In the centre of Žilina's historic core sits Mariánske Námestie (Mariánske Square), a beautiful plaza that dates back to at least the 13th century. It encompasses Renaissance merchant houses, a Baroque church and Gothic cellars. The central location makes it a great starting point from which to explore the rest of the city, but before you do, tour its captivating sites.
Stroll around the edge of the square to see its old burgher houses. These houses sit on the original cellars from the medieval era and were once the homes of the richest families in the city. Stop by the old town hall building, the seat of the city’s mayor. On one of its façades is a relief of Žilina's coat of arms from 1683.
Located on the west side of the square is the Church of St. Paul the Apostle, an 18th-century building with a Baroque façade and two symmetrical towers. Venture inside to investigate the brightly colored interior and its religious artworks. Next to the church is a Jesuit monastery.
More religious landmarks, such as the Holy Trinity Cathedral, can be found within walking distance of the square. Beside this church is the 151-feet (46-metre) Burian’s Tower, a Renaissance structure erected in the 16th century.
Head to the middle of the square for a better look at the Pillar of the Virgin Mary. The statue commemorates Žilina's reconversion to Catholicism in the 18th century. The statue is perched on a stand that features a relief of St. Florian, the patron saint of fireman. Other sites to check out in the square include the two wells.
Return in the evening and dine in one of the restaurants and cafés, many of which inhabit the old burgher houses. Some of the other centuries-old homes have been converted into crafts and clothes shops.
Situated in the historic centre of Žilina, Mariánske Square is very easy to find. It is just a 10-minute walk from the city’s main train station.
