Opportunities, Skiing and Winter Tourism, Water Sports and Bathing Facilities.
"Different forms of legal protection for nature and the landscape apply to more than 20 percent of the territory of Slovakia," writes the author in the chapter Preservation of Nature and Monuments chapter. "There are nine national parks in Slovakia, all of which are located in the mountainous areas of the Carpathians." And "there are a total of 138 towns in Slovakia and 18 of them have been declared town historical preserves… Additionally, Slovakia has 88 historical zones preserving urban and rural complexes of cultural monuments, such as Bojnice, Komárno, Liptovský Ján, Markušovce and Hanušovce nad Topľou. Tourists can find folk architecture monuments, 109 castles and chateaux, and 435 mansions in Slovakia. Skill and knowledge of the Slovak people confirm many technical remains left from the past.
Next chapters contain useful information regarding shopping, souvenirs, rest and entertainment, transportation, accommodation, and boarding in Slovakia.
Next 160 pages of the book are devoted to the capital Bratislava and to selected tourist routes.
Each of 10 tourist routes includes interesting towns and cities with historical monuments, nature and tourist sightseeing suggestions, tips for trekking and cycling. The text also features helpful pictograms, nice views and possibilities for swimming, walking and trekking, skiing plus accommodation, and railway and bus connections. Also provided are essential data on tourist information centers on the given route. Moreover, color pictures and layouts of the most attractive locations will help you choose the most appropriate route and destination.
Cover pages of the guide offer maps of tourist routes, a map of Bratislava's center and a map of the High Tatras mountains.
The book was published in Slovak, English, and German languages.
|