Virtual tour showing the main courtyard of Crikvine KaÅ¡telet, the summer house of MeÅ¡trović which now contains some of his works of art in a converted chapel. Image taken September 2011.

Crikvine Kastelet - Split visitor guide showing a virtual tour of 'Crikvine Kastelet' linked to an interactive map with local and travel information. 360° panoramas from Split-Dalmatia County.

The Crikvine Kaštelet stands on the coastline on the southern edge of the Marjan Hill a little west of Split city center. It was initially a 16th century summer house that was built for the Capogrosso family providing both a summer retreat and possible defence against the Turks. During the centuries the complex lost status and became at different times a tannery and lazaretto for plague victims.

In 1939 the complex was brought by Ivan MeÅ¡trović, a local artist, who, with the help of Harold Bilinic, set about renovating the dilapidated buildings. Part of this involved incorporating the Holy Crucifix Church, which contains a cycle of 28 wooden reliefs based on the life of Christ. Arguably his most stunning creation, the result of 20 years work, it incorporates motifs from ancient, medieval and modern art, resulting in an emotionally powerful piece of spiritual sculpture.

More of his work can be found at the MeÅ¡trović Gallery just down the road. Both of these are notable sights and attractions in Split, and entrance fees apply.

Kastelet-Crikvine
Setaliste Ivana Mestrovica 39,
Meje,
Split, Croatia, HR
Web: mdc.hr/mestrovic/kastelet

Bus: MeÅ¡trović Gallery (12, 7, 8) from city center.
Flight: Split International Airport found 20km west of Split, transfer by either taxi or bus.
Ferry: Regular ferries from Dubrovnik, Korcula, Mljet, Pescara, Rijeka, Vis, Hvar, Spetare (Brač), Stari Grad, Drvenik and Ancona in Italy.
Road: Split lies on the 8 coastal road, about 30km north of Omiš and 60km north of Makarska. It is 150km south of Zadar. Crikvine Kaštelet is just above Uvala Ježinac (Jezinac bay and beach) on Setaliste Ivana Mestrovica.