Visovac Monastery, Krka National Park : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Visovac Monastery, located in Krka National Park in Croatia, is an incredible monastery that is steeped in centuries of stories. The monastery was initially founded in the 15th century, and was the site of significant historical events, such as wars and battles, which has shaped the architecture of the monastery today. It now serves as a popular religious pilgrimage site, and is the location of the beautiful Visovac Island, which is home to an untouched nature reserve. Visovac Monastery has an impressive and unique history that has shaped the current state of the monastery and the surrounding National Park. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the interesting facts and information about Visovac Monastery, its history, and tips on planning a visit to this incredible site.

Interesting Facts About Visovac Monastery, Krka National Park

1. Visovac Monastery was founded by Franciscan monks in 1445 and the present-day monastery was built in 1784.

2. It is believed that the small island it is located on was named after the Visoca tree. Legend has it that an ancient Serbian king, Milutin, planted the tree on the island after having a vision that the tree would protect the future monastery.

3. It is one of the most recognizable monuments of Krka National Park.

4. Due to its secluded location in the park, the monastery was used as a hideout during the Ottoman invasion of the region in the 15th–17th centuries.

5. The Visovac Monastery has had a number of famous visitors, including Pope John Paul II in 1998.

6. The monastery is home to a museum and holds regular cultural events, including lectures, concerts, and exhibitions.

7. Inside the monastery, visitors can see its library, which holds a number of ancient books and manuscripts.

8. Not far from the monastery lies St. Nicholas Church, which was built in the 16th century and is still used by the local Catholic community today.

9. The Visovac Monastery is well known for its high-quality olive oil, wine, and other handmade products.

10. The monastery grounds are home to a number of birds, mammals, and reptiles, making it a popular destination for nature lovers as well.

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History & Information About Visovac Monastery, Krka National Park

The Visovac Monastery is a Serbian Orthodox monastery located on the small island of Visovac, within the Krka National Park of central Croatia. It has been a place of religious worship, cultural exchange, and spiritual refuge for more than five centuries, and the connection between the monastery and the park is said to go back to ancient times.

The Visovac Monastery dates back to 1445 and was first established by Serbian Orthodox monks from Rascian Monastery. In the 15th century, they built a small church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which remains the main church on the remote island.

The monastery survived several invasions throughout the centuries, and was actively involved in the Christianization of the area during the Ottoman reign. As the area held great significance to Orthodox Serbs, it became an important spiritual center and refuge for the many who sought refuge from religious persecution.

The Visovac Monastery is situated in a beautiful location that is highly visible from the main park. With its white stone walls and red tiled roofs, it stands as a reminder of what life was like for early Christians now living in a more tolerant nation. Visitors will find an ornate statues of Mary and Jesus, and several relics from early Christians.

The monastery is a popular destination for tourists, especially during the summer months. Visitors can tour the grounds and take in the views of the islands and Krka National Park. There are also a number of educational and cultural activities available, such as lectures and guided tours. Visitors can even stay at the monastery overnight, as there are a number of rooms available for rent.

The Visovac Monastery is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in Croatia, and its importance to the history and culture of the country should not be overlooked.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Visovac Monastery, Krka National Park

1. Getting There: The closest airport to the Visovac Monastery is the Split International Airport (SPU) located just 54 miles away in Split. Once at the airport, you can easily rent a car and follow the E71 highway which connects Split to the Visovac Monastery, located on the western shore of the Krka River.

2. Visovac Monastery: Visovac Monastery is a Catholic monastery located on an island in the Krka River, and is surrounded by a stunning villa. It is an excellent place to enjoy the incredible views of the dense forests and the clear tranquil waters. The monastery dates back to 1445, when it was founded by the Franciscan friar. During your visit, take some time to explore the monastery, admire its baroque altar and enjoy a guided tour around its serene gardens.

3. Krka National Park: Not far from the Visovac Monastery is the incredible Krka National Park. Here you can take a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters, or go on any number of hiking trails. While at the park, don’t forget to see Čikola canyon and its iconic waterfalls such as Skradinski buk and Roški slap. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a boat ride to the Skradinski and Roški Slap waterfalls.

4. Food & Accommodation: If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are numerous hotels and apartments located in the area. As for food, you’ll find some great restaurants near Visovac Monastery where you can try Middle Eastern and Mediterranean specialties. As for activities, you can explore the nearby villages and enjoy some amazing outdoor activities such as fishing, bird watching, kayaking, and canoeing.

5. Weather: The best time to visit Visovac Monastery is during spring and summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. During this time you can also enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and explore the beautiful wildlife in the area. It is important to note that the weather can be quite unpredictable due to strong winds and sudden rain showers. So it’s best to pack accordingly.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Visovac Monastery, Krka National Park

Q. Where is Visovac Monastery located?

A. Visovac Monastery is located on Visovac Island, off the coast of Šibenik, Croatia, within the Krka National Park.

Q. What is the history of Visovac Monastery?

A. The Visovac Monastery was founded in 1445 by Bosnian Franciscans and has been an important spiritual and cultural center ever since. The monastery has remained active over the centuries, and has survived many wars and disasters.

Q. What is the significance of Visovac Monastery?

A. Visovac Monastery is an important spiritual and cultural landmark, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It contains old religious artifacts, documents, and paintings from different historical era’s, and it serves as a major tourist attraction for visitors of Krka National Park.

Q. What can visitors do at Visovac Monastery?

A. Visitors can explore the historical grounds of the monastery, learn about its rich cultural and religious heritage, view old artifacts, and admire its ancient frescoes. Guided tours are also available.

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