Sacral monuments and pilgrimage sites Južné Slovensko

Kalvária Nitra is located on a hill on the bank of the Nitra River in the southern part of the city. It is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city. It is a frequent and popular spot for walks by locals as well as tourists who love coming here to enjoy the views. During major holidays, Christian pilgrimages are organized here.

Originally, a different calvary built in the last third of the 18th century stood on the site of the current one. It had seven stations and was replaced in 1885 (and subsequently consecrated in that same year) by the present calvary, which has fourteen stations. The original Kaplnka sv. Kríža chapel was converted into Kaplnka Božieho hrobu. While in the early years the calvary was outside the urban area, development gradually began to approach it in the 19th century until it surrounded it in the 20th century. At present, the calvary is very clearly visible from the city, and tourists often start out right from the center of Nitra to go and see it. Near the calvary is Lurdská jaskyňa, which also serves as a chapel.

Overall, the calvary consists of twelve Neo-Romanesque chapels depicting twelve stations of the Stations of the Cross. They are arranged along the path leading from Kostol Nanebovzatia Panny Márie to Kaplnka Božieho hrobu. The latter is located at the top of the hill and represents the fourteenth station. In addition to the chapel of the final station, the Crucifixion statuary is also located at the top of the hill.

Since 1765, a small Renaissance monastery has stood at the top, originally built for the Spanish order of the Nazarenes. It gradually became a residence for retired priests and eventually an orphanage. Between 1878 and 1885, it was rebuilt in the Neo-Romanesque style, and in 1925, an additional floor was added until it ultimately became the Mission House of the Mother of God.

Tourists also enjoy taking a trip to the Nitra calvary, mainly due to the great view it offers. The landmarks of Nitra, Šibeničný vrch, Zoborské vrchy, Tribeč, Pohronský Inovec, Vtáčnik, and Štiavnické vrchy are all right in the palm of their hand. That is what you call a perfect panoramic view. Children and seniors can easily handle the walk to the top of the calvary; it is a pleasant stroll along a grassy path.

Come and experience Nitra from a different perspective. Book accommodation near Kalvária Nitra and follow in the footsteps of the Stations of the Cross. The nice and simple craftsmanship of the chapels underlines the power of the story they tell. You can find inspiration for your stay on the page accommodation Nitra. Be sure to also visit other attractions in Nitra. They are truly interesting. Nitriansky hrad, Botanická záhrada Nitra, Nitrianska galéria, Svoradova jaskyňa, Dražovský kostolík, or Chránená krajinná oblasť Ponitrie are just a few of them. Where will you head first?

The town of Hurbanovo lies in the warmest region of the Podunajská nížina lowland. It is located in the central part of the Komárno district, which is the southernmost district of the Nitra region. In the center of this town, there is a significant sacred monument, the Kostol svätého Ladislava church. It is accessible to all believers during regular religious services. You can also visit it during the summer holidays, when it is open to visitors in the morning hours.

The Kostol sv. Ladislava church in Hurbanovo is one of the town's dominant buildings. Its origins date back to the first third of the 20th century. In 1911, a fire broke out in the town, burning down the church along with the rectory building. On the site where an old Baroque sacred building once stood, a new church was built in the Art Nouveau style between 1912 and 1913.

When visiting this parish single-nave church, you can notice a core inspired by Transylvanian Gothic architecture. The church's floor plan forms an octagon with four arms. Imagine the shape of a cross, with one arm extended. You will also be captivated by the interior space of the temple. In it, you can notice the contrast of white perimeter walls with the dark color tone of the dome. The choir lofts are separated by a carved wooden railing with Hungarian and Transylvanian folk motifs. These same motifs can also be found on the pulpit. You can also admire the painting of the Brno Madonna, restored paintings, and a beautiful altar.

The author of this monumental building is the renowned Hungarian architect István Medgyaszay. He became famous mainly for using a new material in the territory of the Kingdom of Hungary, reinforced concrete. The church tower reaches a height of 48 meters and is connected to the church by a wooden marquee. On its facade, you will find a clock face. If you are interested in coming here for a moment of quiet personal prayer in the house of God, we recommend booking accommodation near the Kostol sv. Ladislava church in Hurbanovo.

