The pilgrimage site of Šaštín-Stráže is located in the Senica district of the Trnava region. It is the national shrine of Our Lady of Sorrows, the patron saint of Slovakia. What can you see here?
The sacred history of Šaštín dates back to the 16th century when an image of the Virgin Mary was venerated near the Czobor family castle. Angelika Bakičová, née Czoborová, also prayed before this image, asking for the reformation of her husband. In 1564, her prayers were answered, and out of gratitude, she commissioned a statue of Our Lady of Sorrows. She placed this statue in a small chapel built on the site of her prayers. In the 18th century, specifically in 1732, the statue was declared miraculous, making Šaštín an important pilgrimage destination.
The heart of the site is the basilica of Our Lady of Sorrows
The dominant landmark of Šaštín, the basilica of Our Lady of Sorrows, was completed in 1751. It has witnessed several significant events. In 1987, Mother Teresa of Calcutta visited the basilica, and in 1990, the first national pilgrimage took place here. Five years later, Pope John Paul II honored the basilica with his presence, followed by Pope Francis in September 2021. With its richly decorated interior and grand organ, it is one of the most important basilicas in Slovakia. The complex also includes the former Pauline monastery, farm buildings, chapels, and a Pietà sculpture. The main pilgrimage to Our Lady of Sorrows, the patron saint of Slovakia, takes place around September 15.
Take a stroll at the nearby Gazárka recreation area
When visiting Šaštín, don’t miss a walk through the pine forest in the nearby Šaštín Gazárka resort. Here you’ll find a restaurant, several snack bars, and a well-maintained children’s playground near the entrance. If you enjoy hiking, you can explore various trails that lead through the picturesque Záhorie landscape. You can cool off or go boating on five lakes. In the surrounding area, you can visit the birthplace of Ján Hollý, Magic Ranch Čáry, the Millennium Cross in the village of Rybky, or the windmill in Holíč.