Basilica of the Visitation of Mary, Staré Hory, Slovakia Verified listing

Basilica of the Visitation of Mary, Staré Hory, Slovakia

The Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Bazilika navštívenia Panny Márie) is located in Staré Hory, a village in Slovakia’s Banská Bystrica Region. Nestled in the Staré Hory Mountains, it lies between the Veľká Fatra and Low Tatra ranges, offering both spiritual and scenic appeal.

Pilgrimages to Staré Hory began during the 15th century, when local devotion to the Virgin Mary grew stronger. In 1448, a man named Michal Konigzberg constructed the first church, marking the beginning of its religious legacy. Over time, the building underwent several reconstructions in 1499, 1589, 1722, and 1850, when two side naves were added.

Nearby stands Studnička, a sacred well tied to a well-known legend. During the 17th century, when tensions between faith communities were high, villagers hid a statue of Mary in the well for protection. In 1711, they brought it back to the church, and the well became a cherished place of pilgrimage.

In 1780, Pope Pius VI granted indulgences to those visiting Staré Hory, further boosting its importance. Later, in 1942, the well was formally blessed and recognized as a holy site by the Church.

Finally, in 1990, the church was elevated to the status of minor basilica. During this special occasion, over 12,000 pilgrims gathered to celebrate the honor.

Even today, the basilica continues to welcome visitors from across Slovakia, combining centuries of tradition with peaceful natural surroundings.

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