May 20th, 2026 – The Blaca Hermitage, a hidden gem on the island of Brač, stands as an extraordinary example of a settlement cut off from the world by its rugged location. Nestled between the rocky cliffs and dramatic southern coastline of the island, the hermitage is a place that has captivated visitors for centuries with its self-sufficient history and unique charm.

The Croatian word pustinja translates to hermitage, and this particular site, known as the Blaca Hermitage, is one of the most unusual historical locations in Croatia. The hermitage is located on the southern side of Brač, beneath the slopes of Vidova Gora, between Bol and Milna, in a remote area surrounded by steep stone terrain and difficult coastal access.

The origins of Blaca can be traced back to the 16th century, when Glagolitic priests fleeing Ottoman expansion found refuge inside a cave known as Ljubitovica. Over the centuries, these hermit monks transformed this isolated location into a remarkably advanced settlement, complete with a monastery, residential buildings, agricultural structures, vineyards, olive groves, and even an observatory.

Blaca was not just a religious settlement; it also became an important scientific and intellectual center. The observatory, in particular, reflected the monks’ deep interest in astronomy. Their scientific observations and astronomical work gained international attention, and the hermitage preserved hundreds of valuable books, manuscripts, and documents covering a wide range of subjects from theology to natural sciences.

Today, visitors have no choice but to reach the site on foot, either through Blaca Bay or from inland Brač. This final walk adds to the unique atmosphere of the hermitage, making it a truly unforgettable destination. The contrast between extreme physical isolation and strong scientific and educational ambition remains one of the most fascinating aspects of the site.