Križ na Srđu

High atop Mount Srđ, the Križ na Srđu stands as a beacon of faith and resilience. This isn’t just a cross. It’s a symbol of Dubrovnik’s enduring spirit. The original Križ na Srđu was erected in 1935. Bishop Josip Marija Carević envisioned this monument to commemorate 1900 years since Christ’s crucifixion. The cross was a community effort, built with Hvar stone and funded by the people of Dubrovnik. It was designed by engineers Ugo Vernazza and Silvio Sponza with input from architect Josip Plečnik. Tragically, on December 6, 1991, during the Croatian War of Independence, the cross was destroyed by Serbian-Montenegrin aggressors. The defenders of Mount Srđ quickly erected a makeshift wooden cross. This simple act declared their unwavering presence and protection of the city. The wooden cross became a symbol of hope during a dark time. In 1997, thanks to Bishop Želimir Puljić, a new stone cross was raised. This time, it was constructed with luminous white stone from the island of Brač. This resilient cross, blessed by Cardinal Franjo Kuharić, replaced the wooden one. It stands as a testament to the city’s unwavering faith. The remnants of the original and wooden crosses were later incorporated into new churches and altars throughout the Dubrovnik diocese. They were even blessed by Pope John Paul II during his visit to Dubrovnik in 2003. Every year before Easter and on Dubrovnik Defenders’ Day, a procession makes the “Way of the Cross” up Mount Srđ. This solemn event honors the sacrifices made to protect the city and its cherished symbol of faith, the Križ na Srđu.