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Temples #2 in Bardejov

Basilica of St Giles

4.8 · 1,026 reviews
Solemn and historical
Basilica of St Giles, Radničné námestie 46, 085 01 Bardejov, Slovakia
Interesting facts
1

The interior contains eleven original late-Gothic altars, a collection recognized as unique in a European context.

2

The Basilica houses a rare, life-sized wooden sculpture of the Last Supper dating from the 15th century.

3

The 76-meter-high tower was constructed in stages, with the spire reaching its current form only after a late 19th-century restoration.

4

The church was designated a National Cultural Monument in 1970.

5

The relief of the 'St. Elizabeth of Hungary' altar is considered one of the finest examples of wood carving in the region.

Overview

The Basilica of St Giles is a late-Gothic structure situated on the northern side of Bardejov’s rectangular town square. It features eleven late-Gothic altars, forming one of the most complete sets in Europe. The building dates back to the 15th century, with construction beginning in 1464 after a previous church was damaged. Its interior houses a rare wooden relief of the Last Supper and a notable Calvary group from the early 16th century. In 2000, Pope John Paul II elevated the church to the rank of Minor Basilica. The tower serves as a prominent landmark and offers an observation deck overlooking the UNESCO-listed town conservation area. The church has undergone significant reconstructions, most notably in the late 19th century following a fire in 1878.

Photo spot

The center of the Radničné námestie square looking north to capture the basilica tower towering over the historic townhouses.

Insider tips

Climb the church tower for a panoramic view of the medieval square and the surrounding Beskydy mountains.

Check for local classical music concerts, as the acoustic environment is highly regarded.

Walk the full perimeter of the exterior to view the intricate gargoyles and buttress masonry.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to climb the tower in high-wind conditions, as it may be closed for safety.

Good to know

The observation tower may be closed during winter months or extreme weather conditions.

Etiquette

Maintain silence during religious services; ensure shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn for clear mountain air and pleasant temperatures during the tower climb.
Address
Basilica of St Giles, Radničné námestie 46, 085 01 Bardejov, Slovakia
49.294, 21.275
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleLate Gothic
Key featureEleven original late-Gothic altars

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn for clear mountain air and pleasant temperatures during the tower climb..

The center of the Radničné námestie square looking north to capture the basilica tower towering over the historic townhouses.

Close by you'll find Town Hall in Bardejov, Saris Museum, Historical exhibition, Šariš region museum, Church of St. John the Baptist.