Church and Monastery of St. Francis
A 13th-century Franciscan monastery and church offering a peaceful escape with a historic cloister and the tomb of Marko Marulić.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Church and Monastery of St. Francis
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 13th-century Franciscan monastery and church offering a peaceful escape with a historic cloister and the tomb of Marko Marulić.
"A very nice place to visit for some tranquility and to escape the chaotic crowds along the Riva promenade."
🌸 Embrace the Gardens
Skip the underwhelming catacombs and savor the beauty of the monastery gardens, especially in spring.
🤫 Find Your Peace
A quiet sanctuary away from the busy Riva promenade. Perfect for reflection and tranquility.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
13th-Century Cloister
Accessed via a door to the left of the nave
A serene quadrangle with a covered porch supported by Gothic columns. A true architectural gem.
Tomb of Marko Marulić
Inside the church
Pay respects at the final resting place of the renowned Croatian author, a significant cultural figure.
Monastery Gardens
Beautifully maintained grounds offering a peaceful escape. Best enjoyed during the spring bloom.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seek Tranquility Amidst History
Gardens Over Catacombs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌸 Embrace the Gardens
Skip the underwhelming catacombs and savor the beauty of the monastery gardens, especially in spring.
🤫 Find Your Peace
A quiet sanctuary away from the busy Riva promenade. Perfect for reflection and tranquility.
🏛️ Admire the Cloister
Don't miss the stunning 13th-century cloister with its Gothic columns. A must-see architectural feature.
Franciscan Monastery
Tips
from all over the internet
🌸 Embrace the Gardens
Skip the underwhelming catacombs and savor the beauty of the monastery gardens, especially in spring.
🤫 Find Your Peace
A quiet sanctuary away from the busy Riva promenade. Perfect for reflection and tranquility.
🏛️ Admire the Cloister
Don't miss the stunning 13th-century cloister with its Gothic columns. A must-see architectural feature.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Church and Monastery of St. Francis as a tranquil oasis away from the city's hustle, highlighting its historical significance and beautiful cloister and gardens. Some find the catacombs underwhelming, suggesting a focus on the natural beauty of the grounds.
"A very nice place to visit for some tranquility and to escape the chaotic crowds along the Riva promenade.
This site has quite a history dating back to the 13th Century when the Franciscan friars constructed a church & monastery here. But following demolishens it has been rebuilt several times with the current structure being 20th century.
Do visit the cloisters via door to the left of the nave; a quadrangle with covered porch border supported by Gothic columns."
Miles Macdonald
"Located on the Western part of the Riva, the Church of Saint Francis stand proudly upon an ancient early Christian site. This is a monastery and church from the 13th century in which the grave of the Croatian author Marko Marulić is located, among other things."
Mat Bienczyk
"This church, looking tiny on the outside but not really on the inside, is located at the end of the huge Place de la République.
A quiet place away from the tourist bustle of the city where you can enjoy some peace and quiet.
A monastery with a 13th century cloister and a church with the tomb of Croatian writer Marko Marulić.
Inside the church at the time of our visit, there was an amazing Nativity Scene."
Hama
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monastery is located on the western part of the Riva promenade, making it easily accessible on foot from the city center. It's a pleasant walk along the waterfront.
Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public parking garages or consider walking if you're staying nearby.
Yes, several local bus lines stop near the Riva promenade, providing convenient access to the monastery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church is generally free, though donations are appreciated. Access to the cloister and gardens might have a small fee or be included with a guided tour. It's best to check on-site for current admission policies.
Opening hours can vary, especially for the cloister and gardens. It's advisable to check the official monastery website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information, particularly regarding mass times.
While the catacombs are mentioned, some visitors find them underwhelming. If you choose to visit, there may be a separate fee.
You can attend mass, but be mindful of the service schedule. Some visitors have suggested adding music or singing during masses to enhance the experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the tomb of Marko Marulić, the Croatian author. Visitors have also noted impressive Nativity scenes during certain times of the year.
A visit can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend exploring the cloister, gardens, and church at your own pace.
Yes, it's described as a quiet place away from the tourist bustle, offering peace and tranquility for visitors seeking a moment of calm.
Many visitors rave about the beautiful gardens and the serene grounds. The 13th-century cloister is also a highlight for its architecture.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. Generally, photography for personal use is permitted in most areas, but it's always respectful to check for any signage or ask staff, especially during services.
The cloister with its columns offers beautiful architectural shots. The gardens provide lovely natural light and scenic backdrops, particularly in spring.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the visual appeal of the cloister's architecture and the open spaces of the gardens. While the catacombs are an option, reviews suggest they might not hold younger children's attention as well as the outdoor areas. Visiting during off-peak hours can ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Spend time wandering through the serene cloister and the beautifully maintained gardens. It's a perfect spot to read, meditate, or simply soak in the historical atmosphere without the usual crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The monastery is particularly noted for housing the tomb of Marko Marulić, a pivotal figure in Croatian literature. His resting place within the church makes it a site of cultural pilgrimage for many. The architectural heart of the complex is its 13th-century cloister, a quadrangle featuring a covered porch supported by elegant Gothic columns, offering a serene space for contemplation and appreciation of medieval design.
Exploring the Grounds
While some visitors mention the catacombs, feedback suggests they can be underwhelming and feel somewhat 'kitschy.' Travelers often recommend prioritizing the exploration of the gardens and the overall monastery grounds for a more rewarding experience. This focus on natural beauty and serene spaces provides a peaceful contrast to the bustling Riva promenade nearby.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit