Terchová, Slovakia. If you feel like the name sounds familiar, you‘re not wrong. The mountain slopes and forests here are renowned because of the famous native, Juraj Jánošík. However, this seemingly modest village, nestled beneath the peaks of the Malá Fatra mountains near Žilina, thrives on much more than his legacy. Visitors will discover breathtaking natural landscapes, rich folklore traditions, and even football festivities. We spoke with the local mayor, Jozef Dávidík, to learn more about Terchová.
When people hear „Terchová,“ many immediately think of Jánošík. Does this connection still serve as the main draw for tourists?
Of course, Jánošík is a huge attraction for tourists. There is interest year-round, but it peaks every summer during the large international folklore festival, Jánošík Days, in Terchová. It‘s one of the most popular cultural events in Slovakia, drawing an average of 50,000 visitors to the five-day festival. The upcoming 63rd edition of the event will take place from July 30 to August 3, 2025. We should also mention Jánošík‘s House in the legendary outlaw captain and folk hero‘s birthplace, another major tourist magnet in Terchová.
The village is renowned for its traditions and folklore, and the local music is even listed on UNESCO‘s heritage list. Is there still interest in traditions and folklore among the younger generation?
Yes, Terchová music has been listed on UNESCO‘s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2013. Young people from Terchová and the surrounding areas have long shown great interest in the local folklore and folk traditions. This is evidenced not only by the two elementary art schools operating in the village but also by the numerous children‘s and youth music groups from Terchová – boys‘, girls‘, and mixed ensembles. Experts claim that, in terms of population density, Terchová likely has the highest concentration of musicians in the world.
Statue of Jánošík in Terchová
The area around Terchová offers many beautiful spots for trips, hikes, and ridge walks. Which ones are the most popular with tourists? Do you have a personal favorite place where you feel at peace?
For ridge hiking, the most popular destinations are the ascents to Veľký Rozsutec and Veľký Kriváň, where you can also take a cable car up to Snilov Saddle. In the mid-elevation areas, the trails through Sokolie and Boboty are very popular. However, the most visited tourist spots are the Dolné, Nové, and Horné Diery, also known as Jánošík‘s Holes. Within the village, the most popular sites are the Way of the Cross on Oravcová Hill, Jánošovia settlement – birthplace of the legendary outlaw Juraj Jánošík – and the Terchová Heart lookout tower. Terchová and Vrátna are filled with charming spots and hidden gems, allowing each visitor to find a place they‘re particularly drawn to – it‘s all about personal perception of beauty. Ironically, my favorite areas are the quiet corners that are yet untouched by mass tourism.
Have you ever gotten lost in your local mountains?
So far, I haven‘t gotten lost in our mountains, and I hope I never will! [laughs]
What is the average age in Terchová? Do young people stay in the village, or do they leave for the city?
The average age of our residents is 41 years. Some young people leave for the cities, but many stay in their hometown, which makes me very happy.
The Terchová-based „Ťažká muzika v Terchovej“ band at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris.
You‘ve been mayor since 2016. What do you consider the most significant achievements in Terchová over the past eight years?
When I became mayor, my first investments were directed toward education. We renovated the buildings and modernized the interiors of both the elementary school and kindergarten. Another key investment was in healthcare – we upgraded the interiors of the health center and added a new annex to the original building. This new section provides additional spaces for doctors as well as a day care center for our seniors.
TERCHOVÁ
The Slovak village of Terchová is a major tourist hub in the Malá Fatra mountains, located 25 kilometers east of Žilina. It gained fame thanks to its local native, Juraj Jánošík, an outlaw celebrated in books, films, and theater. His legacy is commemorated through the annual summer International Meeting of Outlaws as well as the so-called Jánošík Days. However, the village is also active in other areas, hosting events like Cyril and Methodius Days, ascents to Veľký Rozsutec in honor of St. John Paul II, half-marathons, and the popular Halušky Terchová, a competition focused on cooking and eating bryndzové halušky, a beloved Slovak dish. Terchová attracts many tourists, partly due to its nature reserves (Tiesňavy, Chleb, Velká Bránica, and the Boboty mountain massif) and its rich folklore traditions. Terchová music is recognized by UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage. In August 2024, the village celebrated the 70th anniversary of its local football club, which has a strong following. Additionally, Terchová boasts its own national theater and regularly hosts music concerts and various events for mothers and seniors.
