Monastery and Church of Our Lady of Health

The Monastery and Church of Our Lady of Health, located in the heart of Split, are places of great historical, artistic, and social importance. Built in 1937 on the site of a previous 18th-century Baroque church, the current church is an example of modernist architecture designed by the architect from Zagreb, Lavoslav Horvat. The old Baroque church was demolished in the 1930s, but the Baroque bell tower was preserved, creating an interesting dialogue between the old and the new. The historical context of the Church of Our Lady of Health is deeply rooted in the Franciscan tradition. Franciscan friars, fleeing from Turkish Bosnia in the 18th century, founded the monastery in 1723. This period was characterized by great political and religious changes, with the local population seeking refuge and stability under the spiritual guidance of the friars. The Franciscan presence significantly influenced the cultural and religious development of the region. The architecture of the church reflects the period in which it was built. The simple and clean lines of modernism combine with traditional elements, creating a spiritual and contemplative environment. Inside, tall square columns clad in granite support an imposing ceiling, while the altar, sober yet elegant, invites reflection. This modernist design represents a departure from Baroque ornamentation, favoring instead a purer and more minimalist form of expression. The artistic importance of the complex is not limited to its architecture. The church houses several sacred works of art, including paintings and sculptures that reflect Marian devotion. Among the most significant works are a series of paintings illustrating the sacraments, created by various artists over the years. These works not only embellish the church but also serve as educational tools to explain the sacraments to the faithful. From a social perspective, the Monastery and Church of Our Lady of Health have played a central role in the life of the Split community. During the Yugoslav period, the monastery was a place of spiritual refuge and cultural resistance. Today, the church remains a point of reference for the local community, hosting masses, religious celebrations, and prayer meetings. Events such as the annual conference on the sacraments demonstrate the monastery’s commitment to education and the promotion of sacramental life. One of the most fascinating aspects of the church is its ability to unite tradition and modernity. The preservation of the Baroque bell tower next to the modernist structure symbolizes historical continuity and the church’s ability to adapt to the changing times. This balance between old and new is also evident in liturgical celebrations, which combine traditional elements with contemporary practices.