Šaštín-Stráže: Pilgrimage, Cultural Heritage and Gazárka

Religious history, historical landmarks and the Gazárka recreation area offer different themes to explore on a trip to Šaštín-Stráže. If you are looking for a hotel in Šaštín-Stráže, you can first decide whether pilgrimage, cultural heritage or activities at the lakes and on the trails should be the focus of your trip.

Pilgrimage and the Basilica

The Basilica of the Seven Sorrows of the Virgin Mary in Šaštín is Slovakia’s national shrine. Construction of the present-day basilica began in 1736; in 1964, Pope Paul VI elevated the shrine to the status of a minor basilica. Šaštín is also a pilgrimage site where thousands of worshippers from Slovakia and Moravia gather each year. This gives trip planning two distinct focal points: the history of the architecture and the Church, on the one hand, and a recurring annual pilgrimage tradition, on the other.

Historical traces in the town

Šaštín’s central square has a triangular layout, and several historic houses with decorated façades shape its appearance. The Calvary dates from the late 18th century and is unusual in that it stands on flat ground rather than on a hill. The synagogue dates from 1852 and is one of Slovakia’s older synagogues; its condition has deteriorated. One of Slovakia’s largest Jewish monuments is located in the Jewish cemetery. The town’s industrial history is also represented: the first Hungarian textile manufactory, known as the “Kartúnka,” was founded in the former manor house. The historical themes therefore extend beyond religious buildings: the synagogue and cemetery point to Jewish history, while the Kartúnka recalls the textile manufactory.

Lakes, forest trails and cycling

The Gazárka recreation area consists of five lakes formed after sand extraction. The lakes have developed sandy beaches with gently sloping access to the water; seasonal use may vary. Pedal boats and boating are available in the area; availability may be seasonal. Fishing competitions are also held every year; dates may change. If a competition is important to your trip, check the date in advance. Forest roads and trails allow hikers and cyclists to explore sights in the surrounding area and further afield.

A cycling route just under 3.5 kilometres long leads in Šaštín-Stráže from the Basilica of the Seven Sorrows of the Virgin Mary to a cycling route running along the Myjava River. It is located within the cadastral area of the town of Šaštín-Stráže and was built and opened for use in 2021. Unlike the forest trails in Gazárka, this route has a specified starting point, connection and length; the trails there offer a way to explore sights in the surrounding area. If you plan to use the cycling route, check current route information before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Hradište Pod Vrátnom, Sobotište, Kúty, Jablonica, Senica, Smrdáky, Podbranč, Šajdíkove Humence

For the overview of the wider area: Senica.