(source: SITA)
In previous years, ice structures in the Tatra Ice Cathedral were inspired by architecture from different parts of the world. This year's edition is dedicated to a visit by Queen Elizabeth II.
The cathedral, which is now open to visitors, at the Hrebienok resort has an ice sculpture inspired by Westminster Abbey.
Detailed travel guide to the Tatras introduces you to the whole region around the Tatra mountains, including attractions on the Polish side.
"It was on October 24, 2008, when the British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, visited Hrebienok. In 2023, exactly 15 years have passed since then, and precisely because of this, as a tribute to her Majesty and at the same time as a tribute to her successor, King Charles III, the Tatra Ice Cathedral has arisen again, inspired by Westminster Abbey. It is a temple that is not only the place of coronations, but also the last farewell of British monarchs," said manager of the Tatra Ice Dome Lukáš Brodanský, as quoted by the TASR newswire.
"Queen Elizabeth II had a special relationship with the High Tatras and Westminster Abbey has a special relationship with the royal family. I never thought I would have the opportunity to see Westminster Abbey made of ice. We will definitely see a lot of British tourists here and I also believe that it will inspire many Slovaks to visit Great Britain," said Nigel Baker, Ambassador of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, told TASR.
The ambassador unveiled a commemorative plaque commemorating Elizabeth II's visit to the High Tatras. After the closure of the ice cathedral it will find its new home at Hrebienok.
As is tradition, the opening of the dome also means the symbolic opening of the winter season in the High Tatras.
"Let's hope that the winter season will be as good as possible and that visitors will find everything they are looking for in the Tatras. We believe that the British landmark will also bring more guests from Great Britain in connection with the strengthened air lines between the Tatras and London," said Lucia Blašková, executive director of the Regional Tourism Organisation for the High Tatras.
The main builder of the dome was Adam Bakoš, while ice sculptors from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany also contributed working under him.
Before entering the cathedral, visitors will find a photo exhibition commemorating Elizabeth II's visit.
The dome also includes an exhibition of miniature replicas of coronation objects dedicated directly to Westminster Abbey. The dome also includes several works by glassblower and designer Achilleas Sdoukos.
In total, 225 tons of ice in 1,800 blocks were used in the production of the cathedral. The tallest point of the building is 11.5 metres and the diameter of the dome in which the building is located is 25 metres. It will be open daily until April 14, 2024 and will also be the venue for 12 music concerts and performances.
Spectacular Slovakia travel guides
A helping hand in the heart of Europe thanks to the Slovakia travel guide with more than 1,000 photos and hundreds of tourist spots.
A detailed travel guide to the Tatras introduces you to the whole region around the Tatra mountains, including attractions on the Polish side.
Lost in Bratislava? It's impossible with our City Guide!
Selected travel articles, podcasts, travellers' needs as well as other guides dedicated to Nitra, Trenčín Region, Trnava Region and Žilina Region.
