Church-Fortress of St. Mary of Mercy Vrboska
A rare 16th-century fortress converted into a church, offering unique architecture and stunning bay views from its rooftop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat
Church-Fortress of St. Mary of Mercy Vrboska
Best Time
Avoid midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rare 16th-century fortress converted into a church, offering unique architecture and stunning bay views from its rooftop.
"A unique blend of defense and devotion with a rewarding view from the top."
Check Opening Hours
Interior access is limited. Confirm hours before your visit to avoid missing out! :clock10:
Symbolic Entry Fee
A small fee of ~2€ is required for interior access. Cash is recommended. :euro:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fortress Architecture
Exterior
A unique blend of religious and defensive architecture, offering a striking visual against the bay.
Rooftop Bay Views
Rooftop
Ascend for panoramic vistas of Vrboska and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
Historic Tower Graffiti
Tower
Discover centuries-old graffiti etched by visitors, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Entry
Symbolic Entrance Fee
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Hours
Interior access is limited. Confirm hours before your visit to avoid missing out! :clock10:
Symbolic Entry Fee
A small fee of ~2€ is required for interior access. Cash is recommended. :euro:
Rooftop for Views
Don't miss the rooftop for stunning bay views, especially during sunset. :camerawithflash:
Explore the Exterior
The fortress exterior is accessible 24/7 and offers great photo opportunities. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Hours
Interior access is limited. Confirm hours before your visit to avoid missing out! :clock10:
Symbolic Entry Fee
A small fee of ~2€ is required for interior access. Cash is recommended. :euro:
Rooftop for Views
Don't miss the rooftop for stunning bay views, especially during sunset. :camerawithflash:
Explore the Exterior
The fortress exterior is accessible 24/7 and offers great photo opportunities. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Church-Fortress of St. Mary of Mercy a unique historical site, appreciating its dual church-fortress design and the lovely bay views from the rooftop. Some feel the entrance fee is a bit high for the limited interior exhibits, and note the restricted opening hours can be inconvenient.
"Famous church with nice view over the bay🔭"
Damir Tadić
"Something to see/do in Vrboska. 2€ admission. Open 10-12. Outside is open 24/7. No information is provided outside on why a church is part fortress."
Elisa H Barney
"Church and fortress in one.. awesome look on city entrance on the sea side. working hours are from 10-12 and 18-20:30. Ticket price is symbolic"
Mirjana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Church-Fortress is a prominent landmark at the entrance of Vrboska from the sea. It's easily walkable within the town. If arriving by car, there is parking available nearby, though it can be limited during peak season.
Vrboska is a charming village on the island of Hvar. You can reach Hvar by ferry from Split, and then take a bus or taxi to Vrboska. The journey offers scenic views of the Adriatic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The interior of the church-fortress is typically open from 10 AM to 12 PM and again from 6 PM to 8:30 PM. The exterior grounds are accessible 24/7. It's always a good idea to double-check locally as hours can vary.
There is a small, symbolic entrance fee of approximately 2€ (or 15 Croatian Kuna) to access the interior and the rooftop.
Yes, the exterior of the fortress is accessible at any time, allowing you to admire its unique architecture and take photos from the outside.
No, advance booking is generally not required. Tickets can be purchased on-site during opening hours. It's advisable to have cash for the small fee.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior offers a dramatic silhouette, especially from the waterfront. The rooftop provides stunning panoramic views of Vrboska and the bay, perfect for landscape shots.
Photography is generally permitted inside the church and fortress, but it's always respectful to be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for both exterior and interior shots. The evening opening hours are particularly good for capturing the bay in soft light.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Originally built as a defensive structure in the 16th century to protect against Ottoman raids, it was later converted into a church. This dual purpose gives it a unique architectural character.
It's a rare example of a fortified church, showcasing robust defensive walls and towers integrated with religious elements. This blend reflects the turbulent history of the region.
Visitors have noted interesting graffiti in the tower, with some dating back to the early 20th century, offering a personal touch from past visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Dual Nature: Church and Fortress
Visitors often remark on the striking visual of a building that clearly served both spiritual and protective purposes. The exterior showcases the formidable nature of a fortress, while the interior houses the solemnity of a church. This unique blend is a key reason why it's considered a must-see in Vrboska. The historical context of its construction highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of the communities living along the Adriatic coast during that era.
Experiencing the Vrboska Views
Travelers recommend visiting during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. The soft, warm hues of the morning or evening sun cast a magical glow over the landscape, making for unforgettable photographs. Even if you choose not to enter the interior, the exterior views from the surrounding area are also quite lovely, offering a sense of the fortress's imposing presence against the sea.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit