Sacral monuments and pilgrimage sites Slanské vrchy

The Roman Catholic Bazilika Narodenia Panny Márie is the most valuable and oldest historical monument in the town of Vranov nad Topľou. Since 2008, the church has carried the designation "minor," making it one of thirteen basilicas in Slovakia with this significant honorary title, which comes directly from the Pope. This modestly looking historical monument came to the awareness of Christians worldwide thanks to a miraculous event that occurred in the region. A rare historical icon of the Virgin Mary by an unknown author shed bloody tears before the eyes of local people. This happened in 1708.

The miraculous painting of the Virgin Mary executed on canvas with oil colors was subsequently transferred to the church. On September 8, 1708, the church was dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, and ever since, it has been drawing Marian pilgrims from all over Zemplín every year on September 8. Another miracle is the event from 1718 when a fire broke out in the church, but the painting remained undamaged. The church thus became an even more significant pilgrimage site, as evidenced by the Decree on the Establishment of the Pilgrimage Site dated June 29, 1999.

The church was originally built in 1441 by the Franciscans as a monastery church. After their departure from the town, the evangelicals took over the administration of the church from the Franciscans and managed it from 1540 to 1672. Subsequently, in 1672, the spiritual administration of the church was taken over by the monastic order of the Order of Saint Paul the First Hermit, the so-called Paulines, with whom the basilica is associated to this day. The cult of the Mother of God is characteristic of the Paulines, as they managed many Marian shrines. In the territory of Slovakia, their administration also included, for example, the pilgrimage sites in Šaštín and Marianka near Bratislava. After almost a century of activity in Vranov, the Paulines had to leave the monastery by order of Joseph II, and their order moved from Slovakia to Poland. The monks returned back to Vranov only after more than 200 years.

From an architectural standpoint, the Bazilika Narodenia Panny Márie ranks among late Gothic monumental sacral structures. Although you wouldn't say so at a glance from the outside, the church interior is a magnificent Baroque work from the first half of the 18th century and appeals to every visitor. The miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary of Vranov depicting the Mother of God holding the child on her right forearm is located in the center of the altar superstructure. The main altar is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. There are also other, smaller altars in the basilica. The side ones are dedicated to St. Paul the Hermit, after whom the Pauline Order is named, and St. Pope Clement I. The fourth altar, located on the northern side of the church, is dedicated to St. John Nepomuk, the martyr of the seal of confession. The great reverence of the Vranov Paulines for this saint is confirmed by the reliquary with his remains in the interior and the sculptural group in the exterior of the church, included in the state list of cultural monuments.

Also preserved in the Vranov basilica is a very valuable Baroque-Rococo collection of liturgical objects consisting of a monstrance, chalice, ciborium, and pectoral cross. This unique liturgical set is the work of the most famous personality of Baroque goldsmithing in Slovakia, Ján Silaši, and rightfully belongs on the list of national cultural monuments. A precious testimony to the existence of Baroque sculpture in Eastern Slovakia are the perfect woodcarving creations from the workshop of Jozef Hartman, which adorn the altars and the pulpit. The atmosphere of the distant past is complemented by wall paintings by the prominent Czech Baroque painter J. L. Kracker.

If the Bazilika Narodenia Panny Márie has caught your interest and you would like to find out more, a guided tour can be requested from the Rímskokatolícky farský úrad Sever, which is seated in the parish building of the former Pauline monastery. Although the monastery building is of a later date, originating from the 17th century, it is likewise a historical monument worth visiting. Right from a distance, you will be charmed by the entrance portal, which can boast the attribute of an architectural landmark of artistic significance.

Book your accommodation near the Bazilika Narodenia Panny Márie and come enjoy Vranov nad Topľou and its surroundings. After visiting the historical monuments in the town, whose name is derived from a crow (vrana), head out into nature and discover the Slanské vrchy. Set out on foot, by bike, or in winter comfortably on cross-country skis. You will be thrilled not only by the experiences the region offers, but also by the exceptional accommodation options in the Prešov Region.

