In the cadastral area of the village of Nižná na Orave lies František’s Ironworks (Františkova
huta), a unique technical monument and one of the most valuable industrial heritage sites in
the entire region. This historic 19th century ironworks is a rare remnant of the Industrial
Revolution and the industrialisation of Orava.
František’s Ironworks (Františkova huta) was established in 1836 and remained in operation
until 1863. At that time, it was an important centre for iron processing and significantly
contributed to the economic development of the Orava region. Even after more than a
century, it impresses visitors with its neoclassical architecture and well preserved technical
elements.
During your visit to František’s Ironworks, you can admire the monumental neoclassical
façade, the original perimeter walls, and the blast furnace — the heart of any ironworks. You
can also see the bellows chamber and preserved channels that document the original
technological process.
The place exudes history and authenticity, attracting the attention of tourists and film-makers
alike. The impressive scenery of the ironworks caught the attention of the renowned Slovak
director Juraj Jakubisko, who filmed scenes here for his famous films “The Millennial Bee”
(Tisícročná včela) and “An Ambiguous Report About the End of the World” (Nejasná správa
o konci sveta).
Discover the industrial history of Orava in a place where technology, architecture, and history
converge – František’s Ironworks (Františkova huta) near Nižná will captivate you with its
unique atmosphere.
How to get there?
The technical monument is located in Orava, in the cadastral area of the village of Nižná,
about 2 km south-east of the centre of Podbiel, along the main road of Studený Potok Valley
towards Zuberec.
Parking
There is a parking plot on a meadow next to the main road.