Piarist Church of St Francis Xavier
Kostol sv. Františka Xaverského
A 17th-century Jesuit Baroque church on the north end of the square, its interior covered with trompe-l'œil ceiling paintings. The illusory dome is breathtaking.
The church was built by the Jesuits between 1653 and 1657, later passing to the Piarist Order. Its twin-towered facade faces Peace Square. The highlight of the interior is the ceiling painting by the Italian artist Christoph Tausch, which depicts a convincing dome on a flat ceiling. The three-dimensional effect is strongest when viewed from certain spots. The adjoining monastery buildings once housed a school. The church is open to visitors outside of Mass times, sometimes with a small admission fee, and often hosts organ concerts.
Opening hours
Approx. 10:00–17:00 (no visits during mass)
Nearby sights
- Town Tower (Lower Gate)
- Trenčín Synagogue
- Peace Square (Mierové námestie)
- Parish Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary
- M. A. Bazovský Gallery
- Trenčín Castle
- Roman Inscription of Trenčín
- Veľká Skalka Monastery