Dóm svätej Alžbety is an impressive structure that represents the city of Košice. This church is preeminent not only because it is the largest in Slovakia, but certainly also one of the most beautiful. Many a tourist, young or old, gazes at the Gothic cathedral in silent awe.

Dóm svätej Alžbety is a Roman Catholic church and serves as the parish church of the Farnosť svätej Alžbety in Košice. You will find it on Hlavná ulica in Slovakia's second-largest city, right in the old town of Košice. Its area covers a respectable 1,200 m². Construction of the cathedral began at the end of the 14th century and was completed at the beginning of the 15th century.

The church is dedicated to St. Elizabeth as the patron saint of the city of Košice. However, the original church that stood on this site, mentioned as early as the 11th century, was dedicated to St. Michael. It was rededicated to Elizabeth only after German settlement in Košice. Following the church's first fire in 1380, the decision was made to build a magnificent cathedral worthy of the medieval city at that time. The church is built in the Gothic style, but elements of the original Romanesque style can also be found here.

The medieval merchants and craftsmen of Košice not only contributed to the construction but also donated to it financially on a regular basis. The cathedral was built with the support of the ruler of the time, Sigismund of Luxembourg, and the Papal Curia. Over the centuries, it underwent several restorations due to war and fires. Today, Dóm svätej Alžbety has an outer length of 60 meters and a width of 36 meters. The main tower, also nicknamed Žigmundova veža, measures more than 59 meters. The tower houses bells and the mechanism of the large church clock.

Inside Dóm svätej Alžbety, you will find several altars. However, the most beautiful and precious one is unequivocally the main altar of St. Elizabeth. It is the only surviving medieval altar with two pairs of wings and a triple composition cycle of Gothic paintings, totaling 48 panel paintings. The church earned another "first" with its double spiral staircase, which is the oldest surviving one in Europe. It is assumed to have had a purely decorative character, as it is very narrow.

Dóm svätej Alžbety is open to the public. Masses are held here in Slovak and Hungarian, as well as in Latin. Guided tours of certain parts of the church, such as Žigmundova veža, Kaplnka svätého Michala, or Rákociho krypta, are available for a fee. Visiting the church when a concert by the Štátna filharmónia Košice or the Medzinárodný orgánový festival occasionally takes place is a truly unique experience.

In addition to its magnificent cathedral, Košice attracts visitors with other sights. We have prepared tips for trips in Košice on our portal. You will see for yourself that it is worth staying here longer. We offer accommodation in the center of Košice and accommodation near Dóm svätej Alžbety on our website. Whether you choose to spend your vacation in a luxury hotel or a comfortable apartment, you will surely find your pick with us.

A popular place among the residents of Prešov, where they can elevate their spirit or enjoy views of the surrounding countryside, is Kalvária v Prešove. It is located on a hill at an altitude of 265 m above sea level, on the western edge of the town of Prešov.

Prešovská Kalvária is a complex of Baroque chapels and a church. In the past, it was considered the 2nd most beautiful Calvary in the territory of the former Kingdom of Hungary (right after the Calvary in Banská Štiavnica). The first mention of it dates back to the 18th century. Among the oldest structures within the complex is the kaplnka Krista na Olivovej hore and a cross originating from 1721. This construction was carried out by the Jesuits, mainly thanks to the financial support of the town's residents and its nobility. The project was successfully completed only in 1893.

During a visit to this place, you can admire 14 chapels of the Stations of the Cross. You can also enjoy your time at the kaplnka Svätých schodov. You may also be intrigued by the catacombs, which served as tombs for priests. Or will you be enchanted by the beautiful little kostolík svätého Kríža instead? The church was completed in 1753 and is built in the Baroque style. Upon inspecting its interior, you will be captivated by the combination of colors and light, making it feel larger than it actually is. Your attention may be drawn to the altar, three crosses, and statues of the Virgin Mary, Mary Magdalene, and Saint John the Apostle. The interior of the church is meant to remind all believers of the real Golgotha. Directly at the Calvary, a cemetery is also located. The entire complex was solemnly consecrated in 1769.

