Prešov Calvary It is a Baroque religious complex situated on a hill on the western outskirts of Prešov. The Calvary in Prešov was once considered the second most beautiful in the whole of Hungary – second only to that in Banská Štiavnica – and to this day remains one of the city’s most significant historical and spiritual landmarks, offering a stunning view of Prešov.
The History of the Prešov Calvary
The Prešov Calvary was established in the early 18th century through the work of the Jesuits during the period of recatholisation, on the initiative of the Society of the Dying Christ. Construction of the first religious buildings began in 1720, although some of the Stations of the Cross chapels were still being built as late as the 19th century. The first to be consecrated, in the autumn of 1721, was the Chapel of Christ on the Mount of Olives and the cross.
The dominant feature of Kalvária is the Baroque Church of the Holy Cross dating from 1753. The construction was overseen by the Jesuit priest František Perger, also known as the architect of the Banská Štiavnica Calvary. It was funded by the town and donations from the townspeople and the local nobility. The entire Calvary complex was not completed until 1893.
What makes up the Calvary complex
In addition to the Church of the Holy Cross, the complex comprises the fourteen chapels of the Stations of the Cross, the Chapel of the Holy Stairs, the catacombs and the adjacent cemetery. The Chapel of the Holy Stairs was modelled on the Roman Chapel of Sancta Scala at the Lateran Basilica. In the past, the catacombs were used for the burial of priests, and in the adjacent cemetery – reserved for prominent benefactors of the Church – you can still find artistically valuable aristocratic and bourgeois crypts.
The Present and Renewal
The entire Calvary complex has been restored and refurbished on several occasions in the past. Construction, restoration and conservation work is currently underway on a number of buildings. A telescope is available for visitors within the Calvary grounds, through which they can enjoy the view of the town.
Practical information
- Location: Slávičia Street, on the western outskirts of Prešov
- Access: The Calvary site is open to the public and is ideal for a stroll, a day out or a spiritual visit
- Outlook: From the hill, there is a lovely view of Prešov and the surrounding area
The Prešov Calvary is also a thriving place of pilgrimage – every September, the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is celebrated here.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
Map
Gallery
Information
Prešov Calvary It is one of Prešov’s most significant historical and spiritual sites. It is situated on a hill above the town and consists of a series of chapels marking the Stations of the Cross and the Church of the Holy Cross.
You can get to Calvary on foot, by car or by public transport. There are parking facilities in the vicinity, from where you can continue on to the Calvary with a short walk. From the centre of Prešov, you can also use Public transport services heading to this part of the city and then continue on foot.
A pleasant walk leads to Calvary, during which you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and views of Prešov. It is a popular spot for a stroll, a rest and learning about the town’s history.
The Prešov Calvary is a great choice for visitors who want to combine history, architecture, spiritual atmosphere and pleasant surroundings.
