Slovakia is a new country, split from its twin, the Czech Republic, in 1993. Yet, it is also a country with a cultural heritage spanning back centuries. Its economy, based on exports of vehicles, iron and steel and machinery, is growing rapidly. Although it may soon be using euros, its currency is currently the koruna. It consists of 100 halier. Its symbol is SKK.
History
The first coinage in Slovakia dates from the 3rd and 2nd centuries B.C. The Danubian tradition of Celtic imitations of coins in the style of Philip of Macedon, were in circulation in this region.Soem of the coins in the area were quite distinct. In particular, the “Biatec” or “Bratislav” series stands out. These coins were large silver currency featuring Latin lettering.
By the middle of the 1st century, the country had coins copying those of the Roman Republic. This lasted for a couple of centuries. Actual Roman coinage did appear, probably the result of protection money paid to the local tribes.
By the Middle Ages, Slovakia and the now Czech Republic, underwent the tribulations of various invading forces. Hungary, the Mongol, the Ottoman Turks and Austria all had an impact upon the currency issues. As yet, the country did not have its own unique monetary system. The money in circulation owed much to the ruling cultures. The situation did not change until following the conflagration of 1914-1918.
After WWI, Slovakia became part of the new Republic of Czechoslovakia. The monetary unit set up used a system of the haleru and koruna. The coins included 1, 5, 20 and 50-hallers and 1, 2 and 5-korun. This remained constant until the next major war. Germany split the countries into two separate units. Slovakia became a puppet state. The resulting national uprising in 1944 was lethal.
After WWII, and, under the communists, the pre-war currency was re-instated. The preference for these coins remained under the communists and after the Velvet Revolution from Russia and the Velvet Divorce from Czechoslovakia. Today, both the Czech Republic and Slovakia have koruny. In the system, coins consist of 50 halier; 1, 2, 5 and 10 koruna while banknotes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 and 5,000 koruna.
Obtaining Slovakian Koruna
You can exchange your own currency in most banks and post offices. You can locate ATMs in the major cities and even small towns. They are also slowly making their way to most villages.
Protecting Your Currency
Crime in Slovakia is frequently of the petty type. In shopping centers, on crowded streets and on public transportation, mugging, pick-pocketing and purse snatching occur. Major tourist attractions, including Bratislava's Old Town area are also places where you need to watch your money. Follow the usual precautions but be extra vigilant if you take a train, especially overnight.
Using Your Slovakian Koruna
It is fun to use the local currency. In some places, it is far better to use it then travelers’ checks or credit cards. You can use it to pick up Slovakian chocolate bars. You can also use it when you shop for gifts and souvenirs. Opt for traditional handicrafts such as cornhusk dolls or wooden toys. You can purchase fine lace or delicate crystal vases or bowls. Why not buy a ceramic Slovakian milk jug or the fujara, a pipe-like traditional musical instrument.
Travel Tips and Warnings
- You are not allowed to take pictures of military installations and personnel.
- Visit the Primate’s Palace in Bratislava and go to the Danubiana-Meulensteen Art Museum set in a small sculpture park.
- Make your way up the cliff to see the ruins of Devin Castle and wander through the halls of Bratislav Castle.
- If it’s the right season, i in the High Tatras.
- Hike in the Tatras.
- Go to Košice to see the Cathedral of St. Elizabeth and the East Slovak museum
Overview
Slovakia
is learning to thrive as a separate entity. A landlocked country, it
has boundaries with the Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary, Poland and
Ukraine. Although it has its own coinage, in the future, it may opt for
the euro.
For factual information and data, go to www.slovensko.com. For travel information, see www.slovakia.travel.
Currency Summary
Current currency: koruny
100 halier equal 1 koruna
Coins: 50 halier; 1, 2, 5 and 10 koruna
Banknotes: 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 and 5,000 koruna