Have you decided to stay in Hurbanovo for a longer period? Do not miss the second Roman Catholic church, Kostol sv. Anny, or other monuments in the town. During a walk, you can spot several manor houses and mansions. Do not miss a visit to the oldest observatory in Slovakia. The Slovenská ústredná hvezdáreň observatory will offer you a view of the night sky with shining stars or other celestial phenomena. Lovers of swimming, lounging, or beauty treatments can visit the Plaváreň Relax komplex swimming pool complex. For children, you can prepare an interesting program by visiting Easy Ranch, a place where they can ride a horse.

Since time is very precious and needs to be planned wisely, we definitely recommend booking accommodation in Hurbanovo. Our hosts will gladly accommodate you in their apartmány Hurbanovo apartments or other types of accommodation facilities. We believe that the accommodation options will exceed your expectations and that you will be able to enjoy a wonderful time with your loved ones. Do not miss the opportunity to book a date in an accommodation that meets your criteria and come enjoy fantastic experiences in Hurbanovo.

If you decide to visit the ancient city of Nitra, you will certainly find plenty of beautiful things and cultural monuments to visit and make your stay more enjoyable. Worth noting and visiting is Dražovský kostolík, which is a unique cultural and sacral monument of this region. You can find it in the village of Dražovce, which was a borough of Nitra until 1975. You can get here by car or by public transport. The village is a well-known archaeological site from the era of Slavic settlement. A settlement and a burial ground from the period of Great Moravia were located here. Archaeologists discovered over 400 graves with significant artifacts in this location.

You will see the church from afar. This simple structure proudly towers on the edge of a limestone cliff, which is a spur of the Tribeč mountain range. It is a landmark that cannot be overlooked. The church is the oldest sacral building of the Romanesque type in the territory of Slovakia. Its origin is dated back to the 12th century. It is officially named after Saint Michael the Archangel. Upon your arrival, you will be charmed not only by the structure itself, but also by the location where it stands and its unique atmosphere. The church has a rectangular floor plan. On the east side, there is an apse alcove in the shape of a semicircle. The roof is a simple gabled roof covered with tiles. On the west side towers a small turret with a pyramidal roof. The building is constructed of stone and brick. The nave of the church measures only 6.3 x 4.3 m. The entrance is from the side. The windows are small and set relatively high. It is assumed that another building, a hermitage, was attached to the church in the past.

The church is mostly closed. You can get inside only exceptionally if you request it in advance. The only exception occurs annually on September 29, when Michael celebrates his name day. At that time, Holy Mass is regularly held here. From the hill sought after by tourists, there is a wonderful view of the city of Nitra and surrounding villages. From here you will also see Nitriansky hrad. Did you know that the oldest part of the church contained mortar dating back to the 9th century? It is also written that the church was meant to fall victim to the construction of a railway line, for which stone was quarried from the hill on which it stands. Only protests by local residents saved it from demolition.

The church has caught the eye of many artists with its appearance. In addition to paintings, it appeared on postage stamps and coins. Not only documentary, but also feature films were shot here. Such famous Slovak music bands as Tublatanka also used the environment to shoot their music videos. Do you remember the 50 SKK banknote? Yes, this famous church is depicted on it as well. We believe that our story about this place has intrigued you so much that you will decide to find and explore it during your next visit to Nitra.

The nearby city of Nitra is popular not only with students, but also with visitors from all over Slovakia. During its tour, in addition to a spiritual experience, you can treat yourself to others as well. Feel free to lift your artistic spirit during a performance that you can choose from the repertoire of Staré divadlo Karola Spišáka v Nitre. Professional acting performances can also be enjoyed on the stage of Divadlo Andreja Bagara. You can also reach Svoradova jaskyňa cave along a hiking trail. On summer days when temperatures exceed 25 °C, you can cool off in the pool at Kúpalisko na Sihoti - Nitra.

To truly enjoy your time here to the fullest, we recommend booking accommodation near Dražovský kostolík. In our offer, you will find a variety of accommodation facilities. Property owners will be happy to accommodate you in their apartments in Dražovce. Or will rooms in private accommodation appeal to you more? The choice is entirely up to you.

