Happy TravellerWelcome to Lučenec, a historic town located in the Banská Bystrica Region of south-central Slovakia. With a rich and diverse history, Lučenec has much to offer visitors, from its stunning architecture to its vibrant cultural scene. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this town such a special destination.
Lučenec has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the Stone Ages. Slavs and Hungarians settled in the area in the 6th and 7th centuries, and the town was first mentioned in 1128 when a chapel was built in honor of the Virgin Mary. Lučenec was conquered by the Hussites in 1442 and was under Ottoman control until the Austrians captured it in 1593. The town underwent modernization in the 19th and 20th centuries, with new industries and infrastructure being built.
One of the town’s most notable landmarks is its large synagogue, built in 1924, which served a large Jewish population before World War II. The synagogue underwent renovations in 2016 and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the town’s Jewish history. Lučenec is also home to the Novohrad Museum and Gallery, which houses a collection of over 30,000 artifacts.
Lučenec is the economic center of the Novohrad region, which includes districts Poltár and Veľký Krtíš. The town has a humid continental climate with four alternating seasons, making it a great destination year-round. Nearby water reservoirs such as Ľadovo, Mýtna, Málinec, and Ružiná offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Lučenec is a multicultural town, with a population of around 25,902 inhabitants. The majority of residents are Slovaks, but there is also a significant Hungarian minority. Lučenec is divided into several boroughs, including Lučenec, Opatová, Malá Ves, and Rúbanisko.
Lučenec has been home to many notable people throughout history, including Hungarian poet and liberal revolutionary Sándor Petőfi, Slovak novelist and playwright Božena Slančíková (pen name Timrava), and American writer and musician Ralph Henry Brewster.
Lučenec is twinned with several cities around the world, including Békéscsaba in Hungary and Kęty in Poland. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor recreation, Lučenec has something for everyone. Come and discover this hidden gem for yourself!
