Happy TravellerWelcome to Nové Zámky, a historic town located in the Nitra Region of southwestern Slovakia. With a rich history dating back to the 10th century, Nové Zámky is a fascinating destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike. Situated on the Danubian Lowland and the Nitra River, the town offers stunning natural scenery and a continental climate. Nové Zámky is also a road and railway hub of southern Slovakia, making it easily accessible for visitors.
History:
Nové Zámky has a distinguished history, having been part of the Kingdom of Hungary from the second half of the 10th century until 1918. The town was built as a fortress to defend against the Ottoman Empire in the years 1573-81. The huge new fortress was one of the most modern in Europe when it was built, a prime example of the star fortress which was considered to be adapted to the advance in artillery in the preceding centuries. The Ottomans failed to conquer it six times, but in 1663 they managed to do so. It was made the center of an Ottoman eyalet in present-day southern Slovakia. In 1685 it was conquered by the imperial troops of Charles V, Duke of Lorraine. After the break-up of Austria-Hungary in 1918/1920, the town became part of the newly created Czechoslovakia. As a result of the First Vienna Award, it was occupied by Hungary between 1938 and 1945. During World War II (1944), the town was heavily damaged by bombings of the Allies. Only small parts of the fortress are still standing today.
Culture:
Nové Zámky offers a variety of cultural attractions for visitors. The Ernest Zmeták Art Gallery on Björnsonova Street has two permanent exhibitions. The first one, called European Art of the 16th to 20th Century, is based on the donation of a local painter and collector, Ernest Zmeták. The second one presents the works of art of a local Hungarian avant-garde artist and writer, Lajos Kassák. The orthodox synagogue is located at Česká bašta and dates from 1880. After reconstruction in 1992 it was registered as a historic landmark of Slovakia. The Franciscan church and monastery was built in the early baroque style in the middle of the 17th century.
Demographics:
The 2001 census recorded a population of 42,262 people, with 69.67% of them being Slovaks, 27.52% Hungarians and others. The most widespread religion was Roman Catholicism (71.72%), followed by a group without denomination (17.75%) and Evangelics (Lutherans) (3.36%).
Notable people:
Nové Zámky has been home to many notable people throughout history, including photographer Lucien Aigner, fashion designer Etienne Aigner, linguist Anton Bernolák, social activist Ayrton Cable, graphic artist Ferenc Helbing, Old West figure Mary Katherine Horony, writer and critic Lajos Kassák, linguist and author Ernest Klein, rabbi Samuel Klein, tennis player Henrieta Nagyová, ice hockey player Peter Ölvecký, sports scientist and athletics coach Ladislav Pataki, Jesuit Abbot and historian György Pray, Israeli pioneer of preschool education Miriam Roth, and tennis player Martina Suchá.
Twin towns – sister cities:
Nové Zámky is twinned with the cities of Békéscsaba in Hungary, Kroměříž in the Czech Republic, and Sieradz in Poland.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Nové Zámky has something to offer every traveler. Come explore this hidden gem in southwestern Slovakia and discover all that it has to offer!
