Markušovský skalný hríb

During a train ride between Spišská Nová Ves and Košice, we may briefly catch a glimpse of a forested slope above the Hornád River, which hides what is said to be the most beautiful rock formation in Slovakia. It is the most famous mushroom-shaped rock formation and reportedly also the largest of its kind in Europe.

The protected site lies 5 km from the village of Markušovce in the Spišská Nová Ves district. The “rock mushroom” can be easily reached via hiking trails from the villages of Markušovce and Matejovce nad Hornádom, connected by a yellow tourist trail.

The Markušovské Walls national natural monument includes the rock mushroom above the Hornád riverbed. It consists of an approximately 8-meter-high “stem” and a cap with a diameter of about 3 meters. At first sight, it attracts attention with its perfectly symmetrical shape. The material forming the stem—conglomerate in this case—is less resistant to weathering than the sandstone forming the cap, and even grassy vegetation grows on its top.

Its formation can be explained by the action of water, wind, and frost. It is an example of selective weathering of rocks of different resistance from the Paleogene period. Over long periods, water, frost, and wind gradually break down the rock. The mechanically weaker conglomerate weathers faster than the more resistant overlying sandstone, which is why a narrow stem-like shape has formed.

After visiting this unique natural formation, continue along the edge of the forest, still following the Hornád River. You will reach the village of Markušovce, known for its cultural monuments. We especially recommend visiting the manor house with its furniture exhibition or the Dardanely summer palace, which houses a collection of musical instruments.