Wooden Churches of the Slovak part of the Carpathian Mountain Area in Slovakia

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2008
Size of heritage: 2.56 ha
- Buffer zone: 90 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 19,558°
Latitude: 49,336°

Summary

The Wooden Churches of the Slovak part of Carpathian Mountain Area inscribed on the World Heritage List consist of two Roman Catholic, three Protestant and three Greek Orthodox churches built between the 16th and 18th centuries. The property presents good examples of a rich local tradition of religious architecture, marked by the meeting of Latin and Byzantine cultures. The edifices exhibit some typological variations in their floor plans, interior spaces and external appearance due to their respective religious practices. They bear testimony to the development of major architectural and artistic trends during the period of construction and to their interpretation and adaptation to a specific geographical and cultural context. Interiors are decorated with paintings on the walls and ceilings and other works of art that enrich the cultural significance of the properties.

Location on Map

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Wooden Churches of the Slovak part of the Carpathian Mountain Area

The Wooden Churches of the Slovak part of the Carpathian Mountain Area is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Slovakia. It encompasses a collection of wooden churches that are scattered across the Prešov, Žilina, Banská Bystrica, and Košice Regions. These churches are not only architectural marvels but also hold great historical and cultural significance.

History

The wooden churches in this area date back to the 16th and 17th centuries when the region was under the influence of the Kingdom of Hungary. These churches were built by the local population, primarily by the Carpathian Germans and the Lemkos, who were skilled craftsmen in woodwork. The churches were constructed using traditional techniques and materials, reflecting the cultural and religious practices of the communities.

During the Reformation period, the wooden churches played a crucial role in the preservation of the Catholic faith. They served as places of worship and centers for community gatherings. Despite facing various challenges, including fires and natural disasters, many of these churches have survived to this day, standing as testaments to the resilience and craftsmanship of the local communities.

Current State

The Wooden Churches of the Slovak part of the Carpathian Mountain Area are currently well-preserved and continue to be actively used for religious purposes. These churches are not only important religious sites but also attract tourists from around the world due to their unique architectural style and historical significance.

There are several notable churches within this World Heritage site. One of them is the Church of St. Francis of Assisi in Hervartov, which is considered one of the oldest and most valuable wooden churches in Slovakia. It features a Gothic-Renaissance style and is adorned with beautiful frescoes from the 15th century.

Another remarkable church is the Church of St. Nicholas in Bodružal, known for its distinctive shape and intricate wooden carvings. The church in Kežmarok is also noteworthy, with its Baroque design and a stunning interior featuring ornate altars and paintings.

Efforts have been made to ensure the preservation and conservation of these wooden churches. The Slovak government, in collaboration with local communities and international organizations, has implemented various measures to protect and maintain these cultural treasures. These include regular inspections, restoration projects, and educational programs to raise awareness about the significance of these churches.

The Wooden Churches of the Slovak part of the Carpathian Mountain Area are not only a testament to the architectural skills of the local communities but also serve as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the region. Their inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list ensures their protection and recognition on a global scale, allowing future generations to appreciate and learn from these remarkable structures.

Hotels and places to stay

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Hotel Altis

Address
Distance: 3,2 mi
Oravska Priehrada 200
029 01 Námestovo
Slovakia

Time Information

Checkout: 10:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

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Arman

Address
Distance: 2,6 mi
Nová doba 1000
027 43 Nizná nad Oravou
Slovakia

Time Information

Checkout: 10:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 6:00 - 23:00
Weekend: 6:00 - 23:00

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