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Tower · Rožňava, Košice
Watchtower in Rožňava
Renaissance watchtower in the middle of Rožňava’s square, built in the 17th century as an observation post during the Ottoman threat. A staircase of 144 steps leads to the gallery, with views over the town and the Slaná valley.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Watchtower in Rožňava
The Watchtower (Strážna veža) rises in the middle of Rožňava’s main square, the Námestie baníkov (Miners’ Square). It was built in the 17th century in the Renaissance style on the site of an older Gothic tower, during years of Ottoman threat, and was completed in 1654. From it watchmen kept an eye on the valley and raised the alarm in case of attack or fire.
From that period a loophole remains, which can be seen from inside, a Turkish cannonball embedded in the south façade, and a Renaissance stone plaque with the town’s old coat of arms. The tower also had a clock that, according to local tradition, was among the most accurate in the Kingdom of Hungary.
The tower is about 38 m high. After 144 steps, the gallery reveals the square and the rooftops of the town centre, the cathedral, the calvary on the hill and the mountains surrounding Rožňava, which seems nestled in the valley.
The tower is open to the public and functions as a city viewpoint — a good first stop to understand the region’s geography before heading to the caves.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
20 to 30 minutes.
Best time
Early in the morning, before setting out for the caves, or at sunset, when the valley turns golden. Opening hours change with the season.
How to get there
In the centre of the main square, the Námestie baníkov, in the heart of town.
Tip
Look for the cannonball on the south façade before you climb. The staircase is narrow and steep: ascend without rushing.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Watchtower in Rožňava
How many steps are there in the Rožňava watchtower?
There are 144 steps to the gallery, at a total tower height of about 38 m.
Why was the Rožňava tower built?
To watch the valley during the Ottoman threat in the 17th century and to raise the alarm in case of attack or fire.
What view does the Rožňava watchtower offer?
The square and center of Rožňava, the cathedral, the calvary and the surrounding mountains around the valley.