Monasteries, Croatia

Nestled on the western edge of the Riva, the Church and Monastery of St. Francis offer a fascinating glimpse into Split's rich history. Built on the foundations of an early Christian site, this remarkable place stands by the grave and the modest Church of St. Felix, a martyr from the era of Diocletian. Fast forward to the 13th century, and you'll find the Little Brothers of St. Francis taking residence here, adding their own layer to its storied past. Among the church's treasures, the Gothic Crucifix painted by Blaž Juraj of Trogir from the early 15th century stands out as a masterpiece. Equally captivating is the ancient sarcophagus depicting the Crossing of the Red Sea, a relic from Roman times that speaks volumes of the area's artistic heritage. Adjacent to the church, the Franciscan monastery invites you to explore its 13th-century cloister and a library that houses over 3,000 books, some dating back to the 16th century. It's a bibliophile's dream, offering a quiet sanctuary of knowledge. In addition to its architectural and literary charms, this sacred site is the final resting place for some of Split's most notable figures. You can pay your respects at the tomb of Marko Marulić, the father of Croatian literature, and admire the sarcophagus of Ante Trumbić, a prominent Croatian politician, crafted by the renowned sculptor Ivan Meštrović. As you wander through the church and monastery, take a moment to soak in the serene atmosphere. The scent of history lingers in the air, making it easy to imagine the countless stories these walls could tell. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this hidden gem in Split is a must-visit destination.

Nestled in the heart of Western Croatia, the Shrine of Our Lady of Trsat stands as the region's largest pilgrimage center. Legend has it that this sacred site is tied to the miraculous transportation of the Nazareth Barn, which is believed to have made a temporary stop in Trsat from 1291 to 1294. Soon after the Holy House of Mary was moved to Loreto, Prince Nikola I of Krk erected a modest church on the very spot where the barn once stood. Trsat has since blossomed into a beloved pilgrimage destination, its allure heightened by the revered painting of the Lady of Trsat. This cherished artwork was presented to the heartbroken Croats in 1367 by Pope Urban V, as a token of solace for the loss of the Holy Barn. In the 15th century, the Franciscans took over the sanctuary and have been its devoted caretakers ever since. The site reached a new pinnacle of spiritual significance on June 8, 2003, when Pope John Paul II participated in a grand pilgrimage procession. A visit to Trsat is not just about spiritual reflection; it's an opportunity to soak in the stunning views of the city of Rijeka from its hilltop perch. The surrounding gardens offer a peaceful retreat, where visitors can pause and appreciate the serene beauty of the area. Whether you're deeply religious or simply a curious traveler, the Shrine of Our Lady of Trsat offers a unique glimpse into Croatia's rich history and enduring faith.

Rovinj stands out on the west coast for its intriguing history, especially since it initially lacked a Franciscan monastery during the early days of the order. It wasn't until the tail end of the fifteenth century that the Diocese of San Geronimo decided to establish one on St. Andrew's Island, often referred to as Red Island, near Rovinj. This monastery was built on the site of an ancient sixth-century Benedictine hospice and church. Legend has it that St. John of Capistrano, a renowned missionary known for his battles against the Turks, founded the monastery. Interestingly, his remains rest in the Franciscan monastery of Ilok in eastern Croatia. Fast forward to 1807: after nearly four centuries, the Napoleonic authorities closed the Saint Andrew monastery. But the story didn't end there. In the early eighteenth century, St. Anthony's Franciscan reformers constructed a new monastery in the northern, continental part of Rovinj. At that time, this area was not yet connected to the mainland. In 1696, the Rovinj City Council extended an invitation to the Franciscans to build a new hospice. The Doge Alvise Mocenigo gave his blessing in 1700, and by 1702, construction of the church and hospice was underway. This project marked a first for Rovinj: explosives were used to create rock tanks for collecting rainwater. Visiting Rovinj today offers a chance to explore these layers of history and marvel at how the city has evolved over time. Wandering through its cobblestone streets, you can feel the echoes of the past, from the tales of ancient monks to the bold innovations of the city's builders. Plus, the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea provide the perfect backdrop for a journey through history.

