Nitra opens St. Francis shelter in former Nová Skalka quarry

A new tourist shelter, named St. Francis of Assisi Shelter, has officially opened in the former Nová Skalka quarry located under Zobor mountain in Nitra, Slovakia. The facility was inaugurated on September 7, 2026, with a ceremony including a Holy Mass led by emeritus bishop František Rábek and parish priest Martin Michalíček.

The shelter is situated near a hiking trail that forms part of the Cyril and Methodius Way. It is designed to provide a space for hikers, pilgrims, and visitors to rest, relax, or meditate in a natural setting. The project is part of a broader revitalization effort for the Nová Skalka quarry area, which has already seen the addition of fire pits and benches.

The opening ceremony was attended by local officials, including Nitra Mayor Marek Hattas, and representatives from various organizations such as the Nitra Diocese, the Nitra Community Foundation, and Foxconn. During the event, a wooden relief featuring St. Francis of Assisi was also unveiled.