The 10 Best Points of Interest & Landmarks in Kastela, Dalmatia

Following the examples of Romans from Salona who built their summer villa’s here, in late 15th century Archbishop Alverado choose this site to build his summer residence. A mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles the structure was later fortified. The old keep houses the “Podvorje” gallery with a selection of archaeological exhibition, collected, from nearby finds.

Dedicated to St. John the Baptist, patron saint of Kastel Stari this Baroque church was consecrated in 1641. It features five marble altars and its treasures include the revered miraculous icon Our Lady of Grace, as well as tomb of St. Felicio Christian martyr from 4th century, who is the local patron saint.

This monumental church is one of the largest in central Dalmatia Constructed as a three nave basilica the church and its marble interior stretch over 400m in length. The southern chapel is dedicated to Our lady of Rosary. Next to the church is an shaded wood grove with palm trees and cypresses.

Under the shade of 700 year old oak stands this pre-Romanesque church. Constructed in 12th century, this was a place of Christian worship for even longer than that. With the relics of saints it also keeps the relics of Hungarian king Stephen. Another king, Zvonimir of Croatia, gave this land to the Benedictine nuns.

Rising on a small reef near the shore, this fort was built by the Benedictine nuns in 1545. It used to be known as “The nun’s fort” and it served as a nucleus of future settlement of Kastel Gomilica. Thee old wooden drawbridge was replaced by a stone bridge as the place expanded following the easing of Turkish raids.

Built in 1392 the fort served as a safe haven for the local villagers in times of danger. It is the oldest remaining fortifications in the Kastela area, whose rusty cannon is still casting its protective shadow over the place.

This cylindrically shaped castle with a spectacular tower, was built by Florentine emigres, brothers Jerolim and Nikola Cambi, in 15th century. The fortification provided a safe haven for nearby villagers who settled here over the following centuries. Next to the castle is the family's Renaissance villa with a family crest dating its construction to 1589.

Legend has it that Croatian King Zvonimir once rested under this protected national monument.

This is an old Croatian church built in the 12th century. Next to it is an old cemetery with standing tomb-stones.