DISCOVER THE SLAVIC CULTURE IN ČIČMANY
What to know before you go?
Čičmany is in northwestern Slovakia, surrounded by the spectacular Strážov Mountains. The village is about a two-hour drive from Bratislava. It is possible to reach Čičmany by public transport. The easiest way is to take a bus from Žilina to Rajec, and from there, another bus to Čičmany. However, there are very few buses passing through Čičmany. Or, you can rent a car from Bratislava.
A PAINTED VILLAGE
The tiny village of ČIČMANY, today with a population of 204, looks just like it did hundreds of years ago, untouched by time. The village has preserved the typical black timber houses, each one decorated with traditional patterns in white lime paint. Literally, street after street is characterised by folk art.
Although the records of the village at Čičmany date back to the 13th century, the decorations began only 200 years ago, when white lime would be used to help preserve damaged wood.
When you walk around the village, you can also enter some houses, which are used as a museum and show how daily life used to be back in the day in Slovakia.
don't miss Fašiangy Carnival
The most popular occasion in Čičmany village is the Fašiangy Carnival - a Catholic Holiday which is celebrated all around Slovakia.
In the village, the carnival offers shows with folk music, and traditional dances in beautiful Slovak clothes. Not to mention tasty Slovak food and homemade spirits. It's a great chance to feel the real spirit of Slovakia, enjoy its culture, learn traditions, and communicate with locals.
The celebration usually takes place in February around Ash Wednesday and it lasts a few days.
where to stay?
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€117 /px/night
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If you want to stay in a traditional Slovakian house right in the centre if Čičmany, this is the place for you!
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€68 /px/night
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A spacious mountain chalet 12 km/15 minutes car drive from the Čičmany village.
LEARN SOME SLOVAK VOCABULARY
Even though most of the younger generations in Slovakia speak good English, it is always nice to know a few basic words when travelling to a country, whilst diving deeper into the culture and connecting with some locals.
Here, are some sentences that will help you for your next trip to Slovakia:
how to greet?
Ahoj - Hello
Dobrý deň - Hello (more formal)
dobrý večer - good evening
ĎAKUJEM - THANK YOU
prosím - PLEASE or You’re welcome
HOW TO ORDER DRINKS & FOOD?
môžem..? - can i have..?
jedno pivo - one beer
červené víno - red wine
biele víno - white wine
na zdravie - cheers
účet, prosím – The bill, please
veľmi dobre - very good
