Temples & religious sites
Dominican monastery in Arbanija
Dominican Monastery in Arbanija
Located in the village of Arbanija on the island of Čiovo, this Dominican monastery complex features the Church of the Holy Cross and a bell tower dating back to the mid-15th century. Visitors go here to see the original architectural forms of the period, specifically the wooden interior decorations and the paintings on the church ceiling, set against a coastal village backdrop.
Getting There
To reach the monastery from Split city centre, you must cross to the island of Čiovo via the bridge. The journey can be made by car or local bus. Depending on traffic, the trip typically takes between 30 and 50 minutes.
Visit Duration
Because the site is modest in scale, allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to walk through the grounds and examine the interior of the church.
When to Visit
The site is generally quiet, though the surrounding coastal area becomes busier during the summer months. Visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekday mornings avoids the peak tourist flow associated with the Dalmatian coast.
Nearby Attractions
The monastery can be combined with other sites on Čiovo and the nearby mainland:
- Čiovo (1.9km)
- Castle Štafileo (5.1km)
- Cippico Castle (5.2km)
- Crkva sv. Ivana Krstitelja in Kaštel Stari (5.7km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors