A medieval mining town in central Slovakia, known for its Gothic mint house that has produced coins since 1328 and remains active today.
In Kremnica, a medieval town in central Slovakia, you can mint your own coin at a 700-year-old mint, climb 127 stone steps for mountain views from a Gothic castle tower, or listen to organ concerts in a 15th-century church. The surrounding Kremnica Mountains have 85 kilometers of marked trails, while the local thermal springs maintain a constant temperature of 38°C year-round.
Medieval Castle Complex
From the town center, walk up to Kremnica's 13th-century castle with its three defensive bastions and thick stone walls. Inside, you'll find several museum exhibitions about local life and art. The Clock Tower, once the town hall, requires climbing 127 narrow stone steps, but rewards you with views across the red-tiled roofs to the Kremnica Mountains.
St. Catherine's Church and Music
The Gothic Church of St. Catherine dominates the main square with its 15th-century spire. Inside, look up at the painted arched ceiling and detailed stone carvings. During the summer Castle Organ Festival, musicians from across Europe perform on the church's historic organ, built in 1649.
World's Oldest Working Mint
Since 1328, the Kremnica Mint has produced coins in its building on the main square. Take a guided tour through the mint's museum to see the original Vulkan striking machines at work. You can create your own commemorative coin using traditional methods. Today, the mint produces euro coins for Slovakia and other European countries, continuing a tradition that has created over 21.5 million ducats.
Museums and Cultural Events
Walk through a medieval burgher house to explore the Museum of Coins and Medals, which explains how mining shaped Kremnica's development. The Museum of Skiing documents local winter sports achievements with equipment dating back to the 1920s. In August, comedians and satirists perform throughout town during the Kremnica Gags festival.
Mountain Activities and Wellness
Cross-country ski on groomed trails through the Kremnica Mountains in winter, or hike the marked paths in summer. At the Skalka Relax Center, swim in thermal pools filled with mineralized water at 38°C. The center's slightly radioactive springs are used for therapeutic treatments, and its facilities serve both recreational swimmers and athletes.
Main Square Architecture
Walk around Štefánikovo námestie to see medieval and baroque buildings with their original facades. In the square's center stands the baroque Trinity Pillar, while the mint occupies the northwestern corner. The new town hall, with its distinctive clock tower, lines the eastern side of the square.
