Košice European Capital of Culture 2013

Allow me to introduce Košice, a city in Slovakia that will be named European Capital of Culture in 2013, alongside the French city of Marseille. Along with Bratislava, Košice is one of Slovakia’s most important cities and is already well worth a visit.

The city of Košice has a population of around a quarter of a million, making it the second-largest city in Slovakia. Rich in history and art, sacred and secular monuments, outstanding attractions, and an appealing calendar of events, Košice fulfils the dreams of travellers on city breaks in Slovakia, sparks curiosity among those on study tours, and is a popular destination for cultural trips. Košice’s location in the heart of eastern Slovakia, overlooking Hungary’s Tokaj wine region, is considered unique. The selection of hotels and holiday apartments in Košice is already extensive and is set to grow further by 2013. According to a 2008 press article, the jury had a difficult time choosing a city in Slovakia to become European Capital of Culture. In the end, perhaps it was the charm and stylish appeal of this city that won them over; beyond its diverse cultural heritage, Košice also projects a cosmopolitan image.

As in many other cities, the heart of Košice lies in its historic old town, which is among other things a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the summer months, Košice’s old town also becomes the cultural hub. Among other events, performances by the State Philharmonic Orchestra are much loved and make a lasting impression. Villa Cassa is one of Košice’s oldest attractions, while its coat of arms is the oldest in Europe. Košice is generally regarded as one of the most attractive urban destinations in Slovakia.