St. Lucy Church (Crkva sv. Lucije)

St. Lucy Church (Crkva sv. Lucije) in Jurandvor, just north of Baška on Krk Island, Croatia, is a remarkable Romanesque church with deep historical and cultural significance. Dating back to around 1100, the church stands on the site of a much older 6th-century structure and was once a graveyard for early Christianized Croats. Over the centuries, it has seen several renovations, including the addition of a bell tower in the 14th century, which was later reconstructed in the 19th century.

The church is best known as the home of the Baška Tablet, a replica of which is displayed inside. Discovered in 1851, the Baška Tablet is an 11th-century stone inscription written in Glagolitic script, notable for containing the earliest known reference to a Croatian king in the Croatian language. Visitors can watch a video about the tablet’s discovery and significance, adding depth to the experience. The church’s porch also features a Roman column and gravestone, evidence of the site’s ancient roots.

Inside, you’ll find a statue of St. Lucy depicting her martyrdom, and on her feast day (December 13), sunlight dramatically illuminates the inscription dedicated to her. The church is easily accessible on foot from Baška, just 2 km away, making it a convenient and rewarding stop for those interested in Croatia’s medieval heritage, early Christianity, and the origins of the Croatian language.