The Benediktínsky kláštor monastery represents a magnificent complex of fortified sacral buildings. It is situated in the village of Hronský Beňadik, in the Žarnovica district. The monastery site extends in the valley of the Hron river, on the southern foothills of Pohronský Inovec. Due to its uniqueness, the monastery has been declared a national cultural monument and one of the seven wonders of the Banskobystrický region. Visitors are awed not only by its monumentality, but also by the combination of sacral and defensive structures and the blending of various architectural styles. The premises of the historical building offer the opportunity to visit a rare basilica, a chapel, a reconstructed part of the granary with a historical exhibition, and the monastery tea room.

The Benediktínske opátstvo abbey was solemnly consecrated as early as 1075. The construction of today's building complex was carried out in the mid-14th century. A Gothic church with a triple sanctuary and the monastic part were built. Decades later, a three-aisled nave, two towers, and a Late Gothic entrance portal were added. At that time, the monastery was complemented by the entire southern wing. The year 1483 was significant when the monastery received a rare relic of the blood of Christ from King Matej I. It is said to be a piece of the cloth with which Veronica wiped Jesus' face during the Way of the Cross. In 1508, the so-called abbatial wing was added to the complex, and a monastic garden was built in the middle of the monastery. In subsequent years, the Kaplnka sv. Krvi chapel was completed.

The early 16th century was closely intertwined with Ottoman invasions. Subsequent architectural modifications of the monastery therefore meant its gradual fortification. Ultimately, both the monastery and the church were rebuilt into a Renaissance fortress. Massive walls and cannon bastions suddenly became part of the complex. In the following years, the monastery building was part of a system of fortresses providing protection to central Slovakia. The Turkish raids significantly damaged the rare architecture. As part of the reconstruction, a large granary was built on the site of the collapsed wing.

Currently, the central part of the building system is formed by the so-called paradise courtyard. It is surrounded by monastic buildings and the temple church, which was elevated to the minor basilica of Bazilika minor sv. Benedikta by Pope František in 2019. It represents a magnificent three-aisled structure with a Gothic entrance portal. The facade with a pair of towers dominates the church. On its southern side, the original Late Gothic Kaplnka sv. Krvi chapel from 1489 is still located today. The furnishings of the church are relatively modest today. Three sculptures of the main altar, the relic of the blood of Christ, a Baroque baptismal font, and the crypt of the Koháry family have been preserved from the original equipment. A very rare monument is the organ from 1714.

Inside the monastic buildings, the huge interior of the granary is accessible to visitors. Just one floor of the four-story space has an amazing area of 800 m2. On the ground floor, an exhibition introducing the history of the St. Benedict abbey to the public is situated. A unique space for relaxation and refreshment is the rare monastery tea room. Its tasteful premises offer not only a pleasant sit-down over a cup of herbal tea, but also the opportunity to soak up the atmosphere of the ancient monastery. You can take a tour of the complex individually or with a guide for a symbolic fee.

You can make your journey into the history of this architectural gem of Pohronie more pleasant by a trip to the nearby Starohutský vodopád waterfall or by visiting the interesting interactive information center Energoland located in Kalná nad Hronom. We also recommend relaxation by the nearby Tajch water reservoir and, for horse lovers, a visit to the National Stud Farm in Topoľčianky. And when you find that one day in this region is simply not enough, look for accommodation in the vicinity of the Benediktínske kláštor monastery on our portal. Accommodation in Hronský Beňadik and surrounding areas will certainly not disappoint you with its offer. Alternatively, you can also choose nearby accommodation in Žarnovica. Even in this case, you will not be far from local attractions.

You will find Katedrála sv. Jána Krstiteľa on Univerzitné námestie, in the northwestern part of Trnava. This Early Baroque cathedral church is the largest and most magnificent twin-towered church in Trnava. Did you know that the Early Baroque altar located here is the tallest altar in Slovakia as well as in Central Europe? In 1978, this church received an honor from Pope John Paul II, who elevated it to a cathedral, and in 2003 he also visited it.

The cathedral ranks among the most valuable historical monuments in Trnava and is part of the building complex of the former Trnavská univerzita. At the same time, it is the first Early Baroque sacred building in Slovakia. The origins of the church are linked to the second arrival of the Jesuits in Trnava. The donor of the church, who also financed the construction, was the Palatine of the Kingdom of Hungary, Mikuláš Esterházy. In 1629, he entrusted its construction to the Italian master builders Antonio and Pietro Spazzo.

