Košice: The Historical Heart of Eastern Slovakia

• HelloAhoj
  [ahoy]
• GoodbyeDovidenia
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• YesÁno
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• NoNie
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• Please/You're welcomeProsím
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• Thank youĎakujem
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• Excuse me/SorryPrepáčte
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• How are you?Ako sa máte?
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• Fine. And you?Dobre. A vy?
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• Do you speak English?Hovoríte po anglicky?
  [hoh-voh-ree-teh poh ahng-leets-kee]
• I don't understandNerozumiem
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• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseChcel by som vidieť jedálny lístok, prosím
  [kh-tsel bee sohm vee-dyet yeh-dahl-nee lees-tohk, pro-seem]
• I don't eat meatJa nejem mäso
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• Cheers!Na zdravie!
  [nah zdrah-vee-eh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseChcel by som zaplatiť, prosím
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• Help!Pomoc!
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• Go away!Choď preč!
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• Call the Police!Volaj políciu!
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• I'm lostStratil som sa
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• I'm illSom chorý
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• I'd like to buy...Chcel by som kúpiť...
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• I'm just lookingLen sa pozerám
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• How much is it?Koľko to stojí?
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• That's too expensiveTo je príliš drahé
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• Can you lower the price?Viete znížiť cenu?
  [vye-teh znee-zheet tseh-noo]

• What time is it?Koľko je hodín?
  [kohl-koh yeh hoh-deen]
• It's one o'clockJe jedna hodina
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• Half past (10)Pol dvanástej
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• MorningRáno
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• AfternoonPopoludní
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• Where's a/the...?Kde je...
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• What's the address?Aká je adresa?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?Môžete mi ukázať (na mape)?
  [moh-zheh-teh mee oo-kah-zat nah mah-peh]
• When's the next (bus)?Kedy je ďalší (autobus)?
  [keh-dee yeh dyahl-shee ow-toh-boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Lístok (do ...)
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Košice, known historically as Kassa, was first mentioned in 1230. It quickly grew into a significant medieval town due to its strategic location on the trade routes connecting Central Europe with the Balkans and the Black Sea. The town received its first town privileges in 1290, establishing it as an important urban center in the Kingdom of Hungary.

The 14th and 15th centuries marked a flourishing period for Košice, exemplified by the construction of the Gothic St. Elisabeth Cathedral. Completed in 1508, it remains the largest church in Slovakia and a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Košice also became the first town in Europe to be granted a coat of arms, awarded by King Louis I in 1369.

In the early 15th century, Košice was involved in the Hussite Wars, which brought turmoil but also fortification improvements. The Renaissance period saw further cultural and architectural advancements, with the influx of Italian and German artisans contributing to the city's cultural fabric.

The 16th and 17th centuries were tumultuous, as Košice faced repeated Turkish invasions and became a battleground for Habsburg and Ottoman forces. Despite these challenges, the city maintained its economic and cultural significance, eventually becoming a key administrative center under Habsburg rule.

The 18th and 19th centuries brought enlightenment ideals and industrialization to Košice. The city's infrastructure expanded with the construction of railways and factories, transforming it into an industrial hub. Education and the arts also flourished, with the establishment of various institutions and cultural societies.

Košice experienced significant upheaval during the World Wars. After World War I, it became part of the newly formed Czechoslovakia. The interwar period saw a mix of economic growth and political tension. During World War II, the city was occupied by Hungary, and its Jewish population faced persecution and deportation.

Following World War II, Košice was restored to Czechoslovakia and underwent significant reconstruction. The communist period brought industrial growth but also political repression. The city became a center for heavy industry, with the establishment of the East Slovak Ironworks in the 1950s.

The Velvet Revolution of 1989 marked the end of communist rule in Czechoslovakia, leading to democratic reforms and the eventual split into Slovakia and the Czech Republic in 1993. Košice has since embraced its historical heritage while modernizing its infrastructure and economy. The city was named the European Capital of Culture in 2013, highlighting its rich cultural and historical tapestry.

Košice is accessible via several modes of transportation. The city has its own international airport, Košice International Airport (KSC), which is approximately 6 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights are available from major European cities. Alternatively, you can reach Košice by train, as it is a significant rail hub with connections to Bratislava, Prague, Budapest, and other cities. Buses are another option, with routes connecting Košice to various Slovak and European destinations. For those driving, Košice is accessible via major highways.

Košice offers a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, via mobile apps, or directly from drivers (cash only). Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive, but it is advisable to use reputable companies or ride-hailing apps. Car rentals are also an option for those wishing to explore beyond the city. Košice is a pedestrian-friendly city, especially in the historic center, making walking a pleasant means of getting around.

The official currency in Slovakia is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout Košice, and currency exchange services are available at the airport, in banks, and in exchange offices in the city center.

Košice is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid dark and deserted areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Areas around the train and bus stations can sometimes attract pickpockets, so stay vigilant. It is always best to stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the general emergency number in Slovakia. There are several hospitals and clinics in Košice, with the University Hospital of L. Pasteur being the largest. Pharmacies are widely available for minor medical needs. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the weather. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, be quiet and respectful. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket upon entering buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Don’t forget to give up your seat to elderly passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'Dobrý deň' (Good day) goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like halušky and goulash. Don’t leave a tip on the table; instead, hand it directly to the waiter.

To experience Košice like a local, visit the Hlavná Ulica (Main Street) with its many cafes, restaurants, and shops. Attend a performance at the State Theatre or explore the local art scene at the East Slovak Gallery. Don’t miss the historic sites like St. Elisabeth Cathedral and the Košice Peace Marathon, the oldest marathon in Europe. For a unique local experience, consider visiting the markets, such as the Dominikánske námestie, where you can buy fresh produce and local products.