Discover the Tranquility of Zelena Katedrala: Croatia’s Unique Open-Air Church for Tourists

Published on November 27, 2025

Situated in the quiet village of Donji Proložac close to Imotski in southern Croatia, Zelena Katedrala (Green Cathedral) is the site of one of the most unique religious buildings in the world, which has drawn the interest of the local population and visitors alike. An open-air basilica without walls or roofing, it integrates seamlessly with nature, and it is one of Croatia’s most extraordinary tourist attractions as it sits alongside the Vrljika River.

Due to the idiosyncratic nature of the basilica, visitors can enjoy a unique experience where the boundaries of nature and religious space melt together, a one of a kind experience of spiritual communion and true of the site. The Green Cathedral has also gained the attention of the more adventurous tourist as it is a beautiful natural site away from the typical tourist offerings in Croatia.

The One-of-a-Kind Buildings of Zelena Katedrala

Zelena Katedrala is one of the unique buildings to visit in the area. The architecture is unconventional because it is the only church in the world that doesn’t have a roof or walls, unlike most buildings of worship. The basilica is surrounded by trees that naturally inter-curl to form a cathedral arch. The church is a living basilica with the trunks of the trees acting as the pillars of the cathedral, and the vast, rich foliage enhancing the atmosphere of the area.

Zelena Katedrala is an architecture and engineering remarkable feat, as it serves as a symbol for ecological mindfulness. The structure promotes the ideas of simplicity, and the blending of the spirit with nature is a brilliant design that will leave you with a smile, and a peaceful area along the Vrljika River that will provide you with a setting for untroubled contemplation and quiet.

A Lovely place for locals and tourists

Most people dont know about Zelena Katedrala if they don’t live in Croatia, but locals and tourists alike have fallen in love with the beauty and tranquility that this area has to offer. The small church is most frequented by people who study or are interested in religious tourism, and those who appreciate the beauty of rare earth features. Folk who are seeking for a less commercial, more peaceful and introspective, reflective experience of tourism visit the church.

Zelena Katedrala is a part of most folks travels to the Imotski region, which has many historical attractions, historical sites, and lakes, and is otherwise naturally beautiful. The region is home to Donji Proložac, a cozy rural village that is known for its tranquility. Zelena Katedrala is a place of rare earthly attractions, history, culture, and religion. Zelena Katedrala also contributes greatly to the area’s the tourism.

The unique location of the Green Cathedral provides a peaceful environment to reflect, meditate, or perform intimate religious ceremonies. The architectural style of the cathedral, paired with the featured landscape, provides an excellent background for photographs. The site has also been used for various cultural and musical events, indicating the site’s cultural importance and versatility in the region.

Ecotourism and Nature Tourism in the Region

Zelena Katedrala is also a pillar of the flourishing ecotourism of the country. The church’s unconventional structure and placement among the greenery in the region make it highly sought after by nature travel enthusiasts. Many visitors to the area take advantage of the winding banks of the Vrljika River that enhance the natural beauty of the site, and the wooded hills and riverbanks offer many opportunities for hiking and exploring.

Zelena Katedrala encourages eco-friendly travel as this Croatia tourism center maintains a steady influx of visitors. People get a chance to appreciate the site and their surroundings spiritually and the earthly. The experience promotes healthy synergism of religion and nature.

Zelena Katedrala location as an eco centre is an added advantage as tourists can visit other sites in the Imotski region. The area has a numbe of outdoor and hiking activities within the surrounding hills and alongside the Blue and Red Lakes.

Travelling to the Zelena Katedrala Church

Zelena Katedrala, also known as Green Cathedral, is open to the public all year around but its peak summer season. Visitors can easily access the Green Cathedral church by car from Imotski town which is located nearby. Onsite, visitors can enjoy the calmness surrounding the church as the site is open to the public free of charge, allowing tourists to wander around the church as much as they want. There are also several parking lots available.

Because the site is fully outdoors, visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothes, especially in the summer, as it can heat up during this season. Visitors are also advised to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain is not flat, and to bring water as the summer heat can lead dehydration. Also in the Imotski and local to the Zelena Kedetrala Church, which makes it easy for guests to spend more time in the area and visit its attractions, is the village of Donji Proložac which has a restaurants and accommodations.

Conclusion

The Zelena Katedrala in Donji Proložac is one-of-a-kind because it allows visitors to enjoy a unique and peaceful experience of nature and spirituality. This open-air church in the woods has become a global attraction that is a different type of religious landmark. The open-air church is surrounded by woods that provide a perfect blend of culture and rich nature. The church is a perfect attraction to experience the open nature and explore the amazing Zelena Katedrala of Croatia.