The water tower is one of the most striking examples of engineering heritage Prešov. It stands in the Táborisko district, in the centre of the triangular National Uprising Square, in the town’s highest-lying housing estate at an altitude of approximately 300 metres above sea level. It no longer serves its original purpose – since 2013, it has been open to the public as a viewing tower and has become one of the favourite stops for visitors to the Šariš region.
Architect Viliam Glasz and the construction of the tower
The tower was designed by the architect Viliam Glasz (1882–1957), who was born in Szeged, Hungary. He settled in Prešov around 1910, and the water tower was one of the first buildings he constructed in the town. The builder was Mr Zajac from Prešov.
Despite archival research, it has not been possible to determine the exact date of construction. Available sources date it to the period after 1910 and before 1918. Interestingly, the tower’s construction was probably not directly linked to the building of the town’s water supply system and waterworks, which were built in 1906 between Prešov and Ľubotice. It appears that the tower was used for the storage of service water.
Technical design of the building
The tower stands 29 metres tall. At the top was a reservoir with a capacity of 350 cubic metres. The water stored at this height generated the necessary pressure in the water supply network without the need for continuous pumping – and it is precisely this principle that lies behind the characteristic shape of all water towers. The tank simply has to be higher than the taps it supplies.
Its location at the highest point of the town was therefore not an aesthetic choice, but a technical necessity. The base of the tower is surrounded by buildings whose floor plans mirror the triangular shape of the square – a solution which has naturally integrated the tower into the surrounding development.
Years of neglect and restoration
Following the modernisation of the water supply network, the tower became redundant and fell into disuse. This was followed by 23 years during which the structure fell into disrepair without being used in any way.
The complete renovation was successfully completed on 5 November 2013. The costs amounted to approximately 200,000 euros and the project was a joint investment by Prešov City Council and the Prešov Self-Governing Region. In the same year, the tower was listed as a tangible immovable monument of the city of Prešov. A restaurant and shop were created in the lower part, whilst glazed viewing areas were built at the top.
The regeneration project is an example of how an industrial building that has lost its original function can be given a new, meaningful purpose. Instead of demolition, the city decided to preserve the distinctive silhouette that has been part of the Táborisko skyline for over a century and to give it a function it did not previously have – to open it up to the public.
The water tower offers a unique view
You can reach the top by climbing 135 steps or, for a more comfortable option, by lift. This makes the tower accessible to families with young children and older visitors who might find the stairs difficult.
The viewing terrace offers a view across the whole of Prešov – the historic centre, the surrounding housing estates and the Šariš hills. In good weather and with clear visibility, you can see as far as the High Tatras. The best conditions for photography are usually after rain or during the cooler months, when the air is clearer and the horizon is sharper.
Practical information for visitors
The tower is open all year round and is managed by the municipal company Prešov Real. At the base of the tower there is a café of the same name, „Veža", and a lounge. Tickets for the viewing platform can be purchased on site at the café.
The tower stands to the east of the historic centre, outside the town’s conservation area, but the centre is within easy walking distance. The climb itself and the tour of the viewing platform take just a short while, so it’s ideal to combine a visit with a stop at a café or a stroll into the town centre. It’s suitable all year round – unlike many viewing points, the top is covered and glazed, so you can enjoy the view even outside the summer season.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: gopresov.sk
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Information
The Water Tower in Prešov It is a unique engineering monument and, at the same time, a viewing tower in the Táborisko district. It is situated on Moyzesova Street, not far from the town centre. The tower is 29 metres and offers panoramic views of Prešov and, on a clear day, the High Tatras as well.
You can reach the viewpoint via 135 steps, and there is also a lift. The tower itself was built in the first half of the 20th century as part of the water supply network and originally housed a reservoir with a capacity of 350 m³. Today, it serves mainly as a viewing point and also houses a café.
How to get here? The water tower is easily accessible on foot, by bike, by car and Prešov Public Transport. From the town centre, you can walk there towards the Táborisko neighbourhood. You can park your car near the tower and then continue on foot for a short walk.
You can combine a visit to the tower with a stroll around Prešov and exploring other sights in the city centre. It is suitable for families with children, tourists and visitors looking for a short trip with lovely views.
