#paulineheritage

In the Aggtelek and Slovak Karst, the settlements of Martonyi and Gombasek possess such Pauline architectural monuments that can be preserved for the benefit of the public through archaeological excavation and by the reconstruction of these unique monuments, which have already begun but are far from being completed.
The building of the Pauline monastery of Martonyi and its surroundings have been under the management of the ANP Directorate since 1997. It has started its rescue and reconstruction decades ago. The Sine Metu has started the excavation, restoration and reconstruction of the ruins of the Palatine monastery in Gombasek in 2018. The two Pauline monasteries, built about 50 kilometres apart, have many similarities and overlaps, not only because they were built in a similar natural environment, but also because their histories are deeply interconnected. Both monasteries are located in the beautiful national parks of the Aggtelek and Slovak Karst, and represent an outstanding value for the local community.
The aim of the project is to preserve the rich and unique cultural and architectural heritage of the border region, to ensure its use for tourism purposes and at the same time to enhance local identity and strengthen the community.
The content of the project planned to be implemented in partnership includes the further archaeological excavation of the two historic monuments and their surroundings, the continuation and coordinated presentation of the reconstruction work that has been started. The planned development will be based on previous archaeological excavations, planning and reconstruction work carried out by the partners, and therefore properly prepared.
Aggtelek and Slovak Karst region is a single geographical and cultural-historical unit. Increasing visitor numbers on both sides of the border is a challenge, as is preserving the built cultural heritage. Because of the proximity of the border, the development of new tourist destinations is beneficial, as it increases the time spent in the area and possibly the number of overnight stays, thus generating more revenue. As a result, the monasteries will be presented on a higher level, with new elements, and will present the Pauline Order, preserving the centuries-old spiritual heritage of the religious order. The project will ensure the long-term preservation of the monuments that are part of our European cultural heritage, and contribute to the increase of the tourism potential of the region.