Perched near the summit of the Biokovo mountain range in southern Croatia, St. George Church (Crkva sv. Jurja) is a modest yet historically and spiritually significant site. Located at an elevation of about 1,762 meters, not far (50m) from the peak of Sveti Jure — the highest point on Biokovo and the second-highest peak in Croatia — the church stands as a symbolic guardian of the region.
History and Significance
The church is dedicated to Saint George (Sveti Jure), a revered Christian martyr and dragon-slayer, known for his role as a protector in Christian tradition. The original chapel is believed to date back to the 17th century, although it has been rebuilt and restored over the years due to the harsh weather conditions at such high altitudes.
Its location reflects the long-standing connection between Croatian coastal communities and Christian traditions. Locals have made pilgrimages to this church for centuries, especially on April 23, Saint George’s feast day, which is celebrated with mass and community gatherings.
Architecture and Atmosphere
St. George Church is small and simple in design — a stone chapel with a red-tiled roof, blending harmoniously with the rugged karst landscape. What it lacks in grandeur, it makes up for with its dramatic surroundings and panoramic views.
Standing by the church, visitors are treated to sweeping vistas that stretch across the Dalmatian coast, over the islands of Brač, Hvar, and Korčula, and inland toward the Bosnian mountains. On especially clear days, it’s even possible to see all the way to Italy across the Adriatic Sea.
Access and Visiting
The church can be reached via a narrow but paved road that winds up the mountain from the Biokovo Nature Park entrance near the town of Makarska. The drive is one of the highest paved roads in Croatia and offers a thrilling journey through sharp turns and breathtaking cliffs.
While the road is accessible by car, many prefer to hike or cycle up to the summit for a more immersive experience. The journey, though demanding, rewards visitors with not only spiritual serenity but also some of the most stunning views in all of the Balkans.
No car? Ask TAXI MAKARSKA LIONS or Tip-Extreme about that.
Cultural Importance
St. George Church remains a powerful symbol of faith, endurance, and identity for the local population. It serves not only as a religious site but also as a cultural marker — connecting the people of Dalmatia to their history, nature, and each other.
Bonus: The View and Sunsets from the Top
The area around St. George Church offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Croatia. From this incredible vantage point, the entire Makarska Riviera unfolds below like a living map — its towns, pine forests, beaches, and islands shimmering under the sun.
But the real magic begins at dusk.
As the sun begins to set over the Adriatic Sea, the sky transforms into a canvas of burning oranges, deep purples, and soft pinks. Watching the sunset from this height — in silence, surrounded by wind and stone — is an unforgettable experience. The sea glows with golden light, the islands cast long shadows, and the mountain itself becomes a quiet silhouette against the fading sky.
It’s a perfect reward for hikers, pilgrims, and dreamers alike — a moment where nature, spirituality, and peace converge high above the world below.
