The Franciscan Monastery in Zaostrog

The most important cultural and historical monument in the Makarska Riviera is the Franciscan Monastery of St. Mary in the town of Zaostrog.

Although it was settled by the Franciscans in the 15th century, its history is a hundred years older; namely, in the 14th century, according to legend, it was founded by the Augustinian desert monks. The monastery quickly became an important spiritual, educational, and cultural center, and due to the beauty of its architecture and location, it was considered one of the most beautiful in this part of Europe as early as the 17th century.

The wealth of its monuments and the value of its heritage are vast and diverse. Above the entrance to the church, there is an inscription from 1589, written in the Croatian language and bosančica, the Bosnian Cyrillic script, and its enlightening significance is vividly demonstrated by the exceptionally valuable library with 20,000 books and a rich old archival collection, which is not surprising considering that there was also a gymnasium here. The monastery's art collection is also very important, and it houses a permanent exhibition of one of Croatia's most famous painters, Mladen Veža (1916-2010).

The monastery, along with all its architectural, historical, and religious values, is surrounded by a botanical garden featuring over 250 plant species, making it a true oasis of peace, beauty, and culture, well worth a (longer) visit.