Slovakia is known in Korea as the “Detroit of Europe,” a hub of manufacturing for global car companies such as Kia Motors.

Less known here is the Central European nation’s rich tradition in mineral springs and spa resort towns. Some 1,800 mineral springs and 24 historic spa towns pepper the small country of 5.5 million people.

The Slovak Embassy pitched their rich spa tradition to an audience of travel agents and journalists during a reception at the chancery on Thursday.

Three spa towns ― Piestany, Smrdaky and Qudince ― stand out as the largest and most well-known spa resorts in the country.

Piestany is well known for its sulfurous mud baths. The mineral content of Piestany’s sulfurous mud chalk full of healthy goodness is unique in the world, the embassy said.

Slovakian Ambassador to Korea Dusan Bella pointed out that Slovakians use the spas to complement medical treatments for ailments afflicting musculoskeletal system, skin, nerves and even digestion.

“Some 30,000 Koreans visited Slovakia in 2012 but these tourists only stay in Bratislava for a few days,” he said.

Bella said his intention is to try to introduce Slovakia’s beautiful spa towns to the Korean public.

(ephilip2011@heraldcorp.com)