St John the Baptist Church (Stora Crkva) | One of the Oldest Sacred Buildings in Milna

St John the Baptist Church is located near Osibova Cove, a few kilometres southwest of Milna. Nestled among pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation, away from the main tourist routes, it represents one of the lesser-known yet historically significant landmarks in the western part of Brač.

Among the residents of Milna, the church is also known as Stora Crkva. This name has been used for generations to distinguish it from the newer parish church in the centre of the town. Even today, many locals refer to this historical building in that way, reflecting its importance in local tradition and the collective memory of the area.

In contrast to the parish church of Our Lady of the Annunciation, which dominates the Milna waterfront, Stora Crkva is situated in a tranquil natural setting above the sea. Surrounded by olive groves, dry stone walls, and Mediterranean flora, a visit to this site offers a good insight into the traditional landscape of western Brač.

The church is considered one of the oldest preserved sacred sites in the Milna area. Historians suggest that this region was linked to early settlement and economic activities before Milna developed into a significant maritime and shipbuilding centre. Consequently, Stora Crkva holds a special place in the history of the town and is often mentioned among the oldest traces of organised religious life in this part of the island.

The building is modest in size and constructed from local Brač stone. Its simple architecture is characteristic of smaller Dalmatian churches that have served surrounding hamlets, farmers, and families working the land near present-day Osibova for centuries. This simplicity is one of its greatest values today.

The location above the sea adds a particular beauty to the site. Nearby is Osibova Cove, one of the most well-known natural coves in the Milna area, so many visitors combine their visit to the church with a walk or a swim. The peace, quiet, and natural surroundings create a completely different experience compared to the bustling centre of the town during the summer season.

The feast of St John the Baptist is celebrated on 24 June, and the saint to whom the church is dedicated is one of the most revered figures in Christian tradition. Over the centuries, local communities have gathered around such smaller churches to mark important religious holidays and preserve customs that shaped the lives of the islanders.

Today, the church is most easily accessed via the road leading to Osibova Cove, followed by a short walk. Due to its location outside the main tourist flows, it remains a peaceful spot frequented by those interested in history, cultural heritage, and authentic island locales.

Although it is not among the most famous landmarks of Brač, St John the Baptist Church – Stora Crkva – represents an important part of Milna's history. Its age, local significance, and position in unspoiled nature make it an intriguing destination for those wishing to explore the lesser-known side of Brač.