Martin (Slovakia)

Martin is a city in the northern Central Slovakia. It is the center of the Turiec region.

It is on the Turiec river, between the Little Fatra and Great Fatra mountains. The population numbers approximately 60,000, which makes it the eighth largest city in Slovakia.



Understand
The city was the foremost Slovak cultural center in the 19th century. Several cultural institutions (including Slovak Matica and Slovak National Museum) were founded there. Most political activities leading to the Slovak national emancipation in the 19th and early 20th centuries were organized in or from the city.

After Bratislava became the capital of Slovakia at the beginning of 20th century, Martin lost some of its importance, but the cultural institutions founded in the city are still maintained here.

Do
Skiing and hiking in the surrounding mountains (Little Fatra and Great Fatra) is a very good option.


 * Martinské hole ski area is nearest to the city, however access is only possible by car with snow chains. There used to be a cablecar and there are plans to rebuild it.

Go next
Cities Žilina, Ružomberok, Banská Bystrica are easily accessible by bus/train.