Gelnica opens Gloriette lookout with glass floor

The town of Gelnica has officially opened the Gloriette lookout, a modern architectural landmark situated on a rocky cliff within the city's forest park. Designed by architect Igor Cziel of the Ligrus studio, the structure replaces a historical wooden gazebo that was destroyed by a severe windstorm last year.

The lookout features a 45-square-meter steel construction that extends 11 meters into open space, reaching a height of nearly 50 meters above the tree canopy. To enhance the visitor experience, the floor and railings are constructed from laminated safety glass, allowing a direct view of the steep cliff below.

The project was supported by the Košice Self-Governing Region through the Terra Incognita program. The structure is designed to be energy-autonomous via photovoltaic panels and includes linear architectural lighting for nighttime visibility. The site aims to revitalize the area's historical role as a recreational destination, connecting to existing hiking trails dating back to the late 19th century.