Veľký Šariš is situated in the Prešov Region, in the Prešov District, in the picturesque Šariš Valley. The town lies in the valley of the River Torysa and its most striking landmark is Šariš Hill with its ruins Šariš Castle. The historic centre of the town is situated mainly in the western part of the municipality, whilst the eastern part is characterised by more modern development and an industrial estate. The town’s cadastral area covers approximately 35.34 km².
Thanks to its location near Prešov Veľký Šariš is easily accessible and also serves as a good starting point for exploring the surrounding countryside. The town combines historical monuments, natural surroundings, sporting opportunities and cultural activities.
History of the town
The area now known as Veľký Šariš is one of the oldest settled regions in eastern Slovakia. Archaeological finds from the Bikoš site provide evidence of human presence as early as the Upper Middle Palaeolithic, approximately 60,000 to 80,000 years ago.
The first written mention of Veľký Šariš dates from 1217. The town’s importance gradually grew, mainly due to its location at the crossroads of trade routes. A route connecting the Balkans with the Polish Baltic region, known as the Salt Road, ran through the area, as did a road linking Halych and Spiš. Veľký Šariš therefore developed as a settlement at the foot of Šariš Castle.
An important milestone in the town’s history was the year 1299, when King Andrew III of Hungary granted the inhabitants of Veľký Šariš, Prešov and Sabinov certain rights as free royal towns. This strengthened the town’s economic and social standing.
Sights and the historic centre
The town’s most striking historical landmark is Šariš Castle, situated on a hill above the town. It is one of the largest castle complexes in Slovakia and also one of the most significant landmarks of the Šariš region. The castle grounds offer sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
Other notable monuments include St James’s Church, St Elizabeth’s Chapel, The Chapel of St Kunhuta a Rákoci Manor House. The town’s historical and technical heritage is further enhanced by a steam locomotive known as „Mill Pond“. The locomotive dates from 1882 and, according to the town, is the oldest surviving steam locomotive in Slovakia. It is located on the railway station premises.
The town also has its own Town Museum and Gallery, which offer further opportunities to learn about local history and culture.
Nature and leisure activities
The area around Veľký Šariš offers a range of opportunities for active leisure. A major tourist attraction is Šariš Castle, which can be reached via a footpath from the village below the castle. The castle itself is open all year round and also offers guided tours.
Other popular places in the vicinity of the town include Ponds, which form a recreational area ideal for walking, relaxing, fishing and cycling. There are cycle routes in the surrounding area, including an international route EuroVelo 11. The local cycling infrastructure also includes cyclomost Sarus.
Culture and tourism services
Veľký Šariš also offers visitors a range of cultural and social activities.
The town thus offers a combination of a historic settlement at the foot of the castle, well-preserved cultural monuments, natural surroundings and opportunities for active leisure. Thanks to its proximity to Prešov and good transport links, Veľký Šariš can be an interesting destination for a day trip as well as a starting point for exploring the wider Šariš region.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
Map
Information
Veľký Šariš is a historic town in the Prešov district, situated in the valley of the River Torysa at the foot of Šariš Hill. The first written record of the town dates from 1217, and its development was significantly influenced by its location on major trade routes.
The main tourist attractions include Šariš Castle, St James’s Church, Rákóczi Manor House, St Elizabeth’s Chapel, St Kunhuta’s Chapel and the historic steam locomotive „Mlinská džurka“. The town also boasts a museum, a gallery and a tourist information centre.
The surrounding area is ideal for hiking, cycling and walking. Visitors can enjoy a trip to Šariš Castle, the Rybníky leisure area or the cycle routes around the town. Thanks to its proximity to Prešov, Veľký Šariš is an ideal base for exploring the Šariš region.
