St. Cross Cathedral, Križevci
Koprivničko-križevačka županija
The Greek Catholic Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in Križevci serves as the episcopal seat of the Eparchy of Križevci since its establishment in 1777. Originally used by Augustinians and later Franciscans, it was designated a Greek Catholic cathedral by Pope Pius VI and Empress Maria Theresa. The cathedral underwent significant renovations between 1895 and 1897, led by Austrian architect Hermann Bolle, which gave it its distinctive neogothic style. Architecturally, it is a single-nave church with a cruciform floor plan. Inside, it houses a valuable iconostasis featuring works by prominent Croatian painters such as Bela Čikoš Sesija, Ivan Tišov, Ferdo Kovačević, and Celestin Medović, thanks to the patronage of Bishop Julije Drohobeczky. The cathedral remains a cultural and religious landmark in Križevci, symbolizing the heritage of the Greek Catholic community in Croatia.
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Tip: Visitors should consider timing their visit during religious feasts or cultural celebrations to experience the cathedral's vibrant atmosphere. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to appreciate the detailed art and history fully. The cathedral is accessible year-round, but spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring Križevci and its surroundings.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral houses an iconostasis painted by some of Croatia's most notable artists, including Bela Čikoš Sesija and Ivan Tišov.
- •The neogothic renovation was led by Hermann Bolle, a prominent Austrian architect known for many Croatian buildings.
- •In 2021, the icon of Our Lady of Klokočovska was hosted in the cathedral before being taken to the Vatican for Pope Francis' mass on the feast of Saints Peter and Paul.
History
The cathedral's origins trace back to its use by Augustinian and Franciscan orders before becoming the Greek Catholic episcopal seat in 1777, established by Pope Pius VI and Empress Maria Theresa.
It was gradually renovated from 1801 to meet the needs of the bishop and faithful.
A major reconstruction between 1895 and 1897 by Hermann Bolle introduced the neogothic style that defines its current appearance.
Over centuries, it has been a center for the Greek Catholic community, reflecting their religious and cultural identity in the region.
Place Guide
Main Nave and Cruciform Layout1895-1897
The cathedral features a single nave with a cruciform floor plan, typical of neogothic ecclesiastical architecture, creating a solemn and spacious interior.
IconostasisLate 19th century
A highly valuable iconostasis decorated with paintings by Croatian artists Bela Čikoš Sesija, Ivan Tišov, Ferdo Kovačević, and Celestin Medović, commissioned under Bishop Julije Drohobeczky's patronage.
