The sanctuary was founded by Bishop Juraj Carić, who is buried at the site according to his final wishes.
The shrine is built into a natural cave formation, mimicking the geography of the original Lourdes site in France.
Vepric is positioned at the intersection of a natural spring and a dense pine forest, contributing to its unique microclimate.
The site serves as a major pilgrimage destination for the Feast of the Assumption in August.
The Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, locally known as Vepric, is a Marian sanctuary established in 1908 by Bishop Juraj Carić. It is situated at the foot of a wooded hill at the western entrance to the town of Makarska. The site was modeled after the famous pilgrimage destination in Lourdes, France, featuring a natural cave and a surrounding landscape of lush vegetation and streams. The sanctuary includes an altar area, confessionals, and the Stations of the Cross path. It serves as a significant site for both local religious observance and regional pilgrimage. The physical layout utilizes the natural limestone terrain to create a secluded, forest-like environment. The sanctuary remains an active religious site managed by the local ecclesiastical authorities.
The main altar area from the perspective of the approach path, capturing the cave entrance and the surrounding greenery.
Bring insect repellent as the wooded, damp environment near the stream can attract mosquitoes.
Wear footwear suitable for walking on uneven, natural paths and gravel surfaces.
Maintain silence, as this is an active place of prayer for local residents.
Do not treat the sanctuary as a typical sightseeing park; avoid taking loud photos or videos during ongoing religious services.
Open year-round, but becomes significantly crowded during major Catholic feast days, particularly in mid-August.
Shoulders and knees must be covered as a sign of respect; avoid loud conversations.
