Račić Mausoleum Cavtat
A masterpiece of Art Deco architecture by Ivan Meštrović, offering breathtaking views over Cavtat and the Adriatic Sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Račić Mausoleum Cavtat
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A masterpiece of Art Deco architecture by Ivan Meštrović, offering breathtaking views over Cavtat and the Adriatic Sea.
"Worth the climb for the art, history, and absolutely stunning views!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb can be steep, especially from the harbor. Opt for sturdy footwear for an easier ascent.
💰 Small Entry Fee
A modest fee of around €4 grants access inside the mausoleum. Worth it for the art and history!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Račić Mausoleum Architecture
Cavtat Cemetery
Masterpiece by Ivan Meštrović, blending Art Deco with religious and artistic elements. A unique fusion of memorial and sacred space.
Panoramic Cavtat Views
Hill of St. Rock
Unrivaled vistas of Cavtat's waterfront, promenade, and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.
Intricate Interior Details
Inside the Mausoleum
Discover the detailed craftsmanship and symbolic elements within the octagonal mausoleum, a testament to Meštrović's artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Climb, Stunning Views
A Quiet, Reflective Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb can be steep, especially from the harbor. Opt for sturdy footwear for an easier ascent.
💰 Small Entry Fee
A modest fee of around €4 grants access inside the mausoleum. Worth it for the art and history!
🤫 Be Respectful
This is an active cemetery. Maintain a quiet demeanor and be mindful of ongoing services.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are spectacular. Bring your camera for stunning shots of Cavtat and the sea.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb can be steep, especially from the harbor. Opt for sturdy footwear for an easier ascent.
💰 Small Entry Fee
A modest fee of around €4 grants access inside the mausoleum. Worth it for the art and history!
🤫 Be Respectful
This is an active cemetery. Maintain a quiet demeanor and be mindful of ongoing services.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are spectacular. Bring your camera for stunning shots of Cavtat and the sea.
📖 Read the Info Sheet
Take advantage of the multilingual guides to understand the family history and architectural significance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Račić Mausoleum for its stunning Art Deco architecture by Ivan Meštrović and the breathtaking panoramic views of Cavtat and the Adriatic Sea. The peaceful atmosphere of the cemetery and the intricate interior details are also highlighted as significant draws. Some note the steep climb as a minor challenge, but most agree the experience is well worth the modest entry fee.
"You can spot the Racic family mausoleum from a distance as is located on the highest point of Cavtat. The climb is a bit steep if you are coming from the steps but if you are walking in the centre of Cavtat is not so bad. The Racic family mausoleum which is also known as Our Lady of the Angels it was built in 1922 by the Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic in Art Deco style on top of an existing chapel of Saint Roch. The architecture is designed as a fussion of memorial, religious and artistic space. The floor plan is octagonal with prominent chapels in the form of a GreeK Cross. The cemetery is still in use today and any funerals do take place in the mausoleum. The views are amazing as you get to see the whole of Cavtat from above and over to the Adriatic sea so is worth the climb."
Kypriopoulla
"It is a breathtaking place, walking inside the mausoleum, seeing the many details in the craftsmanship in such a small space.
Initially I walked up on recommendation from our hotel (Hotel Supetar), and I was not disappointed. The history of the mausoleum, builds upon the craftsmanship. The tragic events inflicted upon the Racic family, and the Trust who ensured it was built, makes this a worthwhile visit.
It was worth the €4 entry fee, and I recommend sitting in silence to take in the space, before reading the information sheet, which takes you through the history of the Racic family and the details of the stonemasonry work."
Robert Johnson
"This place is basically frequented by locals and there are few tourists there, especially because it is a cemetery. However, the place is beautiful! It is a local cemetery, located at the top of the hill in urban Cavtat, with a magnificent view of the city's waterfront and promenade."
Mat Bienczyk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the mausoleum by walking from Cavtat's center. There are two main paths: one with many steps from the harbor, and a gentler path with fewer steps on the opposite side of the hill. The cemetery is located at the highest point of Cavtat.
Parking in Cavtat can be limited, especially during peak season. It's often easier to walk from your accommodation or the main town area. Consider public transport or a taxi if driving.
The walk involves a climb, and some routes have steep steps. It's manageable with comfortable shoes, but those with mobility issues might find it challenging.
Yes, buses connect Cavtat to Dubrovnik and other nearby towns. From the bus stop in Cavtat, it's a walk to the mausoleum.
Cavtat is a short drive or bus ride from Dubrovnik, making the mausoleum an accessible day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cemetery grounds are free to enter and offer great views. There is a small entrance fee, around €4, to go inside the mausoleum itself.
As it's part of an active cemetery, hours can vary. It's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or visit during typical daytime visiting hours.
No, advance booking is typically not required for the Račić Mausoleum. You can purchase tickets upon arrival at the entrance.
Yes, the Cavtat Cemetery is open to visitors. It's a well-maintained and peaceful place to explore, with the mausoleum as its centerpiece.
While official guided tours might be limited, the information sheets provided inside the mausoleum offer detailed insights into its history and design.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the mausoleum, but always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid flash photography if it might disturb others.
The panoramic views from the hill are exceptional. Inside, focus on the architectural details and the unique artistic elements. The exterior architecture itself is also very photogenic.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the colors and textures of the mausoleum and the surrounding landscape.
Drone usage is typically restricted in cemeteries and residential areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a prime lens can be useful for detailed shots inside the mausoleum. A tripod can help with low-light conditions.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Commissioned by the Račić family and designed by sculptor Ivan Meštrović, it was built in 1922 on the site of an older chapel. It's a significant example of Art Deco architecture and a testament to Meštrović's work.
Inside, you'll find intricate stonemasonry, symbolic artwork, and a unique octagonal floor plan with chapels in a Greek cross form. The atmosphere is peaceful and reflective.
Yes, the Cavtat Cemetery is still an active burial site, and funerals do take place there.
Allow at least 30-60 minutes to explore the grounds, admire the architecture, take photos, and soak in the views. Reading the information sheet inside adds to the experience.
Restroom facilities may be limited within the cemetery itself. It's advisable to use facilities in Cavtat town before heading up to the mausoleum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The real magic, however, lies in the panoramic views from the hilltop. Capture the charming town of Cavtat, the azure Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding islands, especially during the golden hour for dramatic lighting. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Vision of Ivan Meštrović
Meštrović's design is characterized by its Art Deco influences, evident in the clean lines and geometric patterns. The mausoleum's octagonal floor plan and the prominent Greek cross-shaped chapels showcase a thoughtful and symbolic layout. The inscription on the bell, "Learn the secret of love and you will believe that life is eternal," further adds a layer of profound meaning to the site.
Visitors often remark on the intricate details of the stonemasonry and the overall craftsmanship, highlighting Meštrović's meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the design. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the mausoleum also carries a poignant history related to the Račić family's tragic events, which adds a layer of emotional depth to the visit.
Cavtat Cemetery: A Peaceful Sanctuary with a View
Unlike some more somber cemeteries, Cavtat's is often described as beautiful and well-kept, with a serene atmosphere that invites contemplation.
Locals frequent the cemetery, adding to its authentic feel and reinforcing its role as an integral part of the community.
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