Church of Our Lady of Health (18th century)

Located in Gornja Brela at the Gornja Mala site, the Church of Our Lady of Health is a gem of folk sacral architecture and has been a protected cultural monument since 1988.

From neglect to renewed splendor
While it stood as a silent witness to the turbulent shifts of power—from the Ottoman Empire to the Venetian Republic—the church was retired from liturgical use in 1939 and left to the mercy of time. Its rescue began five years ago, sparked by the initiative of the "Brolanenses" Society of Friends of Brela Heritage, a dedicated group of local history enthusiasts.

A comprehensive restoration project, valued at nearly €100,000, was officially completed in November 2025. Through the joint efforts of the Municipality of Brela, Biokovo Nature Park, and the Split-Dalmatia County, the structure was statically stabilized, the roof was reconstructed, and the walls and altar were meticulously restored.

Architecture and history
The church was built in the Rustic Baroque style, characterized by the simple yet robust lines typical of the Dalmatian hinterland. The year 1751 is carved into the lintel above the door, marking its origin. Throughout history, the church was referred to by various names by the Bishops of Makarska—including Our Lady of the Rosary and the Church of the Immaculate Conception—before its current name became established in the 19th century.

The legacy of Gornja Brela
Today, the old Church of Our Lady of Health stands as a symbol of victory over time. While liturgical life moved to the new church of the same name in 1939 (located west of the road in Subotišće), this historic chapel remains an invaluable monument and a breathtaking destination for those seeking the authentic history of the region.

Location: Gornja Mala, Gornja Brela
Status: protected Cultural Good (since 1988)
Restoration: completed in November 2025