The Church of St. Elizabeth, popularly called Blue Church for its color, is considered one of the most beautiful sights in Slovakia.
The church looks so impressive that it was honored to represent the country in the Mini-Europe park in Brussels. Located in the city center, close to the main square, it is easily accessible on foot or by public transport.
The aerial and unusual church in the Art Nouveau style appeared relatively recently, at the beginning of the 20th century. It is a functioning Catholic church that everyone can visit for free. On weekends, the church hosts solemn wedding ceremonies: its delicately shaped appearance and soft colors make it perhaps the most romantic temple in Europe.
The main architect of the church was the well-known Odon (Ödön) Lechner. He also authored the building of the Catholic gymnasium and the priest's house, which formed a single architectural ensemble together with the church.
Some people believe that Countess Szapary, who had a great influence in the city, had a hand in the creation of the church. Others claim that the first stone was laid personally by Emperor Franz Joseph in memory of his wife Elizabeth, who was brought to an early grave by the murderers' hands.
However, it is certainly known that the church was built on the site of a small chapel intended for schoolchildren. After the construction was completed, it became open to everyone.
The blue gingerbread building of the church is crowned with a fabulous oval tower almost 37 meters high with a massive cross, a dial, and bells. The walls and roof of the church are tiled with blue ceramic plates produced in the Slovak city of Modra. The church entrance is decorated with a mosaic icon of St. Elizabeth. Inside, it is no less beautiful than outside: the interior is decorated with Italian mosaics, as well as traceable oriental motifs.
Blue Church stands close to other sights of the city: Cakiho Palace, a monument dedicated to "unborn children", Laurentian Gate.