One of the earliest references of Špania Dolina dates from about 4000 - 4500 years in
the past. There are a few historical names of the village, which were used in the past
these included Montane and Herrengudndu.
The village is situated in the western part of the Low Tatra Mountains. High quality
mineral water springs are located in the area of Špania Dolina. The water is very
suitable for the very young.
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Špania Dolina
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There are many footpaths and cycle paths around the village. Particularly nice are the
areas of Šachtičky and Donovaly, which are located around the village and offer good
facilities for summer walks and winter skiing. Many plants, trees and bushes grow
in and around village of particular botanical interest; these include agrimony,
cranberries, raspberries, blackberries, mushrooms and mistletoe. The animal kingdom is
represented by many species of birds such as eagles, sparrow hawks and hawks and
there are also brown bears, wild wolves and lynxes.
Points of interest, remarkables and rarities
Špania Dolina and Mining
The village has got a long history of mining. Gold, silver and copper - these were the
main articles of commerce in the history of the village. Heavy black copper contained
about 60 per cent of silver and therefore it was a very popular commodity for the
Venetian merchants who extracted silver from the copper ore and used it to produce
famous Venetian mirrors.
When Columbus anchored in Cuba, he had numerous copper rods and bars on board his ship
which all originated from Špania Dolina region. The wreckage of Columbus's ship was
found in 1998 and bits of the local copper were found on board. Copper was even used
for reconstruction of one of the churches located in Munich in 1992.
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Špania Dolina and Lace Making
Local women (and a few men) are still keeping the local tradition of lace making alive.
Beautiful and valuable laces of different shapes are made in the village and are well
renowned worldwide. They can be made to measure for those who would prefer a particular
size, shape or design.
Translation: Bendíková