Monastery of St. Mary of Mercy

Monastery of St. Mary of Mercy stands in Prvić Luka, the main settlement on the small island of Prvić in Šibenik-Knin County, Croatia. The complex combines a church and a monastery, and it is among the most important historical landmarks on the island.

What is the history of the monastery?

Construction of the church and monastery began in 1461, after Glagolitic friars had settled in Prvić Luka. These friars turned the village into a notable centre of Slavonic liturgy, which used the Glagolitic script. Some travel guides describe the monastery as Franciscan, so the sources differ on the order, but they agree on the starting year. Building work was still under way in 1479, which suggests that the complex took years to finish.

Over the centuries the monastery was rebuilt several times. A major fire in 1884 destroyed much of it, and it was completely renovated afterwards. The bell tower dates from 1885. The fire also took a heavy toll on the archive: many documents written in Glagolitic were burned.

What can you see inside the church?

The church has five baroque altars that decorate its interior. Set into one of its walls is an early Christian fragment carved with a cross, a reminder that the island was settled long before the monastery was founded.

Who is buried here?

The church is the resting place of Faust Vrančić, the scientist and inventor from the Šibenik region. He died in Venice in 1617, but according to his own wish his remains were brought back to Prvić Luka and laid in the Church of Our Lady of Mercy. In 2012 a memorial centre dedicated to him opened in the village, so a visit to the monastery fits naturally with a walk to the centre.

Visiting tips

• Prvić Luka is a small, quiet harbour village, and everything is within walking distance.
• The monastery is close to the waterfront, so you can combine it with a stroll along the harbour.
• Dress modestly, since this is an active place of worship.
• Opening hours vary by season, so check locally before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the monastery? In Prvić Luka, on the island of Prvić near Vodice, in Šibenik-Knin County.

When was it built? Work started in 1461, and it was still continuing in 1479.

Why did it need renovation? A big fire in 1884 damaged it, and the monastery was fully renovated afterwards.

Is there a link to Faust Vrančić? Yes. His remains were transported to the church here, according to his wish, after he died in 1617.

Can I see the interior? The church has five baroque altars and an early Christian cross fragment in a wall, but access depends on local opening times.