Dukla Pass On the Slovak-Polish border, it is one of the most significant sites in Slovakia’s military history. A 49-metre-high observation tower stands here, offering a panoramic view of the vast area of the Slovak and Polish borderlands – the scene of fierce fighting during the Carpathian–Dukla Offensive.
The tower combines a sense of reverence with a unique view and is a natural stop for anyone wishing to learn about the region’s history.
The Dukla Pass – a gateway to history
The Dukla Pass lies on the Slovak-Polish border and is one of the most important mountain passes in the Carpathians. It was here, in the autumn of 1944, that one of the fiercest military operations of the Second World War on our territory took place – the Carpathian-Dukla Operation. Today, the Dukla Pass is a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike, who come here for the views from the observation tower, to reflect on the events of the war, and to enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings of the border region. Thanks to its location on the main road leading to the Vyšný Komárnik–Barwinek border crossing, it is easily accessible and serves as a natural gateway to the region.
The observation tower at Dukla
In the Dukla Pass area on the Slovak-Polish border stands a viewing tower from which visitors can see a vast expanse of Slovak and Polish territory – the scene of the fighting during the Carpathian-Dukla Operation. The tower was opened to the public in 1974 to mark the 30th anniversary of the Battle of Dukla. It is 49 metres high and was built on the site of the original wooden observation tower from 1959, near the temporary observation post of the commander of the 1st Czechoslovak Army Corps.
Works of art in the tower
The interior of the tower is beautifully complemented by works of art by the academic sculptor A. Račko Welcome to the Liberators, figural composition Common struggle akad. sculptor J. Koreň and sculpture I grieve akad. sculptor J. Kulich. The exterior of the tower is complemented by Linden branch - a symbol of Slavic mutuality from the academy. sculptor F. Patočka.
Tips for other day trips in the area
Dukla Pass It forms part of an extensive complex of military monuments that can be visited as part of a single trip. Nearby is a memorial Death Valley, one of the most impressive sites on the Dukla battlefield, featuring tank equipment on display in its natural setting. Other monuments and memorials in the vicinity of Svidník also provide an insight into the region’s history. Thanks to the concentration of these sites, you can combine your exploration of military history into a comprehensive full-day programme.
Source: OOCR RŠ
source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
Map
Gallery
Information
Dukla Observation Tower It is situated near Vyšný Komárnik, close to the Dukla Pass, and offers views of both the Slovak and Polish sides of the Carpathians. It forms part of a site dedicated to the history of the Carpathian-Dukla Operation.
Tourists can reach the tower by car along the main road towards the Dukla Pass, and parking is available on site next to the memorial. The site can also be reached by bus, after which a short walk is required. A visit here can be combined with visits to other military memorials in the area.
Before your visit, please check the tower’s current accessibility and opening hours, as its operation may be affected by the renovation works. The site and the surrounding historic monuments are also ideal for a leisurely stroll in the footsteps of the region’s history.
