In the Slanské Hills, near the village of Abranovce, in the woods above the village and in a place called Dzeduchovské, there lies a remarkable natural formation – Raslavkameň.
A place steeped in legend
Until recently, this iconic stone was known only to a few initiates and local residents from the surrounding area. It is horizontal and elliptical in shape, resembling a human face (skull) with openings for the eyes, nose and mouth. The stone is approximately 2 metres long, 1 metre wide and 0.75 metres high. Its surface is covered in moss.
It is said that the stone has healing properties thanks to the water collected from the hollows on its upper surface. People would rub the water from these hollows onto the affected parts of their bodies. It was important not to touch the stone, as one might transfer illnesses that the stone had cured in others. The water must be scooped up with a spoon, which is then left by the stone as an offering. A coin is usually given as payment for the healing treatment.
It is said that in the past, women used to practise magic here to enhance their beauty and attract a partner. The payment for this was ribbons, which they tied to the bushes in the surrounding area. A small-scale archaeological survey using a metal detector uncovered various coins, the oldest of which was a half-grajciar from the reign of Joseph II (1765–1790), dated 1776 (Smolník Mint), as well as a large number of spoons and small ladles.
It is precisely magical practices of this kind that are widespread throughout the Slavic world and bear witness to a long-standing tradition associated with Raslavkameň. There are several legends surrounding its origins, ranging from that of an unfortunate knight who fell madly in love with an unmarried maiden, or of a fiancé cursed by his fiancée, to that of a rogue who fell out with a sorcerer. You can choose whichever one you like best, but one thing is certain: the stone’s uniqueness and mystique make it well worth a visit. According to many, spending time at Raslavkamen is a very uplifting experience, and the place radiates positive energy.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
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