Remarkable miniature Zagreb Cathedral crafted from Brač stone unveiled

(Photo credit: Split-Dalmatia County)

PUČIŠĆA, Brač – An extraordinary miniature replica of Zagreb Cathedral has been unveiled in the town of Pučišća on the Croatian island of Brač, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship and dedication.

The intricate model, created by Croatian artist Josip Radić, took nearly five years to complete and required around 6,000 hours of meticulous work.

Radić constructed the detailed replica using more than 31,000 pieces of famous Brač stone along with approximately 2,000 copper sheets, resulting in an exceptionally precise miniature version of one of Croatia’s most important religious landmarks – Zagreb Cathedral.

Adding a special spiritual and symbolic dimension to the artwork is the inclusion of an original stone from the cathedral itself.

The stone has been placed at the position corresponding to the tomb of Alojzije Stepinac, the Croatian cardinal and Catholic martyr.

(Photo credit: Split-Dalmatia County)

The project has been widely praised for both its technical mastery and its symbolism linking Croatia’s north and south.

Split-Dalmatia County prefect Blaženko Boban said talents of this calibre are rare not only in Croatia but around the world.

“In this work there is not only exceptional precision and craftsmanship, but also faith, dedication and a powerful symbolic connection between the north and south of Croatia,” Boban said.

He also noted that Radić, who is a Croatian war veteran, is an example of a talented and respected individual whose work brings pride to the country.

(Photo credit: Split-Dalmatia County)

A demanding project

Speaking about the project, Radić described it as one of the most significant experiences of his life.

“This was an extremely demanding project which required a great deal of patience, willpower and sacrifice. There were moments when I simply stood and looked at what I had created because even I was fascinated by it,” he said.

Radić added that the support of his family and the residents of Pučišća played a crucial role in helping him complete the work.

On display for visitors

The miniature cathedral will be displayed in a church in Pučišća, alongside Radić’s earlier creation, a model of St. Peter’s Basilica. Visitors from Croatia and abroad will be able to view the remarkable works.

Archbishop and apostolic nuncio Nikola Eterović praised the piece as a form of “stone lace”, highlighting its extraordinary precision and artistic skill.

He added that the miniature could also serve as inspiration for the ongoing restoration of Zagreb Cathedral, which was damaged in the 2020 Zagreb earthquake.

(Photo credit: Split-Dalmatia County)

“This work goes beyond art and becomes a source of inspiration,” Eterović said.