The Tatra Temple of Ice has officially opened in the High Tatras, marking the 13th edition of this popular winter attraction. This year’s theme pays homage to two Popes – Pope Francis, who passed away in 2025, and his successor, Pope Leo XIV.
As in previous years, Adam Bakoš was the main builder of the Tatra Temple of Ice and led a team of 20 sculptors from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany.
Made from 225 tonnes of ice, this year’s magnificent structure is inspired by the Basilica of Saint John Lateran in Rome. The Baroque masterpiece, often referred to as the “mother of all churches,” is considered the highest-ranking basilica in the Catholic Church. It is one of four patriarchal basilicas in Rome and among its seven traditional pilgrimage churches.
“Our goal was to find an architectural symbol that could connect the stories of both Popes. The Basilica of Saint John Lateran seemed like the perfect choice. Apart from its grandeur, it features an abundance of ornate details which our sculptors have transformed into breathtaking ice form. We believe our visitors will be truly impressed,” said Lukáš Brodanský, Manager of the Vysoké Tatry mountain resort.
In addition to the basilica façade, people can admire ice sculptures of the Apostles, the Holy Door and the Papal Chair, symbolising the beginning of each newly elected Pope’s journey. The Temple also features portraits of six Popes – Leo XIV, Francis, Benedict XVI, John Paul II, John Paul I and Paul VI. Hidden among the architecture are five Tatra gentians carved from ice, waiting to be discovered by observant visitors.
The opening of the Tatra Temple of Ice also marks the symbolic start of the winter season in the High Tatras. “The Temple of Ice has become one of the icons of Tatra winters. Alongside skiing, hiking, sledging and other attractions, it offers unforgettable experiences to Slovak and also international visitors,” said Lucia Blašková, Director of the Región Vysoké Tatry regional tourism organisation. The High Tatras begin this winter season as the proud holder of the prestigious TRAVELBOOK AWARD 2025 in the category Best Hidden Gem Region in Europe.
Adding to the experience, this year’s Temple structure features several artistic glass works of art made by designer Achilleas Sdoukos. Visitors can also see an exhibition of costumes and on-set photographs from the upcoming “Štúr” film in the nearby Hrebienok Restaurant.
Facts and figures – 13th Tatra Temple of Ice:
- sculptors worked 8 hours a day for 25 days to create this year’s masterpiece
- 10.7 metres – the highest point of the construction
- 25 metres – the diameter of the structure cover
- 225 tonnes of ice used
- 1,800 ice blocks in total
The Tatra Temple of Ice will be open daily from 14th November 2025 to 19th April 2026, with free admission. Throughout the season, it will host 11 music concerts and performances.
The Vysoké Tatry mountain resort and Región Vysoké Tatry tourism organisation are the main organisers of the event, with Ice Art, Devold, Bergans and Cupra as the main partners. The event is also supported by the Town of Vysoké Tatry, the Ministry of Tourism and Sport of the Slovak Republic and Slovakia Travel, with TV JOJ as the media partner.