Free access is available here for all visitors to the Calvary. If you arrive by car, park it in the parking lot, and in 3 minutes of walking, you will be directly in front of the church. Mothers with strollers appreciate the opportunity to reach this place along an asphalt path. Running enthusiasts will find what they are looking for thanks to the stairs, which they can conquer while running. Believers come here to pause and quiet down in prayer in a pleasant environment. Know that whoever has not enjoyed the views at this place, it is as if they have never been to Prešov. There is one of the best and most beautiful views of the entire town here, which since 2019 you can also enjoy thanks to an installed observation telescope.

Visiting the Calvary complex is worth it in every season of the year. Unique sunrises or a charming night sky can be observed from here. To fully enjoy the magic of this atmosphere, we can recommend accommodation near Kalvárii v Prešove. Perhaps, when looking from this spot, your attention will be caught by the tower of the Konkatedrála svätého Mikuláša, located on the main square in Prešov. Among the interesting places to go for a trip is also Caraffova väznica. You can treat your body to great relaxation in the pools or wellness center of the aquapark Delňa - Prešov. A stay in a salt cave also has beneficial effects on the body.

So that you can discover places in Prešov full of energy and with joy, we can give you only one piece of advice. Book the best accommodation in Prešov near Kalvaria Prešov right now. In the offer of accommodation facilities on the portal MegaUbytovanie, you can find everything from aparments Prešov to romantic and cozy cottages. It all depends only on your preferences as to which accommodation you choose from the catalog.

Did you know that Konkatedrála sv. Mikuláša is the oldest Gothic sacral building in Prešov? During the times of Austria-Hungary, it was considered one of the most beautiful and perfect hall churches. Its construction was authorized by Queen Elizabeth in 1347. The elevation of the church to a co-cathedral church was decided in 2008 by Pope Benedict XVI. Come and inspect the magnificent interior of one of the oldest and most significant churches in Slovakia for yourself. You will certainly also be pleased by the view from the 71 m high church tower.

The church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, bishop and miracle worker, whose feast day is celebrated by the Holy Church on December 6. Its foundations rest on an original older sacral structure from the 13th century on the site of an original German settlement. Kostol sv. Mikuláša was built as a single-nave structure with a raised polygonal presbytery. Its external dimensions reach a length of 54.7 m and a width of 34.45 m. It served as a Catholic parish church until 1531, when most burghers, along with priests, adopted the teachings of Martin Luther. From that time on, it became a Protestant church for citizens of German nationality for 140 years.

The change occurred after the town was occupied by the Habsburg army in 1671, when it once again became a church for Catholic believers for a time. Between 1682 and 1686, during the uprising of Imrich Tököly, it was returned to the Protestants once more. The church was returned to the Catholics in 1711 and has served as a Roman Catholic parish church ever since. Throughout its existence, the co-cathedral also experienced sad moments. It burned down six times and in 1918 was a silent witness to the Prešov Mutiny, during which 40 soldiers and 2 civilians were executed. Only a small part of the original Gothic-Renaissance furnishings has been preserved. Most was destroyed in fires or during religious unrest.

The dominant feature of the church is the main altar. It is a massive Baroque structure featuring a Gothic cabinet in the center with three niches and three sculptures. It is decorated with a Baroque canopy and side drapery. The author of this magnificent work is Prešov woodcarver Ján Weiss. The church also houses five other valuable altars in the Baroque and Renaissance-Baroque styles. Among the valuables are also Gothic sculptures of the Archangel Gabriel, the crucified Jesus Christ, and a small statue of Christ of Sorrows from the workshop of Master Paul of Levoča. In the church, you can also admire Gothic wall paintings on the northern side of the middle presbytery from the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Another jewel is the large five-part Renaissance-Baroque organ from 1634, which is decorated with gold ornamentation. At its top, a small statue of Saint Michael the Archangel is placed.

