Liberation80: Hiking Tour Planned Along Remaining German Fortifications

Trstin, March 22 (TASR) - A hiking event passing through the remaining German defensive positions around the villages of Trstin and Bukova (both Trnava regoion) will begin at Smolenice railway station at 8.30 a.m. on April 12 and end at the Bukova hunting lodge, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, TASR has learnt from archeologist Matus Sladok. "The event will include a hiking tour of the remains of German fortifications, a demonstration of German soldiers occupying a reinforced concrete bunker and preparing for battle, and a small exhibition of period artifacts, including archaeological finds," he explained. The event will include an expert commentary by Sladok. The hike covers a distance of approximately 12 kilometres, and participation in the entire hike is recommended for more physically fit tourists in good health. During the Second World War, the ground battles on the territory of modern-day Slovakia lasted from September 1944 to May 1945. "In Trnava district, Nazi Germany and its allies were also preparing to defend against the advancing Red and Romanian Armies," added Sladok, noting that the fighting moved beyond the district after a week, towards the west and north of the Small Carpathians. lin/df