By Ivana Ščuroková, Communication assistant in Creative Industry Košice
The second largest city in Slovakia received the title of European Capital of Culture 2013, and besides the new investment projects, the title contributed to a strong creative sector which continues to develop the opportunities for tourism until today. This endless creative potential in Košice is reflected in another title – UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts. The vibrant life in the city is the result of international sports events, two universities, and a strong gastronomic tradition. The city has a rich history and remarkable architecture, cultural and social events and up to 13 UNESCO sites are less than two hours away. All this contributes to the emergence of creative innovations in the tourism sector.
It is natural that creatives work in the city they live in. They don’t create their work specifically for tourists, they just want to present it in the space that surrounds them. The contribution to the tourism sector is in fact, a side effect of their activities. Creative individuals find support here, in implementing their plans through local centres and organizations. Their work is a new opportunity for the tourists, who can take part in it and get to know the city through its people and experience something special, apart from the traditional attractions.
Creatives brought to Košice The Invisible Hotel, a special hotel that does not exist and in which each room tells a unique story connected to the city designed by local artists. In addition, the visitor will also find an exclusive selection of the best local handicraft products and free tickets to the city’s most iconic cultural and creative institutions.
Košice also has the largest Open Mural Gallery in Slovakia. The exhibited works are located on the facades of residential houses and they are an integral part of the public space of the city and free aesthetic experience for every visitor.
The Visit Košice Information Center is awaiting creative reconstruction. The selected architectural study builds on the title UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts. The design connects the metallurgical industry, which is a characteristic of Košice, with the IT sector.
In the competition for a domestic visitor in the next tourist season, the uniqueness and quality of local products and services will be decisive. The creativity used by the destinations will attract people and positively affect the local economy.