states: [slovakia]
category: cultural
year: 1993
location: Town and District of Banská Štiavnica, Region of Banská Bystrica
region: Europe and North America
latitude/longitude: 48.4611100000, 18.9000000000
unesco id: 618
world heritage site: 618
Copyright © 1992 - 2025 UNESCO/World Heritage Centre. All rights reserved.
Banska Stiavnica, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Slovakia, is a well-preserved medieval mining town renowned for its historical and cultural significance. Established in the 13th century, it became a prominent center for gold and silver mining, driving innovations in mining technology and education, including the founding of one of the world’s first technical universities in 1762. The town features a picturesque ensemble of Gothic and Baroque architecture, with highlights like the Old Castle, Trinity Square, and the open-air Mining Museum, reflecting its rich heritage and economic past. Today, it stands as a testament to Slovakia’s contributions to industrial history and urban development.