Tucked away in the quiet hills of inland Dalmatia lies Otavice, a picturesque village that holds one of Croatia’s most emotionally powerful and artistically unique landmarks — the Meštrović Family Mausoleum. This extraordinary structure is not just a tomb; it is a monument to legacy, heritage, and timeless beauty.
The mausoleum, officially known as the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer (Crkva Presvetog Otkupitelja), was designed and built by the famed Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović, one of the most significant artists of the 20th century. Completed in the 1930s, the structure stands as a personal and family monument — Meštrović designed it as the final resting place for himself and his closest relatives. He even participated in its construction, blending art, architecture, and emotion into one breathtaking whole.
Approaching the site, you’re struck by the harmony between the building and the rugged Dalmatian landscape. The exterior, constructed from local stone, reflects both Romanesque and Byzantine influences. Yet it is the interior that truly leaves visitors speechless: simple, circular, and bathed in natural light. Every surface, from the altar to the sculpted reliefs, bears Meštrović’s unmistakable touch — solemn, powerful, deeply human.
The setting itself adds to the mausoleum’s quiet grandeur. Surrounded by cypress trees and rolling hills, Otavice offers a peaceful contrast to Croatia’s busy coastal cities. It’s a place for reflection, far from crowds, where history, spirituality, and nature meet.
Visiting Otavice isn’t just about seeing a monument — it’s about feeling a deeper connection to Croatia’s cultural soul. Whether you're a lover of art, history, or simply beautiful landscapes, this hidden treasure offers a moment of calm and inspiration.
Opening hours: 10:00 - 18:00, Sat & Sun 10:00 - 15:00, Closed Mon. Admission: 3 - 5€. Web: https://mestrovic.hr/
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