A Modern Landmark and Its Architectural Design
The foundations of the Church of Divine Mercy, located in the Západ residential area in Spišská Nová Ves but territorially belonging to the Smižany parish, were laid in the autumn of 1996. A striking architectural feature of the church consists of its two 38-meter monolithic towers, topped with single-armed crosses. With its architecture, technological solutions, and furnishings, this church ranks among the most modern and functional buildings of contemporary sacred architecture in Slovakia.
Unique Artworks in the Interior
The main dominant feature of the entire interior is situated in the space between the towers—a monumental green cross made of layered glass and stainless steel. Standing 5.6 meters tall with a span of 3.6 meters, this exceptional work is considered by its designers to be the largest glass cross in the world placed within a sacred space. The prominent green altar is crafted from the same modern combination of layered glass and stainless steel.
Below the glass cross rests a dignified tabernacle created from golden onyx and brass. On the left side of the sanctuary, a life-sized image of the Merciful Jesus enhances the spiritual atmosphere of the space, serving as the focal point of devotion for visiting pilgrims.
The Diocesan Shrine and Precious Relics
A significant milestone in the history of this church occurred on April 18, 2009, when the then Diocesan Bishop of Spiš, Monsignor František Tondra, solemnly consecrated the altar and the church itself. On the occasion of its consecration, the church was officially declared the Diocesan Shrine of Divine Mercy. Contributing to the profound spiritual experience of visiting this pilgrimage site is the presence of precious relics of three great apostles of Divine Mercy—Saint Faustina Kowalska, Saint Vincent Pallotti, and Saint John Paul II. The church is spiritually cared for by the Pallottine Fathers from the Society of the Catholic Apostolate, who administer the Smižany parish.
A Unique Exhibition of Papal Gifts
In the shrine and the adjacent religious-pastoral center, an exceptional exhibition of papal gifts is open to the public following Holy Masses. These are precious items from the Vatican received by the pope, the now Saint John Paul II, during his numerous apostolic journeys. The Holy Father personally donated a portion of these gifts specifically to the Pallottines. The exhibition, which the religious order respectfully manages, is the only one of its kind in all of Slovakia in terms of its scope and focus.
