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Church of St. Nicholas: A Seafarer's Sanctuary

Discover Stari Grad's 14th-century Church of St. Nicholas: a historical landmark with stunning architecture and a serene atmosphere.

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The Church of St. Nicholas in Stari Grad is a 14th-century Catholic church dedicated to the patron saint of sailors and fishermen. Known for its historical significance and Venetian gilded altar, it offers a serene glimpse into the town's cultural and spiritual heritage.

A brief summary to Church of St. Nicholas

Local tips

  • Visit on St. Nicholas Day (December 6th) to witness the traditional burning of an old boat in front of the church.
  • Take a moment to admire the intricate details of the Venetian wooden gilded altar inside the church.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the picturesque streets of Stari Grad to explore other historical sites and local eateries.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Stari Grad ferry terminal, walk east along Obala Dr. Franje Tuđmana, then turn left onto Vukovarska cesta. The Church of St. Nicholas will be on your right after a few minutes. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Stari Grad ferry terminal, take a local bus towards the town center. Get off at the bus stop closest to Vukovarska cesta and walk a short distance to the church. A single bus ticket costs around 27 kn.

  • Taxi

    From the Stari Grad ferry terminal, a taxi ride to the Church of St. Nicholas will take approximately 5 minutes. Taxi services are available near the ferry terminal, with fares typically ranging from 50-70 kn.

  • Driving

    From the Stari Grad ferry terminal, drive along Obala Dr. Franje Tuđmana and then turn left onto Vukovarska cesta. The church will be on the right. Parking is available in the vicinity, with rates varying depending on the season. Expect to pay around 10-20 kn per hour during peak season.

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Discover more about Church of St. Nicholas

Nestled in the heart of Stari Grad, the Church of St. Nicholas stands as a testament to the town's rich maritime history and cultural heritage. Built in the 14th century, this Catholic church has long been a cherished landmark for locals and visitors alike. It served as the church of the brotherhood of Stari Grad's sailors and fishermen, holding votive images and memories of survived shipwrecks. The church's architecture reflects classic Gothic elements and intricate stonework. Inside, the wooden gilded altar from 1612, crafted by Venetian wood carver Antonio Porri, is considered an exceptional work of art. The church is not just a place of worship; it's a living museum that offers insights into the cultural and spiritual life of the community. To this day, on St. Nicholas' Day (December 6), an old boat is symbolically sacrificed in a fire in front of the church, a tradition rooted in trusting the saint's mercy as the patron of sailors. The church has undergone extensive renovations to preserve its structure and beauty, ensuring it remains a beacon of history and faith for generations to come.

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