St. James Church, Levoča
Prešov Region
The Basilica of St. James in Levoča is a remarkable Gothic church dating back to the 14th century, located in the historic center of Levoča, Slovakia. It is renowned for housing the world's tallest wooden altar, standing at 18.62 meters, created by the workshop of Master Paul of Levoča and completed in 1517. The church is the second largest in Slovakia and boasts a wealth of preserved medieval furniture, art, and numerous Gothic altars. Its 19th-century neo-Gothic steeple, designed by Fridrich Muck, rises 70 meters and offers panoramic views of the town's historical center. The basilica contains a rich collection of frescoes, including the "Seven Virtues and Seven Vices" cycle and scenes from the legend of St. Dorothy, as well as painted epitaphs that provide unique insights into its history. The organ, originally built in 1622 by Hans Hummel and completed by Juraj Nitrovský, adds to the church's cultural significance. Recognized as a Slovak National Monument, it was declared a minor basilica by Pope Francis in 2015 and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing Levoča, Spiš Castle, and related cultural monuments.
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Astuce: Visit the Basilica of St. James during weekdays between April and October for the most extensive guided tour options. The church is closed on major holidays and certain winter dates. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended, especially in peak tourist seasons. The tower is open to visitors, offering panoramic views, so allocate extra time for this experience. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Contact the basilica via phone or email for detailed visitor information and tour reservations.
Faits intéressants
- •The main altar is the tallest wooden altar in the world, measuring 18.62 meters.
- •The basilica contains 18 altars, many created by Master Paul of Levoča and his workshop.
- •The church tower was historically used as a watchtower to alert the town of fires.
- •The organ was started by Hans Hummel, who died during construction, and finished by Juraj Nitrovský.
- •The church houses a unique cycle of frescoes depicting the Seven Virtues and Seven Vices from around 1385.
Histoire
Construction of the Basilica of St.
James began in the 14th century in what was then the Kingdom of Hungary.
The church became Protestant during the Reformation from 1544 but reverted to Catholicism later.
Its original medieval tower was damaged by lightning in the early 19th century and replaced by a neo-Gothic tower built between 1852 and 1870, possibly the first of its style in present-day Slovakia.
The church's famous main altar was completed in 1517 by Master Paul of Levoča.
The basilica was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009 and was declared a basilica minor by Pope Francis in 2015.
Guide du lieu
High Altar (Altar of St. James the Apostle)1507-1517
This altar, created by Master Paul between 1507 and 1517, is the centerpiece of the basilica. It features intricate sculptures and paintings based on Lucas Cranach's Passion cycle and includes statues of the Twelve Apostles dating back to circa 1390.
Neo-Gothic Tower1852-1870
Constructed between 1852 and 1870, this 70-meter tower replaced the original medieval tower damaged by lightning. Designed by Fridrich Muck, it was likely the first neo-Gothic tower in present-day Slovakia and offers panoramic views of Levoča's historic center.
Frescoes Cycle - Seven Virtues and Seven Vicescirca 1385
A remarkable series of frescoes dating from around 1385, depicting moral allegories of virtues and vices, adorning the church's interior walls.
Organ1622-1630
The current organ was begun in 1622 by Hans Hummel, who tragically died during its construction. It was completed by the Polish organ builder Juraj Nitrovský and remains a significant musical instrument within the basilica.
Contact
Téléphone: 0908 489 194