7 churches in Croatia you cannot miss
You don't need to be religious to visit a church. You just need an appreciation for architecture and art.
While I was baptized Serbian Orthodox, by no means am I religious. In fact, I never went to church because I was allergic to the incense and would faint - though some of the older ladies thought it was a sign of possession.
I personally don’t believe one needs to be religious to enjoy the beauty of a church. The architecture, art, craftsmanship and silence are all things we can appreciate without knowing the Bible.
It is also worth noting that most churches are free to enter providing a budget friendly activity for those looking to be wowed. Some do have entry fees and that is usually because of their popularity or because they have historic artwork or a relic on site.
While I was visiting Croatia, I got to see some pretty stunning churches (inside and out) and a religious destination that I highly encourage you to visit.
Cathedral of Zagreb (Zagrebačka katedrala)
📍 Kaptol 31, Zagreb | Denomination: Catholic
An iconic part of the Zagreb skyline, this church is under renovations after a 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck Zagreb on March 22, 2020 - days before pandemic lockdown. This was followed by a 6.2 magnitude earthquake on December 29, 2020 in nearby Petrinja.
The cathedral was not spared. Parts of the tower collapsed, cracks in the ceiling formed and the ground was littered with bricks - the cathedral has a gallery here showing the damage. While you cannot visit the interior, I encourage you to view the exterior from the Panoramic Viewpoint of Zagreb or up close. If you do want to see inside, the church has a virtual tour online.
Regardless of its current condition, the Neo-Gothic structure is one of the most famous symbols in the city and the tallest building in Croatia. Its twin spires are iconic, but were behind scaffolding in Oct. 2024. It is said to have one of the top organs in the world - though I’m not sure if the quake damaged it. It was formerly known as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which some locals still refer to it as.
Church of Annunciation (Crkva sv Blagoveštenje)
📍Ul. od Puča 8, Dubrovnik | Denomination: Serbian Orthodox
This is the only Serbian Orthodox church within the Dubrovnik city walls. Built in 1877, it was fully restored in 2009 after being heavily damaged during the Siege of Dubrovnik decades prior. It is also a museum.
As a baptized Serbian Orthodox, it reminded me of the churches I’d visit with my baba (grandmother) - when service was not happening because of the incense. It has a golden altarpiece and this stunning blue semicircle overtop of it that draws the eyes and forces you to focus towards the front.
Church of St. Nicholas
📍 Put dr. Ante Starčevića 18, Cavtat | Denomination: Catholic
I didn’t expect to visit Cavtat, but a cute Dutch boy recommended it and when it comes to cute Dutch boys I’m useless. And yes, I probably shouldn’t talk about homosexuality in a post dedicated to religion, in a country that is questionable around LGBTQ+ acceptance.
Cavtat is a charming little town close to Dubrovnik. This church is usually overshadowed by Our Lady of Snow Monastery (which was under significant renovation in Oct. 2024) and while its interior is less impressive than others on this list without it the Cavtat skyline doesn't feel right.
I personally love how the church is angled, so that when you exit you face the water. Its stairs are nice to sit on as well as have a snack or a drink on, while observing the crowds and boats passing by.
Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Crkva Male Gospe)
📍 Zagrađe 15, Skradin | Denomination: Catholic
Skradin is a super small town, but has a dock for a popular river cruise along the Krka River to/from Krka National Park. The exterior is basic and flat. A cross sits below the roofline and two statues bookend the green entrance way. However, its stunning ceiling murals inside capture the eye, giving visitors a hidden surprise.
Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord (Crkva Preobraženja Gospodnjeg)
📍 Preobraženska ul. 4, Zagreb | Denomination: Serbian Orthodox
In Oct. 2024, the interior was covered with scaffolding as it was undergoing a renovation after damage by the 2020 earthquakes. Regardless, the stunning colours from the various frescos, featuring famed religious scenes can still be seen - minus the ceiling which is completely covered. The church itself dates back to 1865-66 and is on the site of a former Catholic church. Also the scaffolding is kind of a neat touch in my opinion.
Saint Mark’s Church (Crkva sv. Marka)
📍Trg Sv. Marka 5, Zagreb | Denomination: Catholic
The highlight of this church is the stunning multicoloured roof that looks as though it has been beaded. With blue, orange, white and red colours, the roof features the coats of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia and Slavonia. The church dates back to the 13th century, but minimal elements from that time are still present. When I went to the church it was blocked off and had police officers surrounding the perimeter (it is next to a government office, which might explain it), but locals say it is typically closed. Regardless, the roof is truly the highlight.
Stone Gate (Kamenita vrata)
📍 Kamenita ul. 1, Zagreb | Denomination: Religious Destination
This is not a church, but a 13th century shrine embedded in the eastern gate of the medieval town. In fact, the gate is the only remaining entrance of the city’s fortifications. The gate is only open for pedestrian traffic and while electric/motor bikes are able to make it through, drivers get off and walk them through out of respect.
Inside a painting of the Virgin Mary, the patron saint of Zagreb, hangs behind an iron fence. There are also pews to one corner where people pray - so it’s important to be quiet when walking through.
Since the gate was an entrance and exit to the old town, it is said that those leaving for work would pray to the Virgin Mary for their safety as they embarked on their day. When they returned home, they’d thank the Mother of God for protecting them. The walls are even covered with slabs reading “Hvala ti” or “Thank You.”
Tip: The 2020 earthquakes caused significant damage to Zagreb and COVID-19 did not help in repair efforts. Therefore, many of its tourist attractions are still closed for renovation, but are slowly reopening.