Banskoštiavnický 3D Model Mesta

About

The Banskoštiavnický 3D Model Mesta is one of the most engaging ways to understand the unique urban landscape of Banská Štiavnica, a town whose steep terrain and terraced streets can be difficult to grasp from ground level. The model presents the entire historic centre in precise three‑dimensional detail, capturing its churches, castles, mining structures, and characteristic hillside layout. It is especially valuable because Štiavnica’s architecture is tightly interwoven with its mining past, and the model shows this relationship clearly. Inside, visitors can study miniature versions of the Old Castle, New Castle, Calvary, Holy Trinity Square, and the dense network of burgher houses that climb the slopes. One of the most interesting features is the accurate representation of the town’s volcanic topography, which shaped everything from street patterns to defensive structures. The model also highlights the system of tajchy—artificial lakes and channels—by showing their placement in relation to the town. Lighting effects help emphasise key buildings and viewpoints, making it easy to understand how Štiavnica developed over centuries. For anyone exploring the town, the 3D model offers a perfect introduction, revealing the complexity and beauty of this UNESCO‑listed landscape in a single glance.

Banská Štiavnica Slovakia

Location

The Banskoštiavnický 3D Model Mesta (Banská Štiavnica 3D City Model) is located in the heart of Banská Štiavnica, Slovakia, just a few steps from the largest moving nativity scene (Najväčší pohyblivý Betlehem) at Radničné námestie (City Hall Square) in the old Town Hall. The main city center in the model measures approximately 6 × 4.5 meters and features nearly 360 buildings with approximately 5,600 windows, almost 800 trees, and a total of around 1,000 figurines, of which about 350 are moving. The model is made from special cardboard and various types of wood including linden, cherry, and walnut, and was created by craftsman Chovan over seven years. The model is the main attraction of a new gallery that was created in the immediate vicinity of the Betlehem nativity scene. In another room of the gallery, other parts of the city are being developed, including Štiavnica schools, the botanical garden, and old houses in the direction of Glanzenberg. Nearby tourist attractions include the Banská Štiavnica Nativity Scene (Banskoštiavnický Betlehem), one of the largest wooden moving nativity scenes in Slovakia with over 800 detailed scenes showcasing mining traditions. The Old Castle (Starý zámok), a medieval tower from the 13th century now serving as a mining museum, is very close by.