Just a short, leisurely walk from Hvar's bustling square, you'll find yourself embracing the soothing sea breeze along the waterfront, eventually leading you to the serene Franciscan Monastery. This tranquil haven invites you to immerse yourself in its rich collection of museum exhibits. Imagine exploring Greek, Roman, and Venetian coins, intricate liturgical items, a fascinating atlas by the ancient cartographer Ptolemaeus, and rare amphorae exhibits. The monastery also houses masterpieces by Venetian painters like Francesco Santacroce and Palma Junior, but the true showstopper is the breathtaking Last Supper painting, measuring a whopping 2 by 8 meters. Art critics are divided: some attribute it to Ravenna's Matteo Ingoli, while others believe it hails from the school of Palma Junior. A unique attraction within the monastery grounds is the majestic 300-year-old cypress that stands proudly in the garden. It’s a living testament to the passage of time and adds an extra layer of charm to this already captivating site. As you wander through, imagine the stories this ancient tree could tell, having witnessed centuries of history unfold. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a history buff, the Franciscan Monastery offers a delightful glimpse into Hvar's cultural heritage.

The Mediterranean Monastery Garden of St. Lawrence is a hidden gem that came back to life in 2007 after being forgotten for a century. Nestled within the St. Lawrence Monastery, it was beautifully restored under the guidance of architect Dragutin Kiš. This garden is one-of-a-kind in Croatia, offering a serene escape filled with fragrant Mediterranean herbs and a central water source that adds a tranquil touch. Wandering through this garden feels like stepping into a peaceful sanctuary. The air is infused with the aromatic scents of rosemary, lavender, and sage, creating a calming atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for those seeking a moment of reflection or simply wanting to enjoy nature's beauty. Interestingly, the garden also serves as a reminder of the area's rich history and the dedication to preserving cultural heritage. It's a lovely place to relax and soak in the serene surroundings, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.

Nestled along the bustling Placa, the main thoroughfare of Dubrovnik, Croatia, stands the magnificent Franciscan Church and Monastery. This sprawling complex, owned by the Order of the Friars Minor, is a treasure trove of history and architectural beauty. It includes a monastery, church, library, and even a pharmacy, each with its own story to tell. Let's take a stroll back in time: The first monastery was constructed in the 13th century, originally outside the city walls. Fast forward to 1317 when a new monastery began to rise inside the walls, near the iconic Pile Gate. This ambitious project took centuries to complete, with various sections being rebuilt multiple times due to the wear of time and catastrophe. One such disaster was the devastating earthquake of 1667, which obliterated the church and claimed many of its artistic treasures, including a statue by Pietro di Martino da Milano. However, the portal overlooking the Placa endured. Sculpted in 1498 by the talented Petrović brothers, it remains a stunning example of Gothic artistry. The portal features an almost life-sized Pietà surrounded by flamboyant leaves, flanked by St. Jerome and St. John the Baptist. Above them stands the figure of the Father Creator, adding a divine touch to this historic entrance. Inside, the church was reborn in the Baroque style, with a single nave that echoes with stories of the past. Remarkably, the marble pulpit withstood the quake's fury, standing as a testament to resilience. The main altar is a masterpiece by sculptor Celia from Ancona, created in 1713. It features a statue of the resurrected Christ encircled by four elegantly twisted marble columns. The five side altars, crafted by Venetian artisan Giuseppe Sardi between 1684 and 1696, add to the church's opulent splendor. Not to be overlooked, the altar of St. Francis boasts decorations painted by Celestin Medović in 1888. As you wander through the church, you'll find the final resting place of the renowned poet Ivan Gundulić, whose works continue to resonate through Croatian culture. The monastery itself, built in 1360 by master Mihoje Brajkov of Bar, showcases late Romanesque style and provides a serene retreat from the lively streets outside. While you're here, don't miss the chance to visit the pharmacy, one of the oldest still-operating pharmacies in the world. It dates back to 1317 and offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of medicine. A stroll through the library will reveal a collection of ancient manuscripts, giving you a deeper appreciation for the knowledge and tradition preserved within these walls.

After meeting up with our local guide and a quick transfer, we set off on foot down the southern slopes of the island. It's a gentle 40-minute walk that leads us to a remarkable 16th-century monastery. This sacred site, built by Glagolitic priests fleeing from the Turks, nestles under a vast rock surrounded by pristine nature. The history here is captivating; it was once a respected center for astronomy. After exploring the museum, take a moment to unwind in the serene natural surroundings, listening to the harmonious sounds of the island. We also stroll past the quaint, abandoned village of Dragovode, where children once trekked daily to school in nearby Blac. It's like stepping back in time. From there, we continue to the island's highest point: Vidova Gora, standing proudly at 778 meters. This peak offers sweeping views over the islands of Hvar and Vis, and on a clear day, you might even spot Italy! It's a special place to pause and take in the breathtaking scenery before heading back to Supetar. Brač is an island that beckons with its unique blend of history and natural beauty. Don't miss the opportunity to experience its charm firsthand! Whether you're a history buff or a nature lover, there's something here for everyone.