Banska Bystrica (pronounced Banska Bistrica) is a central Slovak town, which was to be our base for the first half of our trip around Central Slovakia. It has one of the most attractive main squares in all of Slovakia and we were fortunate enough to be staying at the Hotel Arcade, which is located on the square itself. This was to be our home for the next 3 nights, while we explored the region around Banska Bystrica and beyond.
SNP Obelisk in Banska Bystrica by Verity Graham
The town of Banska Bystrica has played an important role throughout Slovakia’s history, no more so than during World War II, where it was central to the Slovak National Uprising in 1944. The SNP Obelisk in the town square, is one of many throughout Slovakia that pays tribute to the Slovak heroes that fought and lost their lives in the uprising against the Nazis.
A great place to find out more information about the Slovak National Uprising and WWII from Slovakia’s perspective is the SNP Museum just off the main square. This is one of best WWII museums I have ever been to, with a wealth of information that is very well presented. It was a highlight of the trip for many of the party and is a real unexpected bonus for anyone travelling in the region.
Having explored the town, we enjoyed a relaxing evening in one of the many cafe terraces on the square, before an early night in preparation for a trip to Kremnica and the heart of europe the next day!
For more information about Banska Bystrica, visit the main Heart of Europe website.
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