Urban Tower – Košice
The Urban Tower in Košice is an important historical monument and one of the best-known landmarks on Main Street. It is the former bell tower of St Elizabeth’s Cathedral, built as part of the Gothic cathedral while it was under construction and later altered several times, with an important Renaissance reconstruction taking place in the 17th century.
The tower is dedicated to St Urban, the patron saint of winegrowers, reflecting the historical importance of viticulture to the city of Košice. In the past, it housed the large Urban Bell, one of the city’s most significant bells.
Throughout its history, the tower has undergone numerous events and alterations. In the 20th century, it was damaged by a fire that destroyed both the roof and the original bell. It was subsequently restored and renovated into the form we see today.
Today, the Urban Tower forms part of the historic centre of Košice and, together with St Elizabeth’s Cathedral and St Michael’s Chapel, is designated a national cultural monument. Historical tombstones are also embedded in its walls, bearing witness to the city’s rich past.
The Urban Tower is therefore an important part of Košice’s cultural heritage and a popular destination for visitors wishing to discover the history of the city and its architectural development.
