Old Castle is one of the oldest buildings in Banska Stiavnica, it´s the jewel of mediaeval architecture. It documents the development of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque style.
The history of the castle complex begins with the period of the parish church of Virgin Mary in the beginning of the 13th century. There were changes and it was rebuilt in its final form in the 16th century to a frotress against the Turks. Last imporatant change came with the Baroque reconstruction of the bell tower with onion-domed roof.
In 19th century, part of the Old Castle served as icehouse for butchers, archive, library, gym and municipal police area. In 20th century the castle went through extensive construction works and after the last restoration these new permanent exhibitions were open to public.
