Pútnické miesto Skalka
A sought-after pilgrimage site located in the village of Skalka nad Váhom, near Trenčín, is the oldest pilgrimage site in Slovakia as well as in the former Kingdom of Hungary. During their visit, pilgrims honor and remember the lives of the saints, Andrew-Zorard and Benedict, who once lived here up until the beginning of the 11th century. Visit this soul-stirring site where you will be charmed by Diecézna svätyňa (Diocesan Shrine) and Kláštor Veľká Skalka, which is a national cultural monument. If you want to experience the main pilgrimage, plan your trip for the weekend following July 17th, which is the feast day of Sts. Zorard and Benedict.
Malá Skalka, upon which the aforementioned Diecézna svätyňa is built, is the site from which St. Benedict was thrown into the Váh River by a group of bandits who ambushed him. Prior to that, he lived a strict life here for years, following his teacher St. Andrew-Zorard. His body was found only after a year, almost incorrupt. A smaller twin-tower church was built in memory of the mentioned saints. Zorard, who was of Polish origin, came to our territory around the year 1020. He was accepted into a Benedictine monastery, where he received the name Andrew. Later, he retired to solitude, where he lived as a hermit in an ascetic manner. At Malá Skalka, you can attend Holy Mass, which takes place every day except during the Christmas and Easter seasons at 16:00, and on Sundays also at 11:00.
Veľká Skalka is the site where a Gothic monastery once stood. This location commemorates the Benedictine abbey where the Benedictines operated until the 16th century. Later, the monastery was donated to the Jesuits, who rebuilt it. However, the Kuruc raids and wars also affected the construction of the church and monastery. The Jesuits partially renovated it again, and the last reconstruction was carried out in 1768. The Jesuits had to leave Skalka three years prior, when the order was dissolved. During the 20th century, partial modifications were carried out by local parish priests. The complex, as a cultural monument and pilgrimage site, was only stabilized in the current century. The monastery is accessible from April to October during weekends, and in the summer season, it is open daily except Mondays. A tour guide is available as a matter of course. If you decide to visit the monastery in a large group, contact the guide service in advance. During the tour, you can purchase small souvenirs, the purchase of which contributes to the further development and maintenance of the monastery. In addition to the pilgrimage, spiritual, and cultural tours, the monastery is also popular with newlyweds for wedding photos. All it takes is an arrangement with the guide.
The pilgrimage site of Skalka is sought after not only by locals, but also by Czechs and Poles. Naturally, it sees the highest attendance during the main pilgrimage in mid-summer, which is followed by the internationally renowned gathering of artists, Ora et Ars. Additionally, you can participate in other events throughout the year, such as a literary-artistic symposium, a pilgrimage for healthcare workers or folklorists, or the Night of Churches event.
Come discover the Stredné Považie region and visit the famous Pútnické miesto Skalka. You will find a wide choice of accommodation in the nearby town of Trenčín. Stay in a modern apartment and, in addition to the pilgrimage, head out to Slovakia's city of fashion, whose dominant landmark is Trenčiansky hrad castle. On your way through the streets of the town, don't miss Dom mestského kata (the Executioner's House) or Trenčianske múzeum. If you are drawn to a nature trip, between the villages of Zamarovce and Skalka nad Váhom, you will find Opatovská jaskyňa cave. Whatever you decide, we believe you will enjoy your trip with family or friends.
