Medieval Church Excavated in Slovakia

News October 3, 2024

Aerial photo of excavation, Ostrá Lúka, Slovakia
Slovak Academy of Sciences
SHARE:

OSTRÁ LÚKA, SLOVAKIA—According to a report in The Slovak Spectator, a geophysical survey conducted at the site of the Church of the Epiphany in central Slovakia’s town of Ostrá Lúka has revealed the floor plan of a medieval structure measuring more than 55 feet long and 28 feet wide. The town was situated on a trade route where a toll station was established in 1393. Archaeologist Ján Beljak said that the investigation identified the church’s thirteenth-century rectangular nave and presbytery, and a sacristy that was added in the fourteenth century. Excavation of the site uncovered multiple entrances to the building and a well-preserved crypt with a barrel vault. Beljak and his team also found a later fortification wall that enclosed the church and its cemetery. To read about Slovakia's Roman history, go to "Around the World: Slovakia."

  • Features September/October 2024

    Hunting for the Lost Temple of Artemis

    After a century of searching, a chance discovery led archaeologists to one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient Greek world

    Read Article
    Courtesy Swiss School of Archaeology in Greece
  • Digs & Discoveries September/October 2024

    A Taíno Idol's Origin Story

    Read Article
    Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography Turin
  • Digs & Discoveries September/October 2024

    Toothy Grin

    Read Article
    © SHM/Lisa Hartzell SHM 2007-06-13 (CC BY 2.5 SE)
  • Digs & Discoveries September/October 2024

    Seahenge Sings

    Read Article
    Homer Sykes/Alamy Stock Photo