Parish Bastion in Banská Bystrica - part of the Banská Bystrica city fortifications

In 1589, stone walls were erected in Banská Bystrica to defend against Turkish raids and mining revolts. The city fortification comprised several entrance gates and 18 bastions. Over time, the names of these bastions changed according to the guilds involved in their construction. The Parish Bastion, situated next to the Slovak Church (also known as the Church of the Holy Cross) in the heart of Banská Bystrica, is one of the few preserved from the original eighteen built for the city's defence against Turkish invasions. Constructed before 1479, it has undergone significant alterations in more recent reconstructions, losing its original appearance. Interestingly, during the 1940s (reportedly from 1943 to 1949), puppet theatre performances were held on its first floor. Adjacent to the Parish Bastion stands the original fortification, offering a glimpse of the city's towering fortifications. For a closer view of the Parochial Bastion, visitors can explore the grounds of the Evangelical Cemetery near Matej's House.

The Parish Bastion forms an integral part of the city's extensive fortification system, which was constructed over several decades. Upon completion, the walls spanned more than 3,700 meters and were fortified with eighteen bastions and five main gates. While the fortification of the city castle played a pivotal role, the protection of the city's core was equally significant and operated autonomously. The earliest records of the city walls, extending beyond the castle area, date back to the latter half of the 15th century. By the end of the 16th century, the entire perimeter of the city was enclosed by walls. Today, remnants of the original fortification system are still visible in various parts of the city.