Franciscan monastery and St. Mary's church in Makarska

Makarska’s Franciscan complex brings religious heritage together with an unusual natural-history collection. The old part of the monastery houses the Malacological Museum, devoted to shells of marine snails and bivalves from the Adriatic and other seas. It is a chance to add a closer look at shapes, colours and structures to a holiday usually spent beside the water. Begin with the exterior around the church and monastery buildings, then treat the museum as a distinct part of the visit. With children, compare spirals and fan shapes rather than trying to memorise every species name. This stop adds variety to a cultural walk through town beyond the familiar waterfront views.