Croatians flock to cemeteries to remember loved ones on All Saints’ Day

(Photo: Grad Split)

Across Croatia today, families are marking All Saints’ Day, a national public holiday observed every 1 November.

The day, known locally as Dan Svih svetih, is one of deep reflection and remembrance, as people visit cemeteries to light candles and place flowers on the graves of loved ones.

In cities and towns across the country, cemeteries have been filled since early morning, with families paying their respects.

In Zagreb, Mirogoj Cemetery has once again drawn large crowds, and by evening it will be illuminated by a sea of candles, creating a moving scene of light and remembrance.

(Photo credit: Mate Paškanović Pavković)

(Photo credit: Private album)

In Vukovar, a city that remains a powerful symbol of sacrifice and resilience, a delegation led by Mayor Marijan Pavliček laid wreaths and lit candles at the Memorial Cemetery of Homeland War Victims.

(Photo: Grad Vukovar/Miroslav Šlafhauzer)

Mayor Pavliček paid tribute to all those who gave their lives for Croatia’s independence, appealing for continued efforts to locate the remains of the missing from the Homeland War.

(Photo: Grad Vukovar/Miroslav Šlafhauzer)

“Only when we find all those who are still missing can we say that our sacrifice is complete and that families have finally found peace,” he said.

In Split, representatives from the city and county authorities, together with veterans’ associations and government ministries, laid wreaths yesterday at the Lovrinac Cemetery.

(Photo: Grad Split)

Mayor Tomislav Šuta noted that this is a time to remember loved ones and reflect on the moments shared with them.

(Photo: Grad Split)

All Saints’ Day, observed on this date, traces its origins to Pope Gregory III (731–741), who dedicated a chapel within St Peter’s Basilica to honour all apostles, saints, martyrs, confessors, and the righteous who had attained peace throughout the world.