Makarska

Makarska is a town located in the southern part of Croatia and is a popular tourist destination in the area collectively called the Makarska riviera.

Sights & Activities

Makarska boasts of having some of the finest beaches in the area, visited by tourists from all over Europe and the world. The waters are clear enough for a day of swimming and snorkeling. Equipment for water sports can also be hired by those wishing to try water skiing, jet skiing, and wind surfing. Boats can also be rented for sailing and fishing.

There is also a promenade along the town’s foreshore, lined with small cafes and quaint shops. Many locals and visitors stroll along the promenade to enjoy the refreshing breeze and behold romantic sunsets.

One interesting attraction of Makarska is the Church of St. Mark the Evangelist, located on the Main Square. Built in the 17th century and consecrated a century later, it contains the remains of St. Clement, patron saint of the archdiocese of Makarska. The remains are placed on the altar near the entrance of the church. Another interesting sight of the church are life-sized statues portraying the Cavalry. On the main altar are statues of the saints Mark and Jeronim, patrons of the parish. The church is also the burial place of several past bishops of Makarska. It underwent a lot of restorations, including those done after an earthquake in 1962. Visitors can also see the Treasury of the Church, which contains all the items acquired by the diocese. Among the numerous items displayed are several tabernacles, religious relics, crosses, paintings, and all kinds of art works made by foreign and Croatian artists.

Other churches in town include the St. Philip’s Church and the St. Peter’s Church, built in the 18th and 13th centuries, respectively.

Makarska is also the location of the Franciscan Monastery of Blessed Virgin Mary. Built in the 16th century, it has suffered numerous damages during different times since its construction and had undergone numerous repairs and rebuilding. The monastery now houses the famous Malacological Museum that collects and displays numerous shells from all over the world, some of them quite rare. The museum was established in 1963 and is a major attraction of the town. There is also a library found within the monastery complex, a repository of rare books and documents.

The County Museum of the Makarska Littoral is housed within the historic Tonoli palace. This establishment, formerly called the Makarska Town Museum, displays items related to the history of the town and its surrounding areas.

Weather

Makarska is located on the foot of the Biokovo mountain, a geographic feature that protects the town from harsh weather conditions. This is also the reason why the town enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate that contributes to its popularity as a tourist destination. Winter is short and mild while summer is warm and sunshine is abundant the whole year through. The waters on the beaches are also comfortably warm and the sea breeze provides a cooling effect even during the peak days of summer. Those who can’t stand the hot summer temperature can come to Makarska during the spring season, where the air is definitely much cooler and more pleasant. The same can also be said during autumn, though the later part of October also experiences rain showers that become more frequent as winter approaches.