A region of unmistakable sights, tastes, folklore, but also sound in the form of a unique dialect. Captivating nature, preserved folk architecture and diverse cultural and technical monuments make Šariš the king of Slovak regions.
In its centre lies the “strawberry town” Prešov. Its history dates back to the 12th century. The third largest city in Slovakia was once the site of the famous Royal Route - the Via Regale - connecting the Black and Baltic Seas. There is one more interesting feature running through it, namely the 49th parallel. The town and its immediate surroundings have an extremely rich and even unique mining history. In Prešov (Soľná Baňa), salt mining began in the 16th century as the first salt mine in Slovakia. So is the Šariš metropolis of Prešov, originally Eperjes, the city of strawberries or the city of salt?
If you head to the Slanské vrchy Mountains, in their hills you will find a world unique, the oldest and most extensive opal mine in the world, up to 30 kilometres long. This is where the largest opal ever found, the Harlequin opal, comes from. Opals from this part of the world were part of the royal jewellery.
When you come out of opal fever, you can go straight from the underground into the hills to the surrounding castles. The historical centre of Šariš was once Šariš Castle and offers incredible photogenic views.
Love history? From Prešov you are close to it in every direction. Right in the centre, in beautiful spaces Rákoczy Palace houses the Regional Museum. Visit the most important sacral building St. Nicholas Cathedral and preserved Jewish orthodox synagogue with a rare collection of Judaica.
After a rich dose of history and tasting typical Sharis gastronomic specialties, discover ski & bike centre Lysá in Drienica. You can take the longest cable car in Slovakia.
You will fall in love with Šariš with every view. You will love it with your eyes, taste buds and ears. You will gain strength in the newly built aquapark Lipany and get to know Oscar's city along the way Sabinov. If you want to travel back in time, visit the unique place Archaeopark in Hanušovce nad Topľou.
The Šariš region has produced a record number of well-known musicians and actors. Folklore is still alive here today. So, if you're looking for a multi-experience and multi-genre region that has something for every side of your adventurous self, be sure to head to Šariš. And before that, learn the basic phrase: “Her?”
