We've Arrived in Slovakia

Our Mission President met us at Budapest airport and drove us to Slovakia stopping for a quick photo.

St Nicholas Church in
Prešov Center

We arrived in Prešov, Slovakia about a week ago and are already loving it here. It is a city celebrating it's 770th anniversary year which means it is a very old city and most the buildings date back to the 16th and 17th century. Over the years, fires have destroyed some buildings and most have been restored and upgraded. Nearly all the structures are built from small red bricks and concrete.

Along the sidewalks

Most buildings are joined together like a long row of townhouses.

Coat of Arms
City of  Prešov

The Prešov's coat of arms is positioned all around the city on plaques, buildings, statues, and sidewalks. Top part of shield, three red "roses" and lower part divided into red and silver bands three times.

Basement Restaurant

Many buildings have deep basements and some were found to contain large restaurants. The wine museum winds through underground cellars and old prison cells. The locals say it is the best museum in town. The underground is a portion of the city where we can find hidden gems.

Hlvaná Street
Southward view

Hlvaná Street is "Main"street for Prešov City. The street splits past the green bell tower (photo above) of the Church of St. Nicholas. It is city center and visible throughout the city. Cafes, flower pots, statues, park benches, outdoor pubs, performing stages, and cobblestone sidewalks add charm to this quaint town. 

North side of St Nicholas church
bell tower.

To the north is the Evangelical church cathedral. Another prominent sight in city center.

The main street is lined with three story buildings painted in pastel colors. Many are residential town homes with commercial businesses on the ground floor. To the south is the Church of John the Baptist. Their church bells can be hear all around city center. From what I can tell the bells start around 7:30 am.

Interior of
St Nicholas Church

Wedding day.
Bride and father

These churches are a focal point for weddings. On Saturday, we noticed two of the churches were busy with weddings. At one of the churches,the bride and groom had a large following of guys and gals dresses up in Slovakian outfits. We believe Slovaks are keeping this tradition by wearing clothing worn decades ago.

The weather has been delightful and comfortable. We have not needed air conditioning yet!

We look forward to many more wonderful weeks in Prešov. Slovakia sure is a beautiful country steeped in history and culture. Not to mention the beautiful sights. I feel honored to have this awesome experience. What a blessing!