Pope Leo grants apostolic blessing to Croatian Navy’s Klapa Sveti Juraj

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

The Holy See has recognised one of Croatia’s most respected vocal ensembles as Pope Leo XIV granted an apostolic blessing to Klapa Sveti Juraj Hrvatske ratne mornarice on the occasion of the group’s 25th anniversary.

The blessing was issued following a request submitted on behalf of the ensemble and applies to all current members who, through their work, continue to nurture Croatia’s rich musical and spiritual heritage.

The initiative was put forward by Father Branimir Projić, while the request was supported by military chaplain Branko Čagelj from the “St Elijah the Prophet” Military Chaplaincy in Petrinja.

“We are extremely honoured by the apostolic blessing of Pope Leo XIV, requested on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of our founding,” said the klapa’s leader, Staff Sergeant Marko Bralić. “We are deeply grateful to military chaplain Branko Čagelj for initiating this gesture.”

Klapa Sveti Juraj operates within the Croatian Navy and is widely regarded as one of Croatia’s most recognisable vocal ensembles.

(Photo: HRM)

Founded in 2001 in Split, the group specialises in traditional Dalmatian klapa singing, an a cappella style characterised by rich harmonies and strong emotional expression.

Klapa singing is listed by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Over the past quarter century, the ensemble has performed extensively in Croatia and abroad, representing both the Croatian Navy and the country’s musical heritage at international cultural and diplomatic events.

The group is known for blending traditional klapa repertoire with patriotic, sacred and contemporary songs, helping bring the Dalmatian vocal tradition to wider audiences.