Holy Redeemer Church

The Church of the Holy Redeemer (Crkva Presvetog Otkupitelja) in Otavice, in the municipality of Ružić, is the family mausoleum of Ivan Meštrović, one of Croatia's most important sculptors of the twentieth century. It stands on a hill in the Dalmatian hinterland, a short drive from Drniš and Šibenik, and serves as both a house of worship and the final resting place of the artist's whole family.

What is the Church of the Holy Redeemer?

It is a church and a tomb in one. The burial area lies in an underground crypt, while religious services take place in the upper church, as Meštrović himself wished. The artist, his parents, siblings, wife and children are laid to rest here. Meštrović died in Indiana on 16 January 1962 and was interred in this church on 24 January of the same year.

Who designed it, and when was it built?

Meštrović drew up the architectural project himself. It was realised by the architects Harold Bilinić and Lavoslav Horvat, with Marin Marasović as the builder. Sources disagree on the dates: some give 1928–1930, others 1926–1930. Either way, the building dates from the late 1920s and 1930s, during the sculptor's lifetime.

Where exactly is it?

The church rises on Paraćeva glavica, a small hill in the northwestern part of Petrovo polje. It is about a ten-minute walk from the Meštrović family house in Otavice, so a visit combines easily with the rest of the museum complex dedicated to the artist. Driving from Drniš or Šibenik takes only a short while.

What can you see inside?

The interior is austere and contemplative. The dome's vault was left undecorated, which means the church was never fully completed, and that unfinished quality has become part of its character. The altar features an unusual depiction of Christ titled Eternally Crucified. It is among the most striking examples of Meštrović's sacred work, from an artist better known for monumental sculpture and public memorials.

Why visit?

The site lets you understand the artist through the landscape he came from, not only through works displayed in museums. Otavice is his home village, and the hilltop church is at once an artwork, a family memorial and an important piece of Croatian cultural heritage. For travellers exploring Dalmatia, it offers a quiet alternative to the busy coast.

Frequently asked questions

Are services held in the church? Yes, the church part is used for liturgy, although one source says Mass is held here only once a month.

Is the church finished? Not entirely. The dome was left undecorated, so the interior remains somewhat unfinished.

How does visiting work? The church is part of the Ivan Meštrović museums. Opening hours differ between sources, so check the official museum website for current information before you travel.

Can I see the artist's family house? Yes, it is about ten minutes on foot from the church, in the same village of Otavice.

What does the name mean? Redeemer is a title of Christ. The church is dedicated to the Holy Redeemer, and the altar's central motif is the crucified Christ.