Church of Our Lady of the Annunciation | Heart of Milna and Symbol of Its Maritime History

The Church of Our Lady of the Annunciation is located on the northern side of Milna's harbor, above the stone steps that rise from the waterfront to the old town center. With its slender façade and tall bell tower, it has represented the most recognizable sacred and historical symbol of Milna for over two centuries. It is visible from almost every part of the harbor, making it the first striking sight for many visitors arriving at one of the most beautiful coastal towns on Brač.

The current parish church was built in 1783 according to the design of the renowned Trogir builder Ignazio Macanović, one of the most important Dalmatian builders of the 18th century. Constructed in the late Baroque style from Brač stone, it is considered one of the most valuable sacred monuments on the island of Brač.

Interestingly, the bell tower is older than the church itself. It was erected in the late 16th century and is attributed to the well-known Dalmatian builder Trifun Bokanić. Its most recognizable feature is the stone human masks – maskaroni – carved on the upper part of the bell tower. These unusual decorations continue to attract the attention of visitors today and represent one of the most interesting architectural details in Milna.

The church was built during a period of significant economic development for the town. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Milna was a well-known shipbuilding and maritime center, with numerous captains, shipowners, and merchants investing in the town's development. Thanks to their wealth and connection to the sea, a representative parish church was created to reflect Milna's importance on the maritime routes of the Adriatic at that time.

The interior of the church is as impressive as its exterior. The space is divided into three naves supported by stone columns, adorned with valuable marble altars, rich stuccos, and artworks by Venetian painters from the 18th century. Notably, the altar painting of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary stands out as one of the most valuable artistic works in the church.

It is less known that within the current complex lies an older church dedicated to Saint Mary, built in 1519. This represents the oldest preserved sacred structure in Milna and testifies to the period before the town became an important maritime center.

The Church of Our Lady of the Annunciation remains the center of religious life in Milna and a gathering place during the most significant church events. Although it is dedicated to Our Lady of the Annunciation, the largest and most famous festival in Milna takes place on July 16, the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. On this day, Milna celebrates its most important summer holiday with a solemn mass, a procession through the town, a cultural program, concerts, and a traditional public celebration that brings together locals, their guests, and numerous sailors. During these days, the entire town lives in a special atmosphere, and the parish church remains one of the main gathering places and an important symbol of Milna's identity.

Today, the Church of Our Lady of the Annunciation is an essential stop for anyone wishing to learn about the history of Milna. Its architecture, valuable artistic heritage, and connection to maritime tradition make it one of the most important cultural monuments on the western side of Brač.