Skalka is known as the oldest pilgrimage site in Slovakia. The site comprises two objects – Malá Skalka and Veľká Skalka. Malá Skalka is a small two-tower church built in the Romanesque style. First mention of the church dates back to 1208 when the building was dedicated to St. Benedict. In the woods, just opposite the church, is a Calvary.
Veľká Skalka comprises an antique monastery, a small church built in 1224, and the original cave of hermits representing the oldest accessible cave in Slovakia. The cave is linked to a story about the life of St. Benedict, a hermit who was attacked by thieves while praying. As he immediately began asking God for help, he touched the rock and it opened up. Today, his hand’s imprint may still be found on the rock at the cave’s entrance.
Educational Trail of Malá – Veľká Skalka in the length of 2.2 km that leads through the woods extends between Malá Skalka and the monastery at Veľká Skalka. Every July, thousands of believers from all over Slovakia and abroad meet at Skalka to make a pilgrimage and celebrate the memory of St. Andrew – Svorad and Benedict.
DISTANCE FROM TRENČÍN: 6 km
HOW TO GO THERE: From Trenčín through Zamarovce, direction Nemšová. The Monastery Veľká Skalka is situated from the church Malá Skalka nearly 1 km further on the left side. You can go along the road or across the forest. By bus: from Trenčín to Skalka nad Váhom, bus stop at Malá Skalka is on demand.
GPS: 48°54’22” N, 18°04’27” E
OPENING HOURS: see www.putnickemiestoskalka.sk
ENTRANCE FEE: voluntary
CONTACT
Guided tours:
Katarína Darvašová
Tel: +421 (0)910 842 824
Email: sprievodca@putnickemiestoskalka.sk
Administrator of Malá and Veľká Skalka
o. Štefan Bučo, farár, rektor Diecéznej svätyne
Email: knaz@putnickemiestoskalka.sk
Tel: +421 (0)32 6584 240
WEB: www.putnickemiestoskalka.sk
GALLERY
EVENTS AT MALÁ AND VEĽKÁ SKALKA
