Rákoš

General information about Rákoš:
Inhabitants of the village are mainly occupied with farming, agricultural activities and work for nearby industrial factories in Jelšava, Lubeník, Revúca and Sirka.
The total cadastral area of the village: 1 303 hectares including the mine known as "Rákošská Baňa" which is situated only 2 km from the village.

The village of Rákoš is situated in the southeastern part on the mountain complex known as Slovenské Rudohorie and on the edge of hill called Železník. A small stream known as Rakyš is located within walking distance of the village.
Rákoš is surrounded by dense woods containing many oak and beech trees.
Historical information about Rákoš:

The earliest written reference of the village dates from 1318 when it was known as "Kowy" (Kameňany), later it became known as Rákoš.
The village was depraved during 15th century.
The village of Rákoš belonged to several owners, starting with the family of Bebek and Mr. Wesselény in 17th century. The family of Csáky owned Rákoš in 18th century and the family of Koháry and Coburg in 19th century.
The village inhabitants were traditionally occupied with mining. The local mine (Rákošská baňa) was built in the late 19th century. The mining industry was focused on iron, copper and mercury. In the early 20th century, several mining workshops were built in the village. The mining activities were stopped in 1922 but the mines reopened between 1952 - 1962. Several other new mines were opened in 1968 and 1970.

The villagers were playing a crucial role in the Slovak National Uprising (SNP - Slovenské národné povstanie) and were awarded with the medal for their efforts in the uprising.
The local farming co - operative association was established in 1950 and given to the state in early 1960s.
The ruins of the castle, which dates to the second half of 13th century, were found near this village.

There are two churches in the village: (1) the Roman Catholic Church was built in the roman - gothic style and dates to the late 13th century. It was repaired in the late 16th century as well as mid 18th century. The interior of this church attract the attention of visitors - it contains gothic wall paintings which date from 14th and 15th century. Some of these paintings are also located on the southern external wall of the church. There are also examples of baroque style in this church, e.g. painted wooden ceiling dating from late mid17th century. (2) the Evangelical Church with rococo - classicist interior which was built in 1819.