BARDEJOV, SLOVAKIA 49°17'N, 21°16'E
14th - 15th c. AD
Slovak

SITE
 Remarkable houses and monuments, constructed in Late Gothic and Early Renaissance styles, characterize the exceptionally well-preserved medieval town of Bardejov. Its fortifications, city plan and building design typify urban planning of the Middle Ages in Central Europe. Maintenance of these structures, however, is essential to the preservation of this unique town. The fortifications, which began to deteriorate after the 18th century, are gradually undergoing repairs and reconstruction work.
The first written documents referring to Bardejov date to AD 1247. By the 14th century the town was beginning to flourish as a major trading and mercantile centre, reaching its peak of productivity and economic growth by the 15th century. By that time the town had approximately 500 houses and 3000 residents, most of whom were merchants and skilled craftsmen. Many of the buildings still standing today were built during this period of intense productivity.

The town's fortifications, which include walls, gates and bastions, are among the most elaborate in Slovakia. The centre of town is dominated by an extensive, oblong-shaped market square. At the north end of the square is the Roman Catholic Church of St. Egidius. Construction of the church probably began in the 14th century and was eventually completed by 1464. The church is one of the finest examples of Late Gothic architecture in the country. The interior is graced with numerous Late Gothic and Early Renaissance pieces, including eleven outstanding wing altars, splendid frescos, and a set of patron's benches from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Near the Church of St. Egidius, towards the centre of the square, stands the Town Hall, the first Renaissance edifice built in Slovakia. The building combines elements of Late Gothic architectural design - a style that was fading out at the time - with Italian Early Renaissance motifs. The Town Hall is a two-storey building with a regular oblong ground plan, but its brilliance can be found in the architectural details. The building is graced with richly decorated gables, a high saddle roof and beautifully constructed portals, entrance bays and staircases.

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