Cathedral of St. Peter, Đakovo : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

The Cathedral of St. Peter in Đakovo, Croatia, is a breathtaking example of Baroque style architecture, making it one of the most impressive structures in the region. Built in the 18th century, this grand church has served as a place of spiritual and cultural importance to the local community since its establishment. With its intricately decorated interior and eye-catching exterior, the Cathedral of St. Peter is a must-see for any visitor to Đakovo. This article will provide an overview of interesting facts, information, and travel guides for those interested in seeing this remarkable church while visiting Croatia. From facts about the church’s history to travel guide advice, you will be sure to have all of the essential information to ensure you make the most of your time at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Đakovo.

Interesting Facts About Cathedral of St. Peter, Đakovo

1. Built in 1731, Tripartite Cathedral of St. Peter in Đakovo is the largest cathedral in the region of Slavonia and one of the biggest in Croatia.

2. The Cathedral is especially remarkable for its Baroque style combined with Neo-Gothic elements that makes its design unique.

3. It was built with limestone bricks that were fired in the walls surrounding the city and constructed by local people.

4. The expansive interior of 73 meters in length and 34 meters in width is dedicated to St. Peter and St. Paul and offers a stunning view of Baroque and Neo-Gothic decadence.

5. Originally, the Cathedral contained 15 altars, each depicting a different scene from the lives of saints.

6. Among the many attractions inside the Cathedral is the famous 2.5 ton chandelier donated by Empress Maria Theresia in 1769.

7. The Cathedral is home to one of the most important pieces of art in the region believed to be the work of the famous Austrian painter, Johann Georg Scholtz.

8. Đakovo Cathedral also houses a relic of St. Paul the Apostle inside its crypt.

9. One of the most interesting elements of the cathedral is its bell tower that is believed to have been constructed by the famous master restorer, Stjepan Merkovic.

10. The Cathedral is also home to a beautiful Baroque organ built in 1739 by master craftsman, Christof Hartl.

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History & Information About Cathedral of St. Peter, Đakovo

The Cathedral of St. Peter or the Đakovo Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in Đakovo in Slavonia, Croatia. The cathedral is the episcopal seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Đakovo-Osijek, with its Bishop currently Pavao Žanić.

The cathedral was constructed between 1866 and 1886 on the site of an earlier Gothic church, by the design of architect Herman Bolle. The new Neo-Gothic Cathedral replaced the old Baroque church which had been damaged by a fire. The dedication mass and coronation ceremony of Archduke Joseph August of Austria were held in the new Cathedral in 1897. The cathedral was damaged during the First World War and had to resist the Yugoslav shelling of the city during the Croatian War of Independence.

The façade of the Cathedral is decorated with statues of the Apostles Peter and Paul, patrons of the church, while the large rose window is dedicated to Mary. The interior is marked by the presence of two large organ cases, one of which is still in use. The main altar is set near the rose window and is consecrated to St. Peter and Paul; other precious altars dedicated to Mary and the Sacred Heart of Jesus are located in the side aisles. Behind the Cathedral stands a large park, home to a monument by the sculptor Ivan Meštrović.

Today, the Đakovo Cathedral remains an important spiritual landmark in Croatia and a popular tourist destination. The cathedral is visited by hundreds of faithful and tourists each year, and the site is used for various religious ceremonies and festivals, such as the yearly Corpus Christi procession.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Cathedral of St. Peter, Đakovo

1. Get There

The Cathedral of St. Peter is located in the city of Đakovo in Croatia. The nearest airport is Zagreb Airport (ZAG), which is about a two-hour car ride away from the cathedral. From Zagreb, you can take a bus or train to Đakovo, which will take around 2.5 hours.

2. Tour the Cathedral

The Cathedral of St. Peter was built between 1866 and 1873 and was erected in the Neo-Renaissance style. Inside the cathedral, spend some time admiring the stunning artwork and its impressive architecture. The cathedral has 42 stained glass windows, depicting various biblical scenes. There are also numerous wall frescoes and some of the frescoes are dedicated to the Roman Catholic Church. You may also find the urn of Archbishop Josip Juraj Strossmayer, who is the founder of the Bishopric of Đakovo.

3. Visit other nearby attractions

In addition to the cathedral, there are plenty of other attractions in Đakovo to explore. Visit the Bishop’s Palace, which was built for Bishop Josip Juraj Strossmayer in 1888. There is also the Church of St. Petka, which was built in the city in the 18th century and is a popular tourist destination.

4. Plan to Attend a Mass

The cathedral is still an active religious site and mass is held every Sunday. The mass starts at 10:00 AM and is open to the public. So, make sure you schedule your visit accordingly.

5. Where to Eat & Drink

For a quick bite, there are plenty of small eateries and restaurants located in and around the city. For a more impressive dining experience, visit the popular restaurant, Javni Kolodvor, which is located near the Cathedral of St. Peter. There are also a few bars and pubs located in and around the city, which are perfect for a spot of nightlife.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Cathedral of St. Peter, Đakovo

Q: What is the history of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Đakovo?

A: The foundation of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Đakovo dates back to the 11th century when the remains of St. Peter were brought to Đakovo for safekeeping, with construction of the structure completed in the 1320s. It was originally built in a Romanesque-Gothic style, although it has been renovated and remodeled multiple times.

Q: What is the significance of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Đakovo?

A: The Cathedral of St. Peter in Đakovo is an important pilgrimage destination in Croatia due to the presence of the remains of St. Peter. Additionally, the cathedral is a cultural icon in Croatia as it houses several masterworks of art and serves as an important landmark in the city.

Q: Who designed the Cathedral of St. Peter in Đakovo?

A: The initial structure of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Đakovo was designed by Paskoj Miličević in the 13th century. It was subsequently remodeled in various styles throughout its history, most notably in the Baroque style in the late 17th century.

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