The consecration of the church took place on August 30, 1637, by Bishop Juraj Lippai. The first Holy Mass in the church was celebrated by the Archbishop of Esztergom, Imrich Lóši. This single-nave, twin-towered church is 61 m long and 28 m wide. The interior is decorated with colorful paintings that will awe many a visitor. Above its main entrance is a pediment with statues of seated angels and a stone coat of arms of the Esterházy family. Beneath this coat of arms, the stone coat of arms of the Trnavská arcidiecéza is also placed.

The jewel of the entire interior is the magnificent all-wooden altar, which was completed in 1640. The altar is as high as 20.3 m and is the work of several carvers, sculptors, and gilders. Its dominant feature is a painting of Jesus Christ, followed by scenes from the life of John the Baptist. Breathtaking as well is the rich decoration with gilded and polychromed ornaments, three altarpieces, and dozens of artistic sculptures. An interesting fact is that hidden beneath the church are crypts where members of the Society of Jesus and four members of the Esterházy family, who fell in battle against the Turks at Vozokany in 1652, rest.

You can visit the cathedral from May 17 until the end of October, every day except Sunday. If the visit to the cathedral captured your heart, visit Dóm sv. Mikuláša as well, which was declared a basilica minor by Pope Benedict XVI on November 9, 2008. Treat your body to fairy-tale rest and relaxation and enjoy an extraordinary day at Aquapark Trnava. Accommodation near Katedrála sv. Jána Krstiteľa can be found on our accommodation Trnava page. You can choose from a wide range of apartments and guesthouses. We wish you a wonderful holiday full of unforgettable experiences.

Bratislavská Kalvária was one of the first significant calvaries not only in Slovakia, but also in the Kingdom of Hungary at the time. You can find it in the district of Staré Mesto, on Kalvársky vrch in Bratislava. It was built in memory of the battle against the Turks near Vienna in 1683. According to most lexicons that refer to the Bible, a calvary is understood as a place or hill where Jesus Christ was crucified in Jerusalem. It is also associated with the depiction of the Way of the Cross with 14 stations.

The establishment of the Kalvária dates back to 1694. Its construction was initiated by the Jesuits, members of the Society of Jesus. It was completed in the 1920s and thus became a dominant landmark of Prešporek at the time. A sad fact is that with the onset of the communist regime in the 1950s, it underwent targeted destruction and devastation. Instead of stations with crosses, you will only find pictures with liturgical texts nailed to trees. The Kalvária has been operating in a provisional mode for many years, but it is gradually being restored. In 2020, the reconstruction of the only preserved chapel began, and the restoration plan also mentions the reconstruction of the stairs.

The first station was located at the site of today's SAV public transport stop, near the church of Cyril and Methodius. Did you know that the Kalvária became a refuge in 1713 for the people of Bratislava who survived a plague wave there? A part of the original path has been preserved to this day and is gradually being revitalized, also thanks to the OZ Bratislavská Kalvária. Kalvársky vrch continues to serve as a place of prayer and occasional Stations of the Cross. Not far from Bratislavská Kalvária stands the Kostol Panny Márie Snežnej and a Lourdes cave with a marble statue of the Virgin Mary.

After a romantic walk along the Kalvária, head to the center of Bratislava and experience plenty of fun discovering great attractions with which our capital is practically packed. Take a stroll through Staré Mesto and take a nice photo with the statue of Čumil and Schöne Náci. Walk through Michalská brána and take a look at Dóm sv. Martina, which belongs to the oldest Gothic sacred buildings in Slovakia. A visit to the Zoologická záhrada Bratislava and the botanical garden will also be a pleasant experience. Do not spend a lot of money on expensive accommodation; in our accommodation offer in Staré Mesto Bratislava, you will also find affordable options. Act quickly and book accommodation around Bratislavská Kalvária today. Our capital will surely win you over, and you will return home rested and full of unforgettable experiences.

The pilgrimage site Lurdská jaskyňa Marianka is located in the eponymous village of Marianka, near the town of Stupava, just 10 kilometers from Bratislava. This peaceful place in Záhorie is part of the pilgrimages in Marianske údolie. Christians from all over the world bring their gratitude and prayer here to the Virgin Mary.

