A water-powered stamp mill makes a striking impression in Gelnica District: at the Banský skanzen, it illustrates 17th-century ore processing. The historic stamp mill is powered by water from nearby Turzovské jazero. Those interested in mining methods can also explore the subject in the collections of the Banícke múzeum in Gelnica.
Mining history in collections and exhibitions
The Banícke múzeum documents mining, folklore, local history, geology and guild life in its collections. The exhibits include miners’ tools, mine lamps, old mining maps and models of ore transport. Mining workwear and festive clothing are also represented. Together, these different objects show various aspects of the subject: from tools and ore extraction to guild life.
The štôlňa Jozef opened to the public in August 2016 and became part of the Banícke múzeum exhibition. If you plan to visit, check current visitor information in advance.
Forests, protected areas and cycling route
The natural monuments Margecianska línia and Závadské skalky are located in Gelnica District. The district is also home to the Kloptaň nature reserve and the Poľana peat bog reserve. Forests cover 74.6 percent of the area, the highest proportion in Slovakia.
A cycling route also crosses the district: officially marked Route 021 runs from Margecany through the Hnilec Valley towards the Dedinky recreation area. If you plan to ride it, check the route conditions in advance.
Wooden bridge and technical monuments
A covered larch-wood bridge crosses the Hornád between Kluknava and Štefanská Huta. Built in 1832, it is considered the only bridge of its kind in Slovakia. The bridge is used by local pedestrians and vehicles, although vehicle traffic is restricted. It is also a tourist attraction and technical monument, where distinctive construction meets present-day local use.
The Baroque castle in Kluknava is a national cultural monument. Another national cultural monument there, the Dom služobníctva, houses the Múzeum obuvi. In Rolova Huta, the Bujanovský Tunnel is a technical monument. Originally built as a railway tunnel, it connects Rolova Huta with the Kozinec recreation area.
Trails and peaceful stays
In Gelnica, the Banský náučný chodník begins at Banícke námestie, which is easy to reach from Gelnica mesto railway station. The trail is suitable for all age groups. Turzov is also accessible from Gelnica via a blue-marked hiking trail. The Lower Lake of Turzov offers opportunities for fishing.
Margecany lies at the confluence of the Hornád and Hnilec rivers, on the left bank of the Ružín Reservoir. Those looking for a quieter stay there will find a well-kept memorial park, Park Padlých, in the centre. It is suited to a short visit, quiet reflection and a peaceful walk. The places described therefore offer a range of interests: mining and technical monuments, marked trails, nature and a quiet spot in the town centre.
Discover more destinations
Nalepkovo, Kluknava, Gelnica, Margecany, Košice-Okolie District, Rožňava, Michalovce District, Sobrance District
Back to the regional travel overview: Košice.
