World’s First Underwater Stations of the Cross in Croatia

First Stations of the Cross under water in the world (Photo: Stations of the Cross)

A new tourist attraction is being created in Croatia which is the only one of its kind in the world – Stations of the Cross under the sea.

This weekend the first of the 14 Stations of the Cross was placed at a depth of around 4 metres in Jelinak bay west of Trogir on the Dalmatian coast.

(Stations of the Cross)

50 statutes will be placed at the 14 Stations of the Cross by the end of September it has been planned.

The project in Croatia is the only dedicated Stations of the Cross devotion in the world under water, and aims to be another tourist attraction on the coast, attracting pilgrims and also keen divers.

First Stations of the Cross under water in the world (Photo: Stations of the Cross)

The idea to create the Stations of the Cross under water came from diver Joško Kandija, whilst all 50 statues at the Stations of the Cross are produced by Valentino Val.

The statues, which are made from reinforced semi-solid concrete, are around 1.8 metres in height and weigh about 1,000 kilograms, which means they will be able to withstand sea currents and remain exhibited.

Outdoor Stations of the Cross (Photo: Cees Verhoog under CC)

Stations of the Cross refers to a series of images depicting Jesus Christ on the day of his crucifixion and accompanying prayers. The object of the stations is to help the Christian faithful to make a spiritual pilgrimage through contemplation of the Passion of Christ. It has become one of the most popular devotions and the stations can be found all over the world.