Virtual tour showing the remains of the 5th century basilica church at the highest point in Povlja in Croatia. Image taken in September 2011.

Remains of Christian Basilica in Povlja - Brac Island visitor guide showing a virtual tour of 'Remains of Christian Basilica in Povlja' linked to an interactive map with local and travel information. 360° panoramas from Split-Dalmatia County.

Brac is the third largest island in the Adriatic Sea with a population of 13,000, living in numerous villages dotted around the island and the main town, Supetar. The harbour of Povlja has about 300 residents and is placed in a deep and natural bay on the eastern part of the island. The harbour is calm, being protected from high winds. It was one of the main anchorages (the other being Luke on the western side) for Roman ships. The inhabitants of Povlja largely concern themselves with wine making, olive farming and fishing, though tourism is a growing industry for this small village community.

Adjacent bays (Travna, Smokvica, Ticja luka, Tatinja) provide suitable and varied swimming locations.

The parish church of St John the Baptist in Povlja was built near the remains of a 5/6th century Christian basilica - the largest on the island. A ground plan with atrium, portal, sanctuary and baptistry have been preserved. The marble octagonal baptistry is the oldest in Croatia. There are also partially preserved frescoes.

St. John the Baptist Church
Povlja
Brac
Croatia

Ferry: Regular services from Makarska to Sumartin, 10km south of Povlja. Ferry from Split to Supetar, 42km west of Povlja.
Flight: Brac Airport, Split International Airport then ferry from either Split or Makarska.
Road: Povlja is at the end of the 6194 road, 42 km from Supetar.