Blaca Hermitage

Nestled in the rugged heart of Brač, Blaca Hermitage stands as a testament to human perseverance and spirit—a place so remarkable that UNESCO recognized it as a candidate for the World Heritage Tentative List.

The story of Blaca begins in 1551 when two Glagolithic monks from Poljica, fleeing the looming threat of the Ottoman invasion, sought refuge in a cave. What started as a humble shelter evolved over time into a sanctuary—a church and monastery carved into the rock itself. Life in Blaca was never easy. The monks battled harsh climates, treacherous terrain, and constant pirate raids. Yet their persistence never wavered. Over the centuries, their tireless efforts built more than just a shelter. They forged a thriving community—a school for local children, a cultural center with a library, and even an observatory that reached for the stars.

At its zenith, Blaca Hermitage was a hub of productivity, with its residents producing olive oil, wine, honey, and other goods from the fertile valley. The legacy of the Glagolithic monks lived on until 1963, when the last monk, Nikola Milićević, passed away, and the hermitage ceased its religious functions. Today, the echoes of their hard work and resilience remain preserved in Blaca, now a museum that honors their enduring legacy.

2×45 min walk through Blaca Walley to Blaca Hermitage and back.