Memorial: In the footsteps of Hidden Children 2027


At Post Bellum, each year we set out on a journey of more than 120 kilometres in the footsteps of Eli and Esti—children who had to hide during World War II because of their Jewish origins.

The Memorial is about REMEMBERING AND BRINGING THE PAST’S MESSAGE INTO THE PRESENT, hiking, and nature. The inspiration for the Memorial was the Vrba–Wetzler Memorial, which our director Sandra Polovková completed in 2018. It was during this walk, in conversations with Róbert Schmidt and Zuzana Kohútová, that the idea of a journey across Slovakia was born.

The Memorial will take place from July 25 to August 1, 2027

Register

Six days of hiking across Slovakia, from Vrútky to Čierny Balog, enriched by cultural events—concerts, discussions and workshops—that retrace the lives of two Jewish children during World War II, when they fought for their lives almost every day.

  • During the week, participants will also learn about other stories of people who survived the war and the Holocaust as children.
  • Together, we explore the modern history of the 20th century and deepen our knowledge of it. We become part of the real stories that shape history.
  • The six days take shape in approximately 120 kilometres, which you can spend talking with the group or reflecting in your own solitude.
  • The Memorial is about REMEMBERING AND BRINGING THE PAST’S MESSAGE INTO THE PRESENT, hiking, and nature.
  • If you are unable to continue or need a longer rest, a support vehicle from our long-standing partner Hyundai Slovakia is always available. Throughout the week, you hike only with a daypack. The rest of your luggage remains at the accommodation or is transported by bus.
  • The fee includes breakfasts and dinners. Participants arrange their own lunches for the hikes. Organisers will let participants know which days shops will be unavailable and participants will arrange for supplies in advance. Card payments are accepted in shops. During stops on the hikes, for example at local restaurants, we also recommend carrying some cash.

Registration fee:

⏰ Until January 31, 2027, the registration fee is €400
❤️ For people working in education or otherwise involved in the educational system, the fee is €250

⏰ From February 1, 2027, the registration fee will be €500
❤️ For people working in education or otherwise involved in the educational system, the fee is €250

The fee includes accommodation in guesthouses each day, breakfasts, dinners, bus transport during the week-long journey, museum admissions and the cultural programme.

Cancellation policy: if you cancel up to one month before the event begins, the cancellation fee is 50%. If you cancel two weeks or less before the event begins, the cancellation fee is 100%.

COMPLETING THE REGISTRATION FORM CONSTITUTES A BINDING REGISTRATION. AFTER SUBMITTING THE FORM, YOU WILL RECEIVE AN EMAIL WITH PAYMENT INSTRUCTIONS.

THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS IS 52.

🤍 PROGRAMME

Day 0, Sunday, July 25, 2027

– Meet-up in Vrútky

– Opening of the Memorial Registration, instructions, introductions, cultural event

Walking distance: 0 km

Day 1, Monday, July 26, 2027

– Vrútky – Martin route

Walking distance: 14 km

Day 2, Tuesday, July 27, 2027

– Holocaust Museum in Sereď

– Sereď – Nitra route

Walking distance: 35 km

Day 3, Wednesday, July 28, 2027

– Zvolen – guided tour of the Jewish cemetery and the Park of Noble Souls

– Banská Bystrica, Kremnička

Walking distance: 7 km

Cultural event in the evening

Day 4, Thursday, July 29, 2027

– Banská Bystrica – Strelníky

Walking distance: 20 km

Day 5, Friday, July 30, 2027

– Strelníky – Jasenová Pass – Tri Vody

Walking distance: 20 km

Day 6, Saturday, July 31, 2027

– Hrončok – Kamenistá Valley – Sihla

Walking distance: 26 km

Day 7, Sunday, August 1, 2027

– Breakfast and farewell

Walking distance: 0 km

Related short videos::

Registration form

    (Participation fee: 50% of the full amount)