If there is one place in Spiš that simply cannot be missed while hiking or exploring the region, it is the town of Kežmarok. Thanks to its rich history, it is one of the oldest towns in Slovakia and was granted town privileges as early as 1269 by the Hungarian king Béla IV.
The Slovak “Route 66” passes through Kežmarok, making it a perfect starting point for trips to both sides of the Tatra Mountains — the Belianske Tatras and the High Tatras. Alongside its well-preserved medieval historic center, the town also offers peaceful natural spots and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
If you truly want to explore all the important historical landmarks Kežmarok has to offer, even a full day may not be enough. It is no coincidence that the town ranks among the most significant historic cities in Slovakia.
Among its monuments, the first to be mentioned is a unique trio of cultural treasures. The highlight is the wooden Articular Church, a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site. Built without the use of a single nail, its extraordinary interior has served as the setting for several films, including the famous Slovak fairy tale Perinbaba.
Right next to the wooden church stands the Evangelical Lyceum, a national cultural monument that is still home to one of the largest historic libraries in Central Europe. Many of Slovakia’s most important literary figures studied here, including P. O. Hviezdoslav, Janko Kráľ, P. J. Šafárik, Samo Chalupka, Martin Rázus, and Karol Kuzmány.
On the opposite side of the wooden church rises another iconic landmark — the Red Evangelical Church, whose architecture resembles sacred buildings of the Orient. Besides its beautiful interior, the church also houses the mausoleum of the important prince Imrich Thököly.
Across the historic center stands the majestic late Gothic Basilica of the Holy Cross, featuring the oldest and most beautiful Renaissance bell tower in Slovakia. Inside the basilica, visitors can admire a remarkable altar created by Master Paul of Levoča. In 1998, the church was elevated to the rank of a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II, making it the only non-Marian basilica in Slovakia.
Another must-see attraction is the perfectly preserved Kežmarok Castle, which houses numerous fascinating exhibits, including a hunger dungeon, a historic pharmacy, a castle courtyard, and a chapel. A visit to the castle is highly recommended.
In the town center, you will also find the beautiful Town Hall from 1461, the classicist Reduta, the Baroque Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary—unusual for being built between town houses—remains of the 15th-century city walls, an old cemetery from the 17th century, an Orthodox Jewish cemetery, an Art Nouveau railway station, and Turbína, the oldest continuously operating hydroelectric power plant in Slovakia, dating back to 1914.
The surroundings of Kežmarok are equally captivating, offering untouched nature reserves such as Hájovňa, home to wild animals, a beaver dam, and a fish-filled pond. The area also provides several designated spots for campfires and barbecues, ideal for spending time with family or friends.
Kežmarok and its surroundings are truly unmissable — a place that will win you over with its historical soul and natural beauty.
