Blaca Hermitage: A Testament to History and Resilience
Discover Blaca Hermitage: A unique cultural and natural monument on Brač Island, Croatia, blending history, spirituality, and stunning landscapes.
The Blaca Hermitage, or Pustinja Blaca in Croatian, is a remarkable historical site on the island of Brač. Founded in 1551 by Glagolitic monks fleeing the Ottoman invasion, it grew from a simple cave into a thriving monastic community. Over centuries, the monks transformed the site into an impressive complex, including a church, living quarters, a school, and even an astronomical observatory. The hermitage boasts a rich inventory, including a library of over 11,000 books, ancient manuscripts, astronomical instruments, and period furniture. The monks cultivated vineyards and olive groves, making the hermitage a self-sufficient economic entity. The monastery remained active until 1963 when the last monk, Father Niko Miličević, passed away. Today, Blaca Hermitage stands as a museum, showcasing the ingenuity and perseverance of its inhabitants and offering visitors a glimpse into a unique way of life. It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List on January 29, 2007.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as reaching the hermitage involves a 30-45 minute walk along a gravel path.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no food or beverage facilities available at the site.
- Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season, and the museum is closed on Mondays.
- Consider visiting during the spring or early autumn for mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
A brief summary to Blaca Hermitage
- bb, Nerežišća, HR
- +385915164671
Getting There
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Car and Walking
From the main road connecting Supetar and Bol, watch for signs to Vidova Gora. Follow the road towards Vidova Gora and then turn right at the brown sign towards Blaca. Drive to the designated Blaca parking area. From there, it's approximately a 30-45 minute walk to the hermitage. Note that the road to the parking is partly a dirt road. There is no parking fee. Expect to pay 8 EUR for adults to enter the hermitage.
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Boat and Walking
Take a boat excursion from Bol to Blaca Bay. The boat will take you to the bay, from where you will need to walk for about 45 minutes to reach the hermitage. Boat excursions from Bol to Blaca Bay typically cost around 26 EUR. Expect to pay 8 EUR for adults to enter the hermitage.
