Discover the secrets and treasures kept by the Benedictine nuns on the amazing island of Pag. Learn how they kept alive the tradition of lace making which is nowdays preserved by UNESCO as the intangible heritage of the World, what treasures they preserved for centuries and how they spend their days making delicious treats.
Here are four ways to discover the wonders of Pag town and all it has on offer with Maricom guided tours.
Sightseeing the Town of Pag
There is no better way to see a town than with an expert and friendly guide. Departing daily at 10 am, your knowledgeable guide will show you the gorgeous city of Pag, a place that will indeed enchant you!
This 15th-century town has lots of stories to share - and we know you’ll be fascinated. Take a leisurely walk and learn them all. With a visit to the Pag lace gallery, several churches, including the Congregational Church of the Assumption of Mary on the main square, the Rector's Palace, and the Salt Museum, no stone is left unturned.
The tour is ideal for those with families and will also provide insight into the traditional ways of salt making. Plus, if you want to learn more about the area, you can, for a small surcharge, also visit the Old Town of Pag to expand your knowledge of this exciting island paradise.
Worship Before the Holy Thorn
Did you know that the Pag Benedictine nuns have kept something hidden in their monastery? Now is your chance to discover what has been held in secret for centuries. It is the "Holy Thorn,” said to be a part of the crown that Jesus Christ wore during his death. We suggest you go and see it to believe it.
Legend says that the Holy Thorn was brought to Pag in 1443 by a Franciscan monk upon returning from the Holy Land. He gave it to his sister after taking her monastic vows in the Benedictine monastery in Pag. Truth or fiction?
You're able to observe the Holy Thorn daily on a tour that leaves at 10:30 am or about 6:00 pm each day. The tour departs from the center of Pag and lasts one hour.
Once at the Pag Benedictine Monastery, you'll bear witness to the hermetically sealed glass cylinder containing part of the crown. It is entirely preserved and has been authenticated by the papal envoy who stated, "Esse de corona Domini!", meaning it is from the crown of the Lord!".
The Benedictine nuns have carefully guarded this relic for centuries, and now you have the chance to join one of these special lead tours to see it for yourself.
Pag Lace Cours
Pag Island women have been making lace for centuries, and the lace made on the island is protected by UNESCO and among some of the most famous in the world. Now, you can learn the ancient lace craft by participating in this absolutely fascinating lace-making workshop.
This cultured workshop runs over seven days, and your package includes all your accommodation (double room), with a hearty breakfast, the Pag lace-making equipment, all accompanied by a professional instructor.
For centuries the lace made in Pag has been used as a part of formal wear, decorative tablecloths, and artworks. The lace is still a source of income for many of the Pag lacemakers. Acquiring the skill level to make this lace is a lengthy process, which is why the course is enjoyed over a week. Then, the lace you make during the course can be taken home to be used however you choose.
During the week of lace making, you will also get to discover other parts of Pag though, sightseeing the olive groves and Old Town, tasting locally made wine, cheese, honey, and baškotin (which is a fragrant toast baked by the Benedictine nuns).
Tea at The Benedictine Monastery
Take a peek behind the scenes of a Benedictine monastery and see a part of a world that is not often opened to the public.
This fascinating daily tour departs Pag and heads to the Pag Benedictine Monastery, built more than seven centuries ago. Since then, the nuns have been making this intricate lace that has been inscribed on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. At the monastery, the nuns also make Baškotin, an aromatic rusk bread. Learn about how they make this bread by hand in small batches using a 300-year-old recipe.
During the hour tour, you see numerous valuable objects housed at the monastery, and you'll bear witness to how the nuns live their quiet and peaceful life while you share a cup of tea with the nuns and say a prayer.
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