The town of Levoča. (source: levoca.sk)
The summer tourist season is in full swing, and the historical eastern-Slovak town of Levoča is no exception. An important tourist destination, Levoča is presenting an array of updates aimed at improving the experience of visitors and making its cultural heritage more accessible to the public, the town's official website informed.
Among the key changes are daily guided tours, a new outdoor tourist information point near the Basilica of St. James, and an art exhibition by renowned Slovak photographer Peter Župník inside the tower of the basilica.
Guided tours every day throughout the season
Unlike previous years, when city tours were available only three times a week, Levoča now offers guided walking tours daily from 10:00 to 18:00. The expanded schedule, initiated by the Municipal Cultural Centre, comes in response to growing demand from rising tourist numbers observed in recent seasons.
“Our team of guides will be ready to adapt to the number of visitors and their interests throughout the day,” said Zuzana Kamenická, director of the cultural centre. All the guides are trained to provide services in Slovak and either English or German, ensuring accessibility for foreign visitors.
New information point near the basilica
The newly established “Infopoint” between the Basilica of St. James and the town hall brings city information services closer to the public. Staffed by uniformed guides, the kiosk serves as a hub for both tour bookings and general tourist assistance.
Visitors can receive help with navigating the town, recommendations on dining and museums, or simply learn more about Levoča’s history and architecture. The original information centre at the local cinema remains in operation and offers an even wider range of services.
Art meets panoramas
Visitors climbing the basilica tower can now enjoy more than just panoramic views. The spiral staircase has been transformed into an exhibition space featuring Podoby milosti (Faces of Grace), a photography collection by Peter Župník showcasing the work of Master Paul of Levoča, the mediaeval craftsman credited with creating the church's unique wooden altar.
The artistic installation offers a new perspective on the town’s iconic mediaeval woodcarvings. The exhibition also temporarily replaces the City Gallery, which is currently undergoing reconstruction.
The story of Cecilia Gonzaga continues
Though the long-anticipated return of the Renaissance-era bust of Cecilia Gonzaga to Levoča – which was recently removed from the town in controversial circumstances – has been postponed, locals are keeping the story alive. A travelling exhibition entitled The Face That Belongs to Levoča will feature large-scale photographs of the bust, captured by Župník in 2021. Starting in Levoča and Spišský Hrhov, the display will tour Slovakia, encouraging dialogue about the importance of cultural heritage.
A special panel within the exhibition will allow other towns to present their own treasured artefacts, creating a national conversation about preservation. Levoča also plans to incorporate the story of Cecilia Gonzaga into the popular theatrical event Tajomná Levoča (Mysterious Levoča) later this season.
Even in the absence of the original sculpture, the city continues to spotlight its significance – a symbol of cultural memory and a beacon for future artistic engagement.
