Church of Our Lady of Trsat

The Church of Our Lady of Trsat (Gospa Trsatska) is a Roman Catholic Marian shrine on Trsat hill in Rijeka, Croatia. It is regarded as the largest pilgrimage centre in western Croatia, drawing believers and curious visitors who climb up from the city centre.

What is the legend behind the shrine?

Tradition says angels carried the Holy House of Nazareth, the home of Mary, to Trsat on 10 May 1291. In December 1294 it was supposedly moved on to Loreto in Italy. Historians have not confirmed the story, yet it is what made the hill a sacred place. A chapel was raised here to commemorate the house's stay.

Who built the church?

The shrine's growth is tied to the Frankopan princes, the powerful noble family that ruled much of the Kvarner region. Tradition credits Nikola I Frankopan with the first chapel; sources disagree on the dates, and one gives 1431 for the church's foundation. In 1453 Martin Frankopan began a new church and a monastery for the Franciscans. The oldest parts of today's main nave and the sanctuary date from the late Gothic period. The Franciscans have looked after the shrine since the 15th century and still do.

What does the church look like?

Much of the present appearance comes from Baroque renovations carried out after a fire in 1629. The main altar was built in 1692. The interior is modest, and attention is drawn to the image of Our Lady. The Franciscan monastery stands next to the church, and together they form a single complex on the hilltop.

What is the image of Our Lady of Trsat?

The shrine is linked to a painting of Mary dated 1367. According to tradition, Pope Urban V gave it to the Croats after the Holy House was lost, which further strengthened the place's reputation as a pilgrimage goal. Pilgrims have come from across the region, and on 8 June 2003 Pope John Paul II took part in a pilgrimage procession here.

Visiting tips

• A long flight of steps, known as the Petar Kružić steps, climbs from central Rijeka and follows the old pilgrim route.
• Combine the visit with nearby Trsat Castle, which offers views over the Kvarner Bay and the city.
• This is a place of worship, so dress modestly and keep quiet during services.

Frequently asked questions

Is the church open all year? Yes, it is a working shrine with regular services. Check opening hours before you go.

Why is Trsat important to pilgrims? Because of the legend of Mary's house arriving from Nazareth and the image of Our Lady that has drawn pilgrims for centuries.

Who looks after the shrine? Franciscans, who have lived in the neighbouring monastery since the 15th century.

Can I walk up from the centre? Yes, a steep but well-marked pilgrims' staircase leads up from central Rijeka.

Is there an entrance fee? Entry to the church is usually free, but confirm on site.