Nature and countryside conservation - Slovenský kras (Slovak Karst) National Park

500 Sk Commemorative Silver Coin

Slovensky Kras National Park is located in the southwest part of Eastern Slovakia. It was established in 2002 on an area of 34,611 hectares and is the largest karst territory in Slovakia. It is characterized by numerous karst formations, the canyon type valleys of the Slana River and the Stitnicky stream, as well as caves and chasms. This area also contains the Zadielska and Hajska gulches and the famous and the frequently visited Gombasecka, Jasovska and Domica caves. Silicka ladnica, a chasm permanently adorned with ice, is a rarity.

The diversity of flora makes it one of the richest regions of Central Europe; well known for example is the rare dog’s tooth violet (Eruthronium Dens-Canis). From a botanical aspect, most important are the endemic plants, such as Onosma Turnense and Draba Lasiocarpa. The national park encompasses one of the most significant ornithological territories within Slovakia and other fauna is also represented in abundance. The presence here of all 24 kinds of bats from the territory of Slovakia is notable.

Description of the coin

Obverse:
Two Emberiza cia sitting on the branch of a tree are depicted on the obverse of the coin at the top of the semicircle. The nominal value of 500 Sk is found below it and the national state shield is below the nominal value. The name of the state SLOVENSKA REPUBLIKA is located near the edge of the coin.

Reverse:
A karst cave and the dog’s tooth violet flower in front of it are depicted on the reverse of the coin. She year of minting 2005 appears under the flower. The name of the national park NARODNY PARK SLOVENSKY KRAS appears near the edge of the coin.