Taken inside the courtyard, this virtual tour shows the remains of the oldest Christian Basilica in Croatia. It is found at the top of a hill in Povlja, and a new church now occupies part of the site. Panorama taken in September 2011.

5th Century Christian Basilica in Povlja - Brac Island visitor guide showing a virtual tour of '5th Century Christian Basilica in Povlja' linked to an interactive map with local and travel information. 360° panoramas from Split-Dalmatia County.

Situated on the highest point in Povlja, these remains of a 5/6th century Christian basilica are 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. The current parish church of St John the Baptist has been built near the site of the original basilica.

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.

Povlja shares the Eastern end of Brac Island with Sumartin - slightly larger with a population of about 700. Though the area is growing as a tourist destination it still makes for a lovely quiet romantic or family holiday. Boat trips can easily be arranged to sheltered coves, beaches or to visit the mainland. There are walking and bicycle trails through the pine forests and olive groves. The unspoilt surrounding Mediterranean scenery provides a constant source of delight.

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.