So many cities in Slovakia have their own castle

and at least part of their medieval city wall

Zvolen's castle is undergoing restoration

At least part of the site serves as a branch of the National Gallery

The town square is named for the Slovak National Uprising (SNP) and contains many memorials

Church bells were ringing on this peaceful Sunday morning

We traveled 6 miles to the little village of Zolna where the tiny, 13th century church of St Matthew contains medieval frescoes

Our guidebook said that the church was open only for Sunday Mass
However, on this Sunday no one unlocked the gate or came for Mass.
Local residents probably had more up-to-date information
than our guidebook did.