Zlatníky lies at the northeastern foot of Považský Inovec and along the upper reaches of the Livina stream. The municipality’s territory ranges from 260 to 975 m above sea level; the village centre is at 270 m. The centre is therefore near the lower end of the full elevation range, while the municipality also includes areas at considerably higher elevations.
Road connections are an important part of getting your bearings: two third-class state roads lead to Zlatníky and connect the village with all neighbouring municipalities in the district.
Landscape and Trails
The Duchonka-Kulháň educational trail is a self-guided walking route that can be walked in either direction. It is rated easy and can be used in both summer and winter. Being able to walk in either direction lets you choose which way to go; no guide is required for this self-guided route. The arboretum and 14 marked tree species give the trail an additional, tangible connection to nature. The oaks in the Kulháň area are estimated to be 300 to 550 years old. One section of the educational trail follows the embankment of the former forest railway.
The Kulháň protected area covers a total of 128.9765 ha. It lies in Topoľčany District, within the cadastral area of Prašice, and in Bánovce nad Bebravou District, within the cadastral area of Zlatníky. The protected area includes the Kulháň Site of European Importance, SKUEV0134.
Rybník Kulháň makes a good stop or destination on a cycling trip. There are farm animals and play facilities for children, including slides, carousels and swings. If you want to combine a cycling trip with a stop, you can include a specific activity for children in your plans alongside the cycling.
Local History and Culture
A deed of donation from 1389 mentions a gold mine. A glassworks operated in the settlement of Kulháň from 1865; production ceased in 1890. Until the mid-20th century, some residents of Zlatníky still made wheel spokes for wheelwrights. Together, these historical references span the Middle Ages to a craft that was still practised in the 20th century.
The bell tower was rebuilt in 1984, modelled on the earlier structure. Inside the church are an altarpiece of the Virgin Mary, Queen, the Stations of the Cross and a large wooden cross. The cross was made by woodcarver Ján Chovan from Dekýš.
Construction of the church began in July and August 1991. In October 1993, a confirmation ceremony was held along with the solemn consecration of the church. Each year, around 22 August, residents commemorate the church’s feast day with traditional church consecration festivities.
Discover more destinations: Malé Hoste, Pečeňany, Brezolupy, Rybany, Omastiná, Slatina Nad Bebravou, Šišov, Pravotice.
For the broader travel overview: Bánovce Nad Bebravou.
