Bardejov Town Hall Square
Prešov Region
Bardejov Town Hall Square, located in the Prešov Region of Slovakia, is a well-preserved medieval public square that served historically as the city's marketplace. The rectangular square, measuring approximately 260 by 80 meters, is surrounded on three sides by 46 three-story burgher houses built on narrow medieval plots. These buildings showcase architectural styles ranging from Gothic and Renaissance to Baroque and Secession. The northern edge is dominated by the Gothic Basilica of St Giles. The centerpiece of the square is the Town Hall, a Gothic-Renaissance structure constructed beginning in 1505, which now serves as a national cultural monument and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The square has been the focal point of social and economic life since medieval times, hosting fairs granted by royal privileges dating back to the 14th century. The Šariš Museum, housed within the Town Hall, offers exhibitions on regional history and culture. The square’s harmonious urban layout, historical buildings, and cultural significance make it a unique example of Central European medieval urbanism.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Bardejov Town Hall Square is during spring and summer when outdoor activities and fairs are most vibrant. Visitors are advised to check opening hours of the Šariš Museum inside the Town Hall and consider purchasing tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Comfortable footwear is recommended due to cobblestone surfaces. Guided tours can enrich the experience by providing historical context.
Faits intéressants
- •The square is surrounded by 46 historic burgher houses, many built on narrow medieval plots characteristic of the period.
- •The Basilica of St Giles in the square contains a unique collection of eleven Gothic winged altars.
- •The Town Hall building combines Gothic foundations with Renaissance architectural features, including a bay window added by Masters Alexius and Ján of Prešov.
- •The square was historically the site of royal fairs, with privileges granted as early as 1320, extended in duration by subsequent kings.
- •The Šariš Museum inside the Town Hall survived both World Wars with minimal losses to its collection.
Histoire
The origins of Bardejov Town Hall Square date back to the early 14th century when the city began to develop its urban center.
In 1352, King Louis I of Hungary ordered the city to be fortified with walls, which coincided with the establishment of a planned street network converging on the square.
The Town Hall's construction started in 1505 on Gothic foundations and was later expanded with Renaissance elements.
Royal privileges in the 14th and 15th centuries allowed the city to hold extended fairs in the square, reinforcing its role as a commercial hub.
In the early 20th century, the Town Hall was adapted to house the Šariš Museum, which opened to the public in 1907 and has since preserved the cultural heritage of the region.
Guide du lieu
Town Hall1505
A Gothic-Renaissance building started in 1505, serving as the administrative and cultural heart of Bardejov. It houses the Šariš Museum with exhibitions on local history and culture.
Šariš Museum1903 (museum establishment), 1907 (public opening)
Located inside the Town Hall, the museum features collections documenting the history, nature, and society of the Šariš region from the Stone Age to modern times.
Basilica of St GilesMid-14th century
A Gothic religious building on the northern side of the square, notable for its interior featuring eleven Gothic winged altars, a rare and significant art collection.
Burgher House No. 13 (Gantzaugh House)1556 (Renaissance rebuild), 1778 (facade mural)
Originally a Gothic building rebuilt in Renaissance style in 1556 and 1778, featuring Baroque windows and Rococo murals. It bears the coat of arms of the Czebner family and serves as the administrative headquarters of the Šariš Museum.
Humanistic Gymnasium1538
A Renaissance building of the former city humanistic school, established in 1538, located near the Basilica of St Giles, representing the educational heritage of Bardejov.