Monastery of Saint Jerome in Ugljan

The Monastery of Saint Jerome in Ugljan is a Franciscan monastery on the island of Ugljan, just off the coast of Zadar in northern Dalmatia, Croatia. Locals know it simply as Mostir, and it is one of the oldest and most valuable monuments on the island.

When was the Monastery of Saint Jerome built?

The church and the monastery date to 1430. According to tourism and heritage sources, they were built with the support of noble families from Zadar, and the Benja family of Zadar is associated with the site. That makes the complex a good example of how wealthy mainland families invested in religious buildings on the Zadar islands during the 15th century.

What does the monastery look like?

The complex combines Gothic and Romanesque elements. The church is Gothic, while the cloister has a Romanesque colonnade with carved capitals. The result is a calm, enclosed space of stone arches and a courtyard, typical of late medieval monastic architecture in Dalmatia. The cloister is sometimes used as a venue for summer concerts, which suits its acoustics and atmosphere.

What can you see inside and around it?

Several details make the visit worthwhile:

• The Ugljan polyptych by the painter Ivan Petrov, a Gothic altarpiece that one source describes as among the most valuable Gothic paintings of medieval Croatia.
• The epitaph of Šimun Kožičić-Benja (1460-1536) in the courtyard. He was a bishop and humanist linked to the Benja family, and he is remembered for the first book printed in Glagolitic script, a milestone in Croatian cultural history.
• The cloister itself, with its carved capitals and shaded courtyard.

Is the monastery open to visitors?

Opening is seasonal. Sources report that the monastery can be visited in summer, while the church is open during services. Hours change from year to year, so it is worth checking locally or with the Zadar archipelago tourist information before you go. Dress modestly, as this is still a religious site.

How do you get there?

Ugljan lies a short ferry ride from Zadar, with regular connections to the island's ports. Once on the island, the monastery can be reached by bike, car or on foot along local roads. The island is flat and green, covered with olive groves and pines, so cycling between the villages and the monastery is a popular way to explore.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded the Monastery of Saint Jerome? It was built in 1430 with the support of noble families from Zadar.

What style is it? A mix of Gothic and Romanesque, with a Gothic church and a Romanesque cloister.

What is the most important artwork? The Ugljan polyptych by Ivan Petrov.

Who is commemorated in the courtyard? Šimun Kožičić-Benja, associated with the first printed Glagolitic book.

Is it worth visiting? Yes, for history, art and a quiet stop away from the busy beaches, especially if you are already exploring Ugljan by bike.