The beginnings of the tinker’s craft in the northern areas of the former Trenčín county have not been fully explored yet. It is generally assumed the craft might have originated in the 18th century, but its massive boom began in the 19th century. The very first mention of the tinker’s craft dates back to 1828.
In the middle of the Strážov Hills lies the unique village of Čičmany, one of the most beautiful villages in Slovakia. The village is renowned for its painted wooden houses – like those depicted in fairytales. The embroidery of Čičmany, rich in ornamental motives, is equally renowned.
Into the Žilina Basin opens the renowned Rajecká valley, characterized not only by an attractive natural environment, but also by rich craft traditions. At the turn of the 19th and 20th century, wood carving began to develop and prosper in this area.
Rafting belongs amongst the oldest human activities in Slovakia. This is particularly true in mountainous northwestern Slovakia, where in the past forests dominated, thus providing more than sufficient wood. The river Váh played a very important role in the development of rafting in our region.