From 2010 to 2021, the co-cathedral underwent an extensive interior and exterior reconstruction. In addition to a general overhaul of the large organ, the stained glass windows were restored, a new paint job was done, new electrical wiring, lighting, and sound systems were installed. The sanctuary was modified, and the wall frescoes were restored. The roofing was also replaced, and the entire facade was restored. Currently, regular services and concerts take place in the church. You can treat yourself to the view from the tower every day during the summer season.

After visiting this remarkable sacral building, treat yourself to a stroll through the main square, where a multitude of various restaurants, pastry shops, and pubs are located. If it is a hot summer day, do not hesitate and indulge in relaxation in the pools at Kúpaliska Plaza Beach Solivar or Kúpaliska Sídlisko III. A great alternative can be regeneration in the Salt Cave, where, in addition to exceptionally valuable salt extracted from the Klodawa salt mine, you can also look forward to pleasant music and a simulation of a starry sky. If you want to discover other interesting attractions in Prešov, we recommend searching for accommodation near Konkatedrála sv. Mikuláša. Ubytovanie Prešov means stylish apartments and comfortably furnished guesthouses. The kam na výlet v Prešove page will certainly help you when putting together your holiday plan.

In the small village of Jasov, which administratively belongs to the Košice – okolie district, you will find a wonderful historical monument visited every year by a huge number of pilgrims and tourists. Premonštrátsky kláštor (Premonstratensian Monastery) is the largest Late Baroque building in Slovakia. Its history began back in 1228. Did you know that its premises house one of the most valuable libraries in Slovakia, containing approximately eighty thousand book volumes?

The sacred complex, dominated by Chrám sv. Jána Krstiteľa, together with the monastery garden, belongs among the most valuable monuments of historical and spiritual significance in Slovakia. Two symmetrically positioned monastery buildings stand on square footprints, between which is the structure of a single-nave church with two towers. Both wings of the monastery enclose courtyards with cloister gardens. The monastery has a symbolic 365 windows, matching the number of days in a year, 12 chimneys, symbolizing the twelve months, and 4 entrance gates, expressing the four seasons.

Among the most valuable parts of the interior of Kostol sv. Jána Krstiteľa is a collection of seven altars located along its perimeter. All the altarpieces came from the hands of the famous Austrian painter Johann Lucas Kracker. The main altar is dedicated to the patron saint of the church, and the altarpiece depicts the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. The ceilings of the sanctuary are decorated with beautiful frescoes featuring scenes from the Bible. The largest painting in terms of dimensions fills the third vaulted bay. Its subject, Preaching in the Desert, depicts the preaching activities of Saint John.

The valuable library is located in the northern extended part of the church. Today, its library collection consists of a summary of theological, natural science, philosophical, geographical, historical, and fiction books written mainly in Latin, Hungarian, and German. Part of the original collection is located in Slovenská národná galéria, Matica slovenská, and Slovenské technické múzeum.

The monastery also includes an extensive monastery garden, which is one of Slovakia's unique features. In the past, it served as a place for meditation. From a historical perspective, since 1802, Opátstvo Rádu Premonštrátov has been the only living abbey of old religious orders in Slovakia. The Premonstratensians have lived in Jasov for almost 850 years. In 1970, the monastery complex was declared a national cultural monument.

Currently, Holy Masses are regularly celebrated in Chrám sv. Jána Krstiteľa, and in the summer season, during set hours, you can also take a guided tour. During the off-season, it is necessary to arrange your visit in advance by phone. The Premonstratensian Order is currently working on opening the historical library to the public. After the tour, you can take a pleasant walk to the ruins of Jasovský hrad castle and to Jasovská jaskyňa cave, which is the oldest accessible cave in Slovakia.

After a day spent exploring Slovenský kras, relax in a cozy apartment. Just one click on the page accommodation in Jasov will display the full range of accommodation near Premonštrátsky kláštor. Over the following days, take a trip to the historical center of Košice and get to know the attractions hidden in the capital of Eastern Slovakia.