Banská Štiavnica: Discover a mining town and its old town

• Location: In the Štiavnické vrchy mountains in central Slovakia.
• Townscape: A historic town centre with squares, churches and two distinctive castles.
• Focus: The town’s development is closely linked to the mining of silver and other metals.
• Special feature: The town and technical monuments in its surroundings are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Start at Trojičné námestie and continue towards Radničné námestie. Between them are the late Gothic Church of St Catherine and the town hall; historic townhouses line the streets around the squares. On the hills opposite stand Starý zámok, the Old Castle, and Nový zámok, the New Castle. Both now also serve as museums. Travellers who enjoy comparing historic buildings can find more destinations among Slovakia’s castles and chateaux.

The town centre is part of Slovakia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. The mining history is especially easy to explore if you combine a walk around town with a museum visit. Slovakia’s museums range from local history to technical collections; you can also learn about the different eras in Slovakia’s history.

For centuries, silver and other metals made Banská Štiavnica an important mining town. The open-air Mining Museum combines exhibitions about mining with a visit underground. Check the official tourism website for Banská Štiavnica in advance to find out which areas are open and what preparation is required; follow the museum’s instructions when visiting the mine.

This lets you connect the town’s history with the technical monuments in the surrounding area, rather than limiting your visit to individual façades. Allow enough time for routes between the higher and lower parts of town, and wear shoes that are comfortable on uneven cobblestones.

For a first visit, choose one main focus: the old town and castles, or the old town and the mining museum. If you have more time, you can add other places in the region. Comparing it with Levoča brings together two very different historic townscapes; the overview of Slovakia’s regions can help you plan the broad stages of your trip. For several stops, a tour of Slovakia offers a suitable itinerary.

What makes Banská Štiavnica special?

The town combines a historic centre with a long mining history. Squares, churches, castles and technical monuments each tell a different part of this story.

Can I visit a mine in Banská Štiavnica?

The open-air Mining Museum also offers a chance to go underground. The areas open to visitors and conditions for taking part may change, so check with the museum before your visit.

How much time should I allow for the town?

Set aside several hours for a walk around the town centre. A museum visit or a descent into a mine gallery will take additional time.

Which places can I visit alongside Banská Štiavnica?

It depends on your route. Levoča and other historic towns make good additional cultural stops; check the distances based on your transport and daily itinerary.