St. Kajo

The Chapel of St. Kajo (St. Caius) is a small chapel on the slopes of Biokovo above Brela, on Croatia's Makarska Riviera. It stands on a rocky outcrop at roughly 494 m above sea level, beside an old path linking Lower and Upper Brela. Today it is a popular stop for walkers heading toward the Nevista pass.

What is the chapel of St. Kajo?

It is described locally as one of the oldest preserved chapels in the area. Tourism sources say it was built in the 18th century and first mentioned in 1768, with the construction encouraged by Bishop Nikola Bijanković of Makarska. A source from the Biokovo nature park gives 1786 instead, so the exact year varies depending on where you read it.

The chapel is dedicated to Saint Caius, a pope of Dalmatian origin. "St. Kajo" is the local form of the name, which is how it appears on map databases.

Why is it here?

The site sits on a strategic mountain passage along an old route between the coast and the higher part of the village. Prehistoric and medieval burial grounds lie nearby, which shows how long people have used this route. Below the chapel you can also spot traces of the so-called French Road, also known as Napoleon's Road.

Legends of the place

Two folk tales are tied to the area. In the first, the Virgin Mary appeared on a nearby saddle and warned the people of Brela about an attack by pirates from Senj, so the village was spared. A cross reportedly marked the spot, and travellers kissed it as they passed. The second concerns a wheel-shaped stone slab above the chapel, said to be a dancing ground of fairies. Elders warned children not to step across it. These are folklore, not documented history.

Views and getting there

The surroundings offer a panorama of the Makarska Riviera and its islands. The chapel lies on a historic trail toward the Nevista pass and often features in hiking loops that start in Brela. One described route is about 11 km with more than 700 m of climbing, so good fitness helps.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the chapel of St. Kajo? On the Biokovo slopes above Brela, Croatia, at about 494 m above sea level.

How old is it? It is most often dated by its first mention in 1768; one source lists 1786.

Is it worth the walk? Yes, if you enjoy a short stop with a view and a bit of local history on the trail. The route climbs, so bring water and sturdy shoes.

Is it a large site? No. It is a modest wayside chapel, not a religious complex with tourist facilities.

What else is there to see nearby? In Upper Brela, at about 572 m, stands the Church of St. Nicholas, described as the oldest church in Brela. Its origins are dated roughly to 1200–1500. Together the two sites show that the Biokovo slopes hold plenty of cultural heritage, not just views and trails.