The historic centre of Jelsa has quite a few sites. The Church of St. Mary, built in 1331 in the Gothic style, has four chapels and impressive pieces of art.

Historic Centre of Jelsa

The coastal town of Jelsa is an oasis that combines ancient discoveries and modern experiences. Come to relax and stay for the great food and atmosphere.

The town of Jelsa is surrounded by thick pine forests and tall poplar trees. It has a relaxed village atmosphere based around a once-prosperous port. – © zstock / Shutterstock

Jelsa, on the eastern side of the Stari Grad Plain, has a population of about 4,000 people. Surrounded by thick pine forests and tall poplar trees, it has a relaxed village atmosphere based around a once-prosperous port.

The historic centre of Jelsa has quite a few sites that can easily fill a day of exploration. Of note is the Church of St. Mary, built in 1331 in the Gothic style. It has four chapels and some impressive pieces of art.

Other churches in the historic centre of Jelsa worth seeing are Our Lady of Health from 1535 with a beautiful view from the top of Racic Hill, the small Church of St. Roko with an impressive painting of the Virgin Mary at the altar, and the Church of St. Mihovil from 1463. The charming St. Ivan’s square is a Renaissance-style piazza grouped around a unique octagonal chapel. It offers one of the best-preserved parts of Jelsa.

And one of the largest and most beautiful parks in the Dalmatian region can be found in Jelsa. The Perivoj was created in 1870 and has poplars, pines, palm trees, and classic Mediterranean plants.

While you’re exploring Jelsa, you may also come across some of the remnants of the original walls from the ancient city. It’s further evidence of the centuries of history that can be discovered in the town. But don’t forget to take time to enjoy everything that the contemporary lifestyle offers: great food and a casual mood.