Church of the Holy Spirit on Hum – View from the Highest Point of the Island of Vis

High above Komiža, on Hum, stands the Church of the Holy Spirit, one of the smallest and simplest churches on the island of Vis. It is situated at approximately 560 meters above sea level, just below the highest peak of Vis. Hum reaches 587 meters, but its highest point is not accessible to visitors, making the area around the Church of the Holy Spirit a common destination for excursions and ascents to Hum.

The visit to Hum is not solely for the church itself. From this elevated position, one of the most beautiful views of the western part of Vis is revealed. Deep below, Komiža and Komiža Bay can be seen, with the island of Biševo in front, and on particularly clear days, the distant rock of Jabuka is visible. The combination of the small stone church, the rugged landscape, and the open view of the sea makes this place distinctly different from the attractions in the center of Komiža.

The church appears almost like an old stone cottage from the outside. It has narrow doors and only two small windows, lacking the ornate façade or bell tower found on larger churches in Komiža. The most significant architectural detail is the Gothic vault, which suggests that the church dates back to the 15th century, although the exact time of its construction is not entirely certain.

The church is also associated with an interesting history. During the Austrian administration, religious services were banned here for several years. However, the tradition has not disappeared – today, mass is held here once a year, on the feast of the Holy Spirit, fifty days after Easter.

How to Reach the Church of the Holy Spirit

Hum can be accessed by car or on foot. An asphalt road from the direction of Žene Glave leads almost to the church itself, so it is not necessary to complete the entire hiking ascent for a visit. The road distance from Komiža to the church area is approximately 11 kilometers, while from the town of Vis it is about 14.5 kilometers.

A more interesting option for walking enthusiasts is the ascent from Komiža itself. The Croatian Mountaineering Association estimates the route Komiža – St. Spirit on Hum to take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of walking. The ascent goes from sea level to over 560 meters above sea level, so although the distance is not great, one should prepare for a serious climb. In summer, it is best to start early in the morning or later in the afternoon and to bring enough water and appropriate footwear.

Hum can also be combined with a visit to Tito's Cave. It can be reached from the road leading to Hum, and there are well-maintained stone steps leading to the entrance. Therefore, the Church of the Holy Spirit, the viewpoint on Hum, and Tito's Cave can be effectively combined into one excursion into the interior of the island.

It should be noted that the church is not at the very top of Hum at 587 meters. The highest point is located nearby but is not accessible to the public. For visitors, the final and most interesting point is the area around the Church of the Holy Spirit, at approximately 560–564 meters, from where a panoramic view of Komiža and the open sea is available.

Unlike the attractions in the center of Komiža, one should not expect a typical tourist visit here. Hum is primarily a place for views, a brief stay in silence, or a hiking excursion. It is particularly beautiful to visit when visibility is good, as this is when it is best appreciated how deep Komiža lies beneath the slopes of Hum and how close Biševo is to the western coast of Vis.