Because Banská Štiavnica was a rich town in the times of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, it had to be strongly protected by soldiers.

The Salamander procession

Join in the festivities at the annual procession that combines heritage with entertainment.

The Salamander Procession consists of various scenes and figures, including the Ausus Miners, also known as 'light bearers' in the past. – © Marian Garai

Hussars on horses. These soldiers once protected the wealth of Banská Štiavnica. – © Marian Garai

A shepherd with a lizard walks at the head of the Salamander Procession, representing a legend about the foundation of Banská Štiavnica and the beginnings of mining in the region. – © Marian Garai

Slovak and foreign mining schools and mining associations are also part of the Salamander Procession. – © Marian Garai

Among various figures in the procession are 'Thin and Short', a couple called Pat and Patashon. – © Marian Garai

The 'permoniks' were underground spirits that the miners feared... but also believed could protect them against bad luck. – © Marian Garai

An incredible means of transport to and from Banská Štiavnica was a small narrow-railed train driven by a steam locomotive called Štiavnická Anča (Štiavnica's Anne). – © Marian Garai

A merry company representing a wedding procession is formed by the accordion player, wedding chairman, bride, groom, bridesmaids, best men, wedding parents, and witnesses. – © Marian Garai

The Salamander Procession consists of various scenes and figures, including the Ausus Miners, also known as 'light bearers' in the past. – © Marian Garai

Each year, the residents of Banská Štiavnica take to the streets to celebrate their history. If you’re in the town on the second Friday in September, you’ll be able to see this spectacle pass right by you.

The Salamander procession got its name from the small lizard. Imitating the movement of a salamander, the procession passes from one side of the street to another, lit by period lights in an impressive and effective performance.

A funeral of a professor or student of the Mining Academy. – © Marian Garai

The first half of the procession is historic. It is based on the ceremonial procession of the Mining and Forestry Academy on especially important occasions like the first going down to the mine, the funeral of a professor or a student, or the farewell of the valedictorians.

The people of Banská Štiavnica worked hard and were usually hungry, so bakers were very popular in town. – © Marian Garai

The second half, though, completes the picture of life in Banská Štiavnica after 1919 when the last academicians left the town after moving the school to Hungary. It is fun and entertaining, with figures, costumes, and witty performances put on for the amusement of the crowds.

Visit