Khust is one of the oldest towns in Transcarpathia, with a rich history and sights that have survived from the depths of centuries. In addition, Khust is also famous as one of the best ski resorts in Ukraine, and as a region with unique natural treasures.
In the IX-X centuries in the place where Khust has been located for over 900 years, there were ancient Slavic settlements, then these territories were part of Kievan Rus. In the XI century Hungarians came here and, having subdued the local population, stayed here for a long time. Khust became a real city after the arrival of the Hungarians, when the Hungarian king Laszlo I, for protection from the Polovtsians, began building a castle on a high mountain near the place where the Rika River flows into Tisa.
Khust castle grew, its walls were rising higher and higher, the city around it was growing, its population was increasing. The history of the city is inextricably linked with the castle, and today Chust Castle is considered the main and one of the most interesting sights of the city. It is because of this ancient attraction of Khust, the construction of which began back in 1090, many tourists who are partial to mysterious and mesmerizing castles and fortresses come to the city.
In 1329 Khust receives the status of «royal city» from King Charles Robert, this year is considered the date of the city’s foundation. Since then, Khust and its impregnable castle become a desired prey for many states and rulers. Poles, Tatars, Turks and other conquerors tried to seize it. As a result, during its history it was part of the Galicia-Volyn principality, independent Hungary, Austrian Empire and even Transylvania. For several years, the town and castle were owned by the knight Drag, the grandfather of Vlad Tepes (Count Dracula).
The rich history has left a noticeable trace in the architecture of the city. Walking along its small, cozy streets, you can admire such sights as Elizavetinsky Church of the XIII century in the Gothic style, synagogue of the early XX century, St. Nicholas Church of the XVIII century, Catholic Church of the early XX century, Orthodox Church of the Annunciation and just old authentic houses under red tiled roofs.
One of the city’s attractions is also considered to be a felt factory — experts call Khust felt the best in Europe, and made in Khust felt hats for men, women and children are sold even in the fashionable capital of France.
Numerous tourist treasures are collected in the surrounding area. Not far from the city there are such famous sights of Khust as the village of Iza — the center of Ukrainian vine weaving, deer and ostrich farms, resort village Shayan with therapeutic mineral waters and excellent ski slopes, and, of course, the famous Daffodil Valley, which is said to be the most beautiful natural landmark of Ukraine, delighting all who see it.
For those who want to visit a beautiful, quiet and cozy, but ready to offer a lot of ways of recreation for every taste Ukrainian city, Khust will be an interesting place. This city has the status of attractions of Transcarpathia for a reason — in it and its surroundings everyone will find something to his liking. Nature, healing clean air, incredibly beautiful landscapes, an ancient castle, architectural and historical sights, interesting and unusual places to visit — in Khust you can find a lot of opportunities for the most unforgettable and diverse vacation.