Švajčiarsky dom, ubytovňa Villa

Welcome to the High Tatras in the Prešov region. You're standing in front of a building called Swiss House. The house served as a hostel and villa.

The exact chronology of the construction is not documented and the name of the architect is unknown, but the name Swiss House provides clues. In the period of the bloom of Tatras, when mountains were attractive to tourists and artists from Europe, Swiss style was popular. This architectural approach was copied by alpine buildings adapted to the mountain environment. Buildings in this style provided refuge from unpredictable weather and would fit into the landscape as a natural part of the mountains. Swiss house was built to provide accommodation for people who came to the Tatras for health, inspiration or nature.

Now pay attention to architecture. Look at the facade and see how the building enters the surrounding space. When you look at the facade, notice how the architecture of the villa works with space. Although it is not known who drew the plans, the author wanted to create a place that acts cozy and representative. Follow the roof lines and layout of the building. Note the details typical of mountain villas that protected the interior of the house from snow and violent winds characteristic of the High Tatras. The appearance of the house evokes a sense of security, which was crucial for the hostels at the time, because visitors spent long weeks or months in them during the seasons.

Looking at the walls of the house, imagine the people who stayed in it. Although historical records do not indicate specific personalities associated with this house, the types of people who came here can be imagined. Elegant gentlemen in hats and ladies in long dresses walked around in the morning. Perhaps there were doctors who recommended the Tatra air to treat lung disease or poets. The house was a center of social life, where people from different countries and social classes joined together during evening conversations.

Unlike many documented buildings, this house remains anonymous. It is not known in which year the foundation stone was laid or who suggested the disposition. The value of Swiss house is that it survived for decades and resembles the era of romanticism and the first mass travel in the Tatras.

Look again at the building as a whole and see the contrast between the stability of the villa and the dynamics of the surrounding nature. The Swiss house reminds us that man can settle in the mountains to complement them. It is a symbol of hospitality and humility towards the majesty of the High Tatras.

Thank you for the parade. You can now continue to explore this area. I wish you a successful discovery of other places and new experiences. I wish you a pleasant journey and nice views. Goodbye and good trip.