Dolný Kubín, the former capital of Orava, is now its cultural center. The oldest remains of the original architecture in this region are from the 14th century when the building of the first Gothic church was commenced. In 1627, this church was extended and in 1725, it was rebuilt in baroque style. This town also offers its visitors the interesting P. O. Hviezdoslav Museum based on the personal belongings of the great poet and the Orava Gallery, a regional gallery. The Orava Gallery was created in 1965 and it is one of the most important public galleries in Slovakia.