Drevený artikulárny kostol Leštiny
The cultural and historical wealth of Orava is not just the dominant Oravský hrad castle and the popular Múzeum oravskej dediny. This magical paradise for tourists also hides lesser-known, yet all the more unique architectural gems. One of them is undoubtedly the Drevený artikulárny kostol (Wooden Articular Church) from the 17th century. It is situated in the small village of Leštiny, located 7 km from the district town of Dolný Kubín. The beautiful structure, built using spruce wood from the surrounding forests, attracts visitors with its exterior alone. However, the real treasures that delight the eye and pleasantly warm the soul can be found inside.
The wooden church was built between 1688 and 1689 by order of Jób Zmeškal, the first vice-ispán in Dolný Kubín and captain of the castle guard at Oravský hrad. The church complex also includes a rectory located in its immediate vicinity. The dominant hipped roof of the building is covered with wooden shingles. The interior of the small church stands out with its rich decoration featuring diverse motifs, shapes, and colors. A true gem is the Baroque altar with wood carvings from the late 17th century and the richly decorated pulpit.
The small church is built on a steep slope. The incline of the terrain was leveled during its construction with a stone foundation. Thanks to this, the beautiful wooden structure acts as a dominant feature of the entire village and invites visitors and passers-by from afar. Many of them have no idea that they are standing on the spot where one of the greatest Slovak poets, Pavol Országh Hviezdoslav, was baptized. Evangelical church services are still held in the church every Sunday to this day.
If you find yourself near the village of Leštiny during your holiday in Orava, be sure not to miss a visit to the picturesque wooden church. And when you are touched by the place where the great Slovak man of letters was baptized, visit his nearby birthplace, Vyšný Kubín. In the building of Arpádovský kaštieľ, a permanent exhibition dedicated to Pavol Országh Hviezdoslav is open to visitors. And if this walk through time excites you, also visit the local archeopark Praveká osada Mokrý Kút. Orava is a true paradise of unique places tailor-made for original holiday experiences. If you decide to spend your next holiday in this region, book accommodation near Drevený artikulárny kostol Leštiny right now. Accommodation in Orava offers a wide range of private cottages and chalets, as well as comfortable guesthouses and apartments.























































