Zvolen (Slovak pronunciation: [ˈzʋɔlen] ⓘ; Hungarian: Zólyom; German: Altsohl) is a city in central Slovakia, situated on the confluence of Hron and Slatina rivers.

In the ninth century, a Slavic settlement (today the Môťová neighborhood) became a regional center of what is now central Slovakia.

In the Rákóczi's War of Independence the Kuruc army in the battle of Zvolen defeated the enemy forces from Austria, Denmark, Vojvodina and Hungary.

[9] Zvolen's paramount landmark, the Zvolenský zámok Castle, stands as a significant symbol of the city's historical and cultural heritage.

Within its venerable walls, the Slovak National Gallery curates a distinguished collection spanning Gothic to modern art, offering visitors an immersive experience in artistic evolution.

Notably, since its establishment in 1974, the castle's courtyard has been the esteemed venue for the Zámocké hry zvolenské, an annual outdoor professional theatre festival of great renown.

This cultural tradition underscores the castle's pivotal role as a nexus of artistic expression and community engagement in the region.

Due to the largely concealed state of the preserved ruins from the city of Zvolen, a portion of the hill of Horný hrad was cleared of trees.

Currently, it is possible not only to observe the castle walls' remnants from Zvolen but also to enjoy the panoramic view of the Zvolenská kotlina basin and the surrounding mountain ranges from Pustý hrad.

The dominant feature of the main town square in the city center is the isolated building of Roman-Catholic parish Church of St. Elizabeth from the 14th century.

It was reportedly chosen as one of the region's established institutions due to its contributions during the Slovak National Uprising and to bolster the cultural and industrial fabric of the city.

The dominating feature of the eastern part of the town centre is the model of the Hurban armoured train as a memorial to the Slovak National Uprising which is situated in the park between the Castle and the main Zvolen osobná railway station.

The university has the following faculties:[11] The largest town in central Pohronie, Zvolen, boasts a highly advantageous transportation location.

Situated at the intersection of key national roadways (R1, R2) and significant railway routes of nationwide importance, it also enjoys proximity to the international Sliač Airport.

The main station is a dual-aisle building inspired by ancient temples, featuring a colonnade and a large basilica-style glazing.