Čičmany
A mountain village whose log houses are painted with white geometric patterns. It was Slovakia's first folk architecture reserve and is often called the "world's first folk architecture reserve."
Čičmany lies in a valley about 45 km southwest of Žilina. The dark log houses are decorated with white limewash patterns of crosses, diamonds and waves. The patterns were first applied to protect the timber, and they later became a distinctive decorative tradition. The village was designated a folk architecture reserve in 1977. Several houses on the main street, including the Radvanský House, are open as a folk museum (admission about 3 euros). They display local embroidered costumes and household items. The village is small, and you can see it in 1–2 hours. You can combine it with the Rajecké Teplice spa or Slovenský Betlehem.
Opening hours
Village open all day; museum approx. 09:00–16:00
Nearby sights
- Slovak Bethlehem
- Súľov Rocks
- Rajecké Teplice
- Lietava Castle
- New Synagogue, Žilina
- Mariánske námestie, Žilina
- Holy Trinity Cathedral & Burian Tower
- Budatín Castle