Lourdes caves are built by Christians in honor of the apparition of the Virgin Mary. In 1858, the Virgin Mary appeared to a young girl, Bernadette, in the French town of Lourdes. Since then, smaller and larger caves have been built with a statue of the Virgin Mary and a small girl kneeling at her feet. This imitation of the apparition also enjoys popularity in Slovakia, where there are several dozen Lourdes caves.

Lurdská jaskyňa in Marianka is among the favorite places where Christians can express their respect and humility. Originally, this cave was built at the entrance to the church of Bazilika Marianka in 1906. Later, in 1914, it was relocated to the forested part below the slope of the valley. The parishioner Adolf Slovák played the main role in its construction.

Lurdská jaskyňa serves as a place of worship, which is why the parish of Narodenie Panny Márie in Marianka considered rebuilding this space for a longer time so that it would also be suitable for celebrating holy masses. The idea came from architect Ivan Jarina, who proposed the reconstruction. Access stairs to the cave were constructed. A concrete wall was built here, where all the votive/thanksgiving plaques were placed, and a section was prepared for additional ones to come.

Benches were placed around the cave so that people could rest and pray. They also installed a new statue of the Virgin Mary, because the previous one was destroyed by vandals. The site was consecrated at the Feast of the Holy Trinity by the archbishop in 2018.

Marianka as a pilgrimage location offers other interesting places you can visit in addition to Lurdská jaskyňa. One of them is Křížová cesta (the Stations of the Cross). Life-size statues built in 14 chapels remind us of the Passion of Jesus Christ. Kaplnky siedmich radostí Panny Márie or Kaplnka Svätej Studne are also popular.

Marianka is undoubtedly one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in Slovakia. Set out for prayer at this place yourself, or go see other sights in southern Slovakia. We offer you accommodation near Lurdská jaskyňa Marianka or accommodation in Záhorie on our website. Whether you are looking for a peaceful guesthouse or a comfortable apartment, you will surely find your choice with us.

In the second smallest town in Slovakia, you can find remarkable monuments. The town of Modrý Kameň is located in the Banskobystrický kraj region, in the Veľký Krtíš district. In addition to its significant castle complex, which almost every Slovak knows, do not miss a tour of the Baroque mansion or the beautiful 18th-century Calvary.

If you are interested and want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the town, you can pause and breathe in the fresh air, or combine your walk with a prayer at the Calvary in Modrý Kameň. It is located on the edge of the town, in an area referred to as Modrokamenská lesostep. It is a nature reserve where you can observe various heat-loving steppe and forest communities of the Krupinská planina. You can get to the Calvary via Pánska cesta or Zámocká street. From here, a moderately rising bumpy forest path leads.

The Calvary reportedly originated in the early 18th century when Count Pavol Balaš had it built. Even back then, it consisted of 5 stations depicting purgatory, the Last Judgment, the resurrection of Christ, the guardian angel, and the blessed Virgin depicting the refuge of sinners. This Calvary gradually expanded and currently consists of 2 chapels and 10 stations of the Stations of the Cross. The central structure is an open rectangular chapel with a sculptural group of Christ on the cross and two other crosses with the thieves. When walking through this Calvary, your gaze will certainly fall upon a 6-meter-high cross created in 1863 to commemorate the visit of this place by Cardinal Ján Sczitovský. Art lovers will be enthused by many late-Baroque elements.

The Calvary is a popular place especially for mothers who want to escape the worries of everyday life. Tourists also put on their hiking boots and, from the elevation where it is located, fully enjoy views of the town and nature. Those who are indifferent to the values of faith can come here for a pilgrimage and honor the Holy Cross and Our Lady of Sorrows.

If you like exploring history, also head to the nearby attraction hrad Modrý Kameň. Very good, chemically untreated water will cool you down during the summer in the pools of the Krtko bio swimming pool. If you crave relaxation in a sauna or the opportunity to have fun on water slides, direct your steps to Aquathermal Strehová. You can also have fun during a game of Military Paintball. From this experience, you might take away some bruise on your body.

Sometimes it takes a bit more time for spiritual renewal than just one day. So that you can stay longer, we recommend booking accommodation near the Calvary in Modrý Kameň. The offer of accommodation facilities on the MegaUbytovanie portal features a wide spectrum of accommodations. Perhaps you will be interested in the catalog by pleasant and affordable accommodation in tourist hostels or you will book the entire Modrý Kameň cottage straight away. Our accommodation providers will gladly welcome you.