Smolenice celebrates 770th anniversary of first written mention

The municipality of Smolenice is celebrating the 770th anniversary of its first written mention. The historical milestone dates back to 1256, when the village was referred to as ‘Solmus’ in a document by King Bela IV of Hungary.

To mark the occasion, a traditional fair and celebratory program will take place on Saturday, August 22. The event features a ceremonial presentation of commemorative plaques to individuals who have contributed to the town's development. Musical performances include the Military Band of the Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic, as well as groups such as Polemic and Adam Ďurica.

Mayor Svetlana Petrovičová noted that the anniversary serves as an opportunity to reflect on the town's rich history—which includes its 14th-century Gothic castle and its role on the ‘Czech Way’ trade route—while focusing on future infrastructure and tourism development. Smolenice is currently a known tourist destination due to its castle, Driny Cave, and natural surroundings in the Little Carpathians.