Park of Culture and Rest in Prešov, also known by the abbreviation PKO, is one of the city’s key cultural institutions. Its mission is to bring culture and social activities to both the residents and visitors of Prešov, and to provide a venue for concerts, events, festivals, community activities, exhibitions and various forms of artistic expression.
The history of PKO dates back to 1959, when the founding charter of the Park of Culture and Leisure in Prešov was issued on 10 October. From the very beginning, its activities were linked to the historic Black Eagle building on Hlavná Street. Over the decades, the organisation’s remit has expanded to include further cultural venues and activities in various parts of the city.
The Black Eagle – the historic headquarters of PKO
One of the most distinctive places associated with the Park of Culture and Leisure is Black Eagle, a historic building in the centre of Prešov. Originally known as the Reduta, the building was constructed in the late 19th century on the site of an older inn and has served the town’s social and cultural life ever since.
In the past, concerts, balls, social gatherings and events organised by local educational and cultural associations were held on its premises. The building has thus gradually become an integral part of Prešov’s cultural history.
The historic premises of the Black Eagle now provide an interesting setting for a variety of cultural activities. A visit, therefore, need not be solely about a specific event – the building’s historic atmosphere is an attraction in its own right.
Culture for all generations
PKO does not focus on a single art form or a specific age group. Its aim is to develop cultural life in Prešov across a range of artistic genres and to create opportunities for children, young people, families and older people.
The programme features concerts, festivals, theatre performances, exhibitions, community events, fairs, markets and other social activities. PKO also collaborates with local cultural and creative communities and creates opportunities for them to showcase their work.
Major events in Prešov
A significant part of PKO’s activities consists of events organised specifically for the city of Prešov. The organisation puts on a number of traditional events in the city centre, including Prešov City Days, the Fašiang festivities, the Prešov Christmas markets and the New Year’s Eve celebrations.
It is precisely during major city events that the PKO comes into contact with thousands of visitors. Its activities thus extend beyond the confines of a single building, and thanks to it, culture is brought directly onto the streets and into the public spaces of Prešov.
Cultural events throughout the year
The Culture and Leisure Park is open all year round and its programme varies according to the season. During the summer months, cultural activities also take place outdoors and in public spaces. Examples include concerts and other events as part of Prešov Cultural Summer.
PKO also organises markets, fairs and other events that help to create the town’s atmosphere during major holidays and seasonal periods.
A space for community and creativity
Today’s Park of Culture and Leisure is not merely an organiser of cultural events. Its mission is to create a broader platform for the cultural and creative community in Prešov. It supports various artistic genres, community activities and projects that contribute to a more vibrant cultural life in the town.
A tip for a cultural outing in Prešov
Prešov Culture and Leisure Park It is a place well worth a visit, particularly if you want to experience the city’s current cultural life whilst you’re there. Rather than a single permanent exhibition, it offers a programme that changes regularly depending on the season, public holidays and upcoming events.
If you’re looking for cultural events in Prešov, whether it’s a concert, festival, fair, exhibition or community event, it’s worth keeping an eye on the PKO’s current programme. Thanks to its activities, you can experience culture not only in the historic premises of the Black Eagle, but also right on the streets and in the city’s public spaces.
Source: OOCR RŠ
source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
Map
Information
The Culture and Leisure Park is situated on Hlavná Street in the historic centre of Prešov. Its main base is the Čierny orol building, although the PKO’s activities also take place at other locations around the city and in public spaces.
PKO does not have standard opening hours like a museum or gallery. Its facilities and services operate according to the current programme and individual events. It is therefore best to check the current events calendar before attending a specific event.
The ticket office at the PKO headquarters is open on weekdays from 8.00 am to 4.00 pm. For specific events, ticket sales and admission conditions may vary depending on the organiser and the type of event.
It is interesting to note that PKO plays a significant role in organising major city events. Throughout the year, you can therefore come across its activities not only indoors but also right on the streets of Prešov, for example during fairs, city celebrations or the cultural summer.
If you’d like to visit the PKO as a tourist, it’s worth keeping an eye on its current programme. The programme varies considerably throughout the year and may include concerts, theatre performances, exhibitions, festivals, markets and community events.
