Pilgrimage sites harbor secrets and peace, which we often seek in today’s hurried times. They boast ancient churches, chapels, and calvaries, often located in beautiful natural surroundings. You can explore them during a pilgrimage or venture to them privately to find a moment of peace. Let’s introduce 10 favorite pilgrimage sites in Slovakia from east to west.
Levoča
Levoča, a town with the majestic Basilica of St. James and a tall Gothic tower, has been the jewel of Spiš for centuries. The Basilica houses the magnificent Gothic altar by Master Paul, the tallest wooden altar in the world. It is one of the oldest pilgrimage sites in Slovakia. Every year, pilgrims from all over Slovakia journey to the Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary on Marian Hill during the first Sunday of July. The summit of Marian Hill also offers the most beautiful view of Levoča – we recommend experiencing it firsthand!
Šaštín
Šaštín is known for its Basilica of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, which has been the center of Marian devotion in Slovakia since 1736. Pilgrimages to Šaštín are associated with the legend of the miraculous apparition of the Virgin Mary. There is also a wooden statue here, believed to perform miracles. The national pilgrimage of Slovakia to the patroness of Slovakia – Our Lady of Sorrows – has been officially held since 1732 when the statue of Our Lady of Sorrows was declared miraculous. Approximately 20,000 believers visit Šaštín annually during the national pilgrimage, culminating on the feast day of the patroness of Slovakia on September 15.
Ľutina
In Ľutina, a picturesque village near Svidník, you will find a modern pilgrimage church where frequent prayers for healing take place. The Basilica of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos in Ľutina was built in 1908. About 800 meters from it is Ľutina Hill, the site of the apparition of St. Nicholas to Zuzana Fekete. It is a place where thousands of believers gather annually for the main pilgrimage and various liturgical and prayer celebrations. Besides the basilica, there are also 4 chapels on Ľutina Hill, surrounded by greenery.
Dechtice
Dechtice, a small village in the heart of Záhorie, became famous due to the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to a group of children in the 1990s. These apparitions attracted attention not only from Slovaks but also from people around the world. In the center of the village stands the Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria, where, in addition to regular masses, international pilgrimages are held. Additionally, the village is home to the Chapel of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, a pilgrimage site by the cross, and the Church of All Saints, known locally as the Rotunda. In the center of the village, there is also a drinking spring from which believers can draw water.
Skalka near Trenčín
Skalka near Trenčín is a true oasis of peace. The monastery complex stands on the site where the saints Andrew-Svorad and Benedict lived. This picturesque location amidst nature offers visitors not only spiritual renewal but also the opportunity for walks in the surrounding greenery. The pilgrimage site consists of two objects – the Diocesan Sanctuary of St. Andrew-Svorad and Benedict on the so-called Small Skalka and the so-called Big Skalka – the remains of the Benedictine abbey from 1224. In the depths of the abbey on Big Skalka, there is also Benedict’s cave. The place has an amazing genius loci, and visiting it will make you feel as if you were traveling back in time.
Marianka
Marianka is the oldest Marian pilgrimage site in Slovakia, dating back to the 14th century. Pilgrims come here to visit the Basilica of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, where a merciful statue of the Virgin Mary is located. Believers and tourists alike head to the forest spring every week. The pleasant forest environment is perfect for an uplifting walk.
Rajecká Lesná
You may not have known, but Rajecká Lesná is home to a unique wooden nativity scene, one of the largest in Europe. Pilgrimages have been organized in the village since 1767. Besides the basilica, be sure to visit the calvary with the Stations of the Cross and the miraculous statue of Our Lady Queen of Angels. The calvary is a very pleasant place surrounded by forest on both sides.
Kláštor pod Znievom
Pilgrimages to Kláštor pod Znievom were established by the Jesuits to promote devotion to the Virgin Mary in the 17th century. Today, there is a church and monastery, which now serves as the headquarters of the social enterprise Good Shepherd. It is a refuge for people whose lives did not afford them as much as others. It is led by Father Vladimír Maslák. The calvary complex was built in the early 18th century. If you are in Kláštor pod Znievom, do not miss a visit to Zniev Hill, which offers beautiful views.
Oščadnica
In Oščadnica, you will find a calvary, a popular pilgrimage site in Kysuce. It was built from 1946 to 1948 as a thanksgiving for the fact that no one from the village died during the battles on the top of Veľká Rača in 1945. Pilgrimages are held here on the occasion of the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. A very beautiful place for contemplation is also the Chapel at Haladej, which you will find below the peak of Veľká Rača.
Hora Butkov
And finally, Hora Butkov is home to a relatively new pilgrimage church, offering an unforgettable view of the surrounding countryside. It is located near the village of Ladce in the Ilava district on the edge of the Strážovské vrchy. It is a sought-after place for meditation and spiritual renewal. It is the youngest pilgrimage site in Slovakia.
Each different, each unique
Each of these places in Slovakia offers something unique, whether it’s the stories told about them, the spiritual message they offer, or the natural beauty that surrounds them. They offer an opportunity to seek answers – whether alone or in communion with other believers.