The wooden chapel in Staškov - Jelitov was built as early as 1888. In 1937 it was replaced by a brick chapel, which has been serving to the believers up to now.
The chapel is dedicated to the mother of the Virgin Mary – St. Ann, who is also the patron of mothers, wives and advocate for being blessed and for giving birth to a healthy baby. All of this carries certain symbolism.
Ann and her husband Joachim were in a childless marriage. Their daughter was born rather late only after 40 days of Joachim´s praying and fasting in the mountains. After the prayers, an angel appeared to them saying the words answering their prayers.
According to the Christian Iconography, St. Ann is usually figured in a long dress with her head veiled. The attributes describing her include the book as a symbol of learning and wisdom (teaching Virgin Mary) or a lily as a reference to the immaculateness of the Virgin Mary. According to the Liturgical Calendar of the Catholic Church, the Day of St. Ann is celebrated on 26th June. An annual pilgrimage is organised to the Chapel in Jelitov at this occasion.
The beautiful brick chapel is surrounded by seven Stations of the Cross of Our Lady – 1. The prophecy of Simeon in the temple 2. Escape to Egypt 3. The loss of twelve year old Jesus in the temple 4. An encounter with Jesus on the Way of the Cross 5. Jesus crucifixion and death of Jesus 6. Descent From the Cross 7. Burial of Jesus
Except for the peace of the beautiful natural setting of the Chapel, people come here to find pure mountain spring water flowing beneath the Chapel. This water is unspeakably delicious and refreshing on hot days. The pleasant surroundings of the Chapel provide several benches for rest and contemplation. The area also involves a public library – a box with books to borrow, to swap or to leave there an unnecessary book from your home. The Chapel makes an integral part of the 16 km long Educational Path of Jozef Kroner.
Access:
Easy – on foot, by bus, by bicycle. The Chapel is located about 100 m from the main road to the municipal part Staškov –Jelitov (from Staškov through Olešná, to Klokočov, about 6 km from the birthplace of Jozef Kroner) – the visitors are guided by a wooden notice board.
Gallery:
https://www.regionkysuce.sk/en/attractions-of-the-region/cultural-historical/738-pilgrim-place-staskov-jelitov-st-ann-s-chapel#sigProId65beb59049
