Monastery in Malinska

The Franciscan Monastery in Malinska is a peaceful and historically rich site on the island of Krk, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Established in the late 15th century and granted to the Franciscan Friars of the Third Order in 1480, the monastery has long served as a center of religious life in the Dubašnica area. Its current structure, with a charming cloister and central well, dates back to the 17th century, while the chapel is dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene.

Inside, visitors find a marble altar crafted in Venice in 1730 and a striking polyptych of Saint Mary Magdalene. The monastery is also notable for its collection of valuable manuscripts, including the Žgombić and Sabljić Miscellanies, and for its Lapidarium, established by Branko Fučić, which preserves local stone artifacts. The Glagolitic Franciscans who lived here were known for their devotion to prayer, agriculture, and the transcription of religious texts in the ancient Glagolitic script.

While the monastery is compact and can be explored in under an hour, it offers a tranquil setting for reflection and a deeper appreciation of the island’s history. Visitors should be aware that opening hours are not always clearly posted, and access may be inconsistent. Nonetheless, for those interested in religious history or local culture, the Franciscan Monastery in Malinska is a rewarding stop.