Church of Our Lady of Sorrows – New Church in Komiža

The Church of Our Lady of Sorrows is situated in the old part of Komiža, just a few steps from Kaštela Komuna and the waterfront. Locals refer to it as the New Church, as it is the youngest among the historical churches in the area. It was built in 1759 at the initiative of the local priest and writer Mihovil Milinković, with financial contributions from the residents.

The church is located among old stone houses, on what is now the Square of Our Lady of Sorrows, making it easy to include in a walk through the historic core of Komiža. Due to the dense construction around it, the church could not be oriented in the same way as most older churches on the island, and its position was adapted to the existing streets and houses.

At first glance, it appears simple, but it is worth pausing in front of its façade. Above it is a late Baroque bell gable, while inside the church is a small Gothic font that predates the building itself and is believed to have been transferred from the Church of St. Nicholas – Muster. On the small marble altar, there is a painting of Our Lady of Sorrows, and the interior also features images of St. Jerome and the Virgin Mary with Child and saints.

The reason for constructing the church was quite practical. At that time, there was no church in the immediate vicinity of this part of Komiža, and the new church was intended to facilitate quicker communion for the sick and dying. This purpose is reflected in the Latin inscription on the façade. Unlike many smaller historical churches that open only on special occasions, the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows still serves for regular church ceremonies today.

No special trip or car is needed to visit. The church is located in the very center of old Komiža and is best accessed on foot during a stroll from the waterfront towards Komuna and the surrounding old streets. The small square in front of the church is also part of the local life – throughout the year, cultural events, concerts, and programs such as the Komiža event dedicated to the poet Jakša Fiamengo are held here.