Primošten’s old town, Staro selo, was originally the island of Capocesto, also known as Gola glava. It was later connected to the mainland by a raised causeway. In the old town center, you’ll find streets paved with Šalizi and preserved old stone houses. The promenade around Staro selo brings together history, Mediterranean ambience and sea views, making it ideal for a stroll. A walk through this part of Primošten thus brings together the island’s storied past and today’s coastal scenery.
Churches, pilgrimage and a view from Gaj
The parish church of St. George in Primošten was built in its present, larger form in 1760 and is protected as an immovable cultural asset of the Republic of Croatia. The single-nave rural church of St. Roch is another sacred landmark: it stands in a landscaped park and is also protected as an immovable cultural asset. The statue of Our Lady of Loreto stands at the viewpoint on Mount Gaj; including its pedestal, it is 17 meters high. At sunset, the viewpoint offers views of the Primošten peninsula and the Primošten and Šibenik archipelagos. Visibility depends on the weather. The shrine of Our Lady of Loreto in Primošten is also part of international Marian pilgrimage routes connected with Loreto.
Lace, traditional dress and festival traditions
Primošten lace has been part of festive traditional dress for centuries; the tradition was first mentioned in writing in 1550. The Pekljica lace-makers’ association offers lace-making courses and demonstrations, and has been holding lace workshops at Primošten Elementary School for years. Workshop dates may vary, so check the current schedule if you’re planning a visit specifically for one. Another recurring tradition is part of Primošten’s most important festival, the Svetkovina Gospe od Loreta: on the eve of the festival, fires spelling out the words “Ave Maria” are lit around the parish church and on Mount Gaj. The program may vary in detail from year to year.
Cycling routes to Supljak and Gaj
The 10 sela cycling route starts in the center of Primošten and climbs toward the village of Supljak. The Gaj cycling route, Route No. 105, leads to Mount Gaj and the statue of Our Lady of Loreto, with views of Primošten’s vineyards. These destinations provide clear guidance when choosing a route: Route 10 sela heads toward Supljak, while Route 105 leads to Gaj and the statue, with views of the vineyards. Check road and trail conditions locally; conditions on Route 105 may change seasonally.
Wine country and cuisine
The Bucavac vineyard lies 3 km south of Primošten and is part of the destination’s surrounding area. It is protected as an immovable cultural asset. Its small plots are enclosed by low dry-stone walls and can only be worked by hand. Bucavac’s Babić grapes are among the most highly regarded in Croatia. In Primošten, the Vinas Mora winery produces natural wines from native grape varieties, including Babić, as well as other local grapes. Thus, the protected vineyard landscape near Primošten and the wine production in town are two distinct aspects. Primošten’s cuisine is based on Mediterranean dishes, especially fresh fish, seafood, olive oil and locally grown vegetables.
Sea views and boats
Mala Raduča Beach offers a special view of Staro selo and is particularly suited to watching the sunset in the evening; visibility depends on the weather. Boats can be rented with or without a skipper at several beaches in Primošten. Availability may vary. This lets you combine a day by the sea with a view of the old town, or consider a boat trip, without conflating the different options.
Discover more destinations: Primosten, Krusevo, Široke, Primošten Burnji, Municipality of Biskupija, Municipality of Rogoznica, Municipality of Ružić, Municipality of Unešić
Back to the regional travel overview: Šibenik-Knin County.
