Bardejov: Gothic architecture, city history and nature

Gothic architecture, well-preserved city fortifications, and exhibitions on local history and nature give Bardejov a varied cultural character. The landscape also has a distinct setting: Bardejov lies in the Topľa Valley, bordered by the Čergov and Busov mountain ranges and the Ondavská vrchovina highlands. When planning a trip, you can choose to focus on the city’s history, regional nature, or seasonal activities.

Gothic architecture and city history

Bardejov’s historic centre was declared an urban conservation area in 1950. The Church of St. Giles is a three-aisled Gothic basilica with eleven late Gothic altars. More than half of the fortifications have been preserved and are well maintained. Together, these buildings offer tangible points of reference for exploring the town’s architecture and history.

The exhibition “Slobodné kráľovské mesto Bardejov” presents the town’s history from its first written mention in 1241 to the end of the 18th century. The Bardejovský jarmok, held annually in Bardejov, offers another recurring reason to visit. If you would like to include the fair in your travel plans, check the dates in advance.

Exhibitions on the town and the natural world

The exhibitions offer different perspectives on the region. While “Slobodné kráľovské mesto Bardejov” covers a period in the town’s history, “Príroda severovýchodného Slovenska a jej ochrana” focuses on the nature of northeastern Slovakia. The nature exhibition includes more than 1,700 exhibits and covers the orographic units of Čergov, Ondavská vrchovina, Pieniny, Busov, and Ľubovnianska vrchovina. Its subject matter therefore ranges from Bardejov’s history to the landscape regions of northeastern Slovakia.

Valley, mountains and nature trail

The Topľa drains Bardejov and its surroundings. At 1,157 metres, Čergovský Minčol is the highest point in the Čergov Mountains. The Lesnícky náučný chodník Čierna mláka is a forest education trail with 18 themed stops. These details offer a distinct guide to the natural side of a trip, ranging from the valley to a specific high point and a themed trail.

More places and seasonal activities

Zborov Castle, also known as Makovica, is a castle ruin above the municipality of Zborov in the Bardejov District. It was built in the 14th century to protect the trade route to Poland. The Church of St. Francis of Assisi in Hervartov offers another reason to visit; however, visits outside the summer season should be arranged in advance.

For a winter trip, the facilities in Regetovka are another aspect to consider. The ski centre has two ski lifts; its slopes are 1.04 kilometres long in total and are fully covered by technical snowmaking. Check current operating conditions before travelling. The ski centre also has five kilometres of cross-country ski trails; their availability is seasonal and should also be checked in advance.

Practical information

Bus route 5 runs to Bardejovské Kúpele via Mihaľov, Dlhý rad, Slovenská and Duklianska. Check the timetable before travelling. The tourist information offices in Bardejov provide free promotional materials about the town. By prior arrangement, organised groups can visit all exhibitions at the Šarišské múzeum Bardejov outside regular opening hours.

Discover more destinations: Fričkovce, Stebnícka Huta, Zborov, Bardejov, Bardejovské Kúpele, Regetovka, Smilno, Malcov, Bartošovce.

Return to the overview of the wider region: Prešov.