The town of Zvolen is the centre of Pohronie in Central Slovakia.It has back a rich history dating back more than 760 years. Nowadays it is an important railway junction and crossroads of the road transport. The castle is a medieval castle located on a hill near the center of the town. It was built by Louis I of Hungary, which built like a gothic hunting castle. In his form was finished in 1382, when it was a witness of an engagement of his daughter Mary and Sigismund. About 1500 was built up external fortification with 4 round bastions and entrance gate. About 1590 was built up artillery bastion also. The castle is a dominant of the city and it is located ont he elevated cliff, over the junction of rivers Slatina and Hron. It is preserved in its original, intact shape and it is registered as a National Cultural Monument. The premises of the Zvolen csatle are used by the Slocak National Gallery, which exhibits precious collection of Gothic and Modern Arts. Every year, in the castle grounds the international theatre and opera festival takes place. The heart of the town is the SNP Square and the pedestrian area, which is lined by old burger houses and the church of St. Elisabeth.
More information: www.zvolen.sk; www.travelguide.sk; www.slovakheritage.org
