Ciovo Island

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The Island of Čiovo: A Hidden Gem in the Adriatic

Nestled off the coast of Trogir in Croatia, Čiovo is a small yet historically rich island in the Adriatic Sea, measuring 28.8 square kilometers (11.1 sq mi). It stretches 15.3 kilometers (9.5 mi) long, with a width reaching up to 3.5 kilometers (2.2 mi). Though modest in size, Čiovo boasts a fascinating history that spans several centuries. In the Middle Ages, it was home to many villages and served as a place for leper colonies. Archaeological finds, such as the remains of the pre-Romanesque Church of St. Peter near Slatine, provide a glimpse into the island’s early Christian heritage.

Throughout the centuries, Čiovo’s strategic location and natural beauty have attracted settlers, including refugees fleeing Ottoman invasions in the 15th century. At the same time, the island began to see suburban development from the nearby town of Trogir, which continues today. Today, Čiovo is a thriving holiday destination, renowned for its peaceful villages, coastal views, and its proximity to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Villages and Modern Appeal

Čiovo is home to several picturesque villages scattered across its rugged terrain. On the eastern side of the island, the charming village of Mastrinka lies just a short drive from Trogir, followed by Arbanija and Slatine, located towards the island’s southernmost tip. Over the hills, the small settlement of Žedno offers a quiet retreat from the busier tourist areas.

On the opposite side of the island, you’ll find Okrug Gornji and Okrug Donji, two villages that are particularly popular with visitors thanks to their stunning coastal views and sandy beaches. Further south, Mavarštica, Businci, and Rastići offer visitors the chance to experience Čiovo’s quieter, rural side. These villages are dotted with private villas and apartments, making Čiovo a popular base for those wanting to explore both the island and the nearby attractions of Trogir and Split.

A Rich Tapestry of Culture and Heritage

Čiovo is a treasure trove of cultural and historical sites. Many of its churches and monasteries are still in use today, each one offering insight into the island’s past. One of the island’s most prominent landmarks is the Franciscan Monastery of St. Anthony on the hill of Bilin Dolac. Dating back to the 17th century, the monastery houses an impressive collection of relics, including a silver crown adorned with jewels from the 14th century. Inside the church, you’ll find a stunning painting by Palma the Younger and a sculpture of St. Magdalene by renowned Croatian artist Ivan Duknović.

Continuing on the western side of Čiovo, in the village of Arbanija, you’ll find the Dominican Monastery of the Holy Cross (Sv. Križ), built in the 15th century. The monastery boasts a beautiful cloister and polychrome vaulted dining room, with several works of art by Matija Poncun and other notable artists. The Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Slatine, built in the 17th century, is another gem, with its elegant Baroque-style interior.

Another must-see is the Hermitage Church of Our Lady of Prizidnica, perched high on a cliff near Slatine. Built in 1546, this small, serene church was founded by a hermit priest, and the site is steeped in local legends and stories. The elderly locals of Slatine love to share the tales connected to this peaceful place, which makes for a fascinating visit.

In the village of Žedno, you’ll find two smaller but equally interesting churches: the Church of St. John from Trogir and the Church of St. Mauro, which dates back to the 4th century. The latter lends its name to the settlement Movarčica, now known as Mavarštica.

More Churches and Coastal Wonders

As you continue your journey around Čiovo, you’ll come across the Parish Church of St. Charles Borromeo in Okrug Gornji, built in 1735 on the site of an earlier chapel. This simple yet charming church is known for its rectangular design and two bells that ring out over the village.

On the south-western side of the island, near the beach, lies Fumija, a small island with the remains of a late antique or early medieval church of St. Fumija, along with farm buildings once used by Benedictine monks from Trogir. Continuing along the coast, you’ll encounter the Chapel of St. John the Baptist, a modest yet significant site that is thought to have been constructed by villagers sometime in the 17th century.

For those interested in the island’s more fortified past, the Citadel of St. John stands on a rocky outcrop in Kancelirovac Bay on Čiovo’s northwestern coast. Dating back to medieval times, the citadel was built as a fortress to defend the island from invaders. Not far from here is Racetinovac Bay, home to the Racettin Mansion and a small church dedicated to St. Anthony, constructed in 1630 by the local Racettin family.

The Church of St. Theodore and Copacabana Beach

One of the lesser-known but historically significant churches on Čiovo is the Church of St. Theodore, located near Copacabana Beach. Although its exact year of construction is unclear, the church is mentioned as early as 1439 and was built on the site of an earlier Croatian church. Declared a cultural monument in 1963, this church remains a peaceful place for contemplation, nestled next to the local cemetery and the turquoise waters of the Adriatic.

Conclusion

Čiovo is much more than a summer holiday destination—it is an island rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Its combination of serene beaches, charming villages, and numerous historical sites make it a wonderful place to explore, whether you are seeking a relaxing getaway or a deep dive into Croatia’s past. With its proximity to the UNESCO-listed town of Trogir, Čiovo offers a perfect balance of historic allure and modern convenience. From ancient churches to coastal vistas, Čiovo is a place that invites visitors to slow down, explore, and experience the timeless beauty of Croatia.

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