Most museums are built on land. You walk through halls, look at paintings on the walls and move from room to room.
But near the historic towns of Trogir and Split in Croatia, there is a museum that works very differently.
Here, the artworks are not displayed in galleries – they lie on the seabed of the Adriatic Sea.
This unique site is known as the Underwater Museum Croatia, and it is believed to be the only underwater museum in the world dedicated to the Stations of the Cross.
What makes this place even more special is that it can only be reached by boat. There is no road access and it is not possible to arrive by car. Visitors can reach the site either with their own private boats or by joining daily excursion boats departing from Split and Trogir.
The underwater museum is located in Jelinak Bay, a peaceful private resort surrounded by clear turquoise waters. Far from houses, roads and the noise of cars, the bay offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere where visitors can truly enjoy the beauty of the Adriatic.
Guests can spend time both in and out of the sea, as the bay offers sun umbrellas, loungers, an aqua park, and a beach and food bar, making it an ideal place to relax after exploring the underwater sculptures.
A Unique Underwater Sculpture Installation
The museum consists of 14 Stations of the Cross, represented by sculptures placed on the seabed. Altogether the installation includes more than 50 life-size sculptures forming a remarkable underwater path.
At the end of this path stands the most impressive piece – a large statue of Jesus rising from the sea floor, reaching around 8 metres in height.
Most of the sculptures are placed at depths of 4 to 5 metres, making them accessible to visitors who want to explore the site while snorkeling.
Because of the clear Adriatic waters, the sculptures are often visible even from the surface.
Discover the Military Plane – Soko Jastreb J-21
The Soko Jastreb J-21, a single-seat attack jet, has been restored and placed 10 meters underwater. This unique exhibit offers visitors the chance to explore a real military aircraft. Originally set for disposal, the plane was renovated in an environmentally-friendly way by removing pollutants and adding replicas of machine guns for authenticity. The plane’s shallow depth and exceptional visibility make it accessible for both divers and snorkelers.
The J-21, a Yugoslav light attack aircraft, entered service in 1968. It was designed for ground-attack missions and weapon training, with a strong structure that enabled it to carry weapons and operate from rough airfields.
Experience the Jesus Christ Statue
A key feature of the Underwater Museum is the 14 Stations of the Cross, positioned 4 meters below the sea’s surface. Each station represents significant moments from Christ’s life. The museum also features a remarkable 8-meter-tall statue of Jesus Christ, located at a depth of 10 meters. This statue represents the 15th and final Station of the Cross, symbolizing the end of Christ’s suffering. Its size and detailed craftsmanship offer visitors an unforgettable experience.
Eco-Friendly and Open to the Public for the First Time
Previously accessible only to diving clubs, the Underwater Museum is now open to the public for the first time, allowing everyone to experience this incredible attraction. The museum is committed to sustainability and environmental preservation, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding nature.
A Unique Experience Near Trogir and Split
Located just a short boat ride from Trogir and Split, the underwater museum has become one of the most unusual attractions on the Dalmatian coast.
Visitors can explore the sculptures while snorkeling, making it accessible even to beginners who have never tried diving before.
For travelers looking for something different from traditional sightseeing, the underwater museum offers a rare opportunity to experience art beneath the sea.
