New lookout tower at Grapa Hill, northern Slovakia (source: Miro Sabo)
For years, the people of Hladovka dreamt of a lookout tower crowning the hills above their village. Now, after 15 years of planning and a €90,000 project, that vision stands tall.
Perched atop Grapa Hill, the new structure rises 15 metres, its circular form spanning five metres across, reports My Orava. Built from concrete and clad in natural stone, it blends into the landscape while offering a striking contrast to the rolling green hills below. A spiralling masonry staircase winds upwards to a sheltered platform, where visitors can take in sweeping views of the Orava region.
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“We had to work closely with environmentalists and other institutions to get the design right,” said Mayor Marián Brnušák. “Metal was out of the question, and wood wouldn’t last. Concrete was the best choice.”
Construction took just three months, though not without challenges. Sourcing the semi-circular formwork proved difficult, but the project pushed ahead. “It wasn’t easy, but we got there,” Brnušák said.
Getting to the tower is an adventure in itself. Visitors can approach via a road through the Vitanovské cooperative or follow one of several dirt tracks leading up from Hladovka.
The project is far from complete. Plans are underway for a new 3.5-metre-wide road, complete with a bridge over the Jelešňa River. Benches and barbecue areas will be added, and inside the tower, a statue of the Holy Family will take its place.
The site already holds a spiritual presence–each year, pilgrims gather for indulgence masses beneath the 10.5-metre cross that has long stood on Grapa Hill. Now, they will have a new place for reflection, and visitors yet another reason to climb.
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