by croatiaweek
August 15, 2025
in
(Photo: Grad Osijek)
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Refuge in Aljmaš in eastern Croatia once again became a place of deep faith and unity as thousands of pilgrims gathered to celebrate Velika Gospa, the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The central Mass for the feast day was led by Archbishop Đuro Hranić of Đakovo Osijek. Among those attending were Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić, Deputy Mayor of Osijek Dragan Vulin and Osijek Baranja County Prefect Nataša Tramišak.
Deputy Mayor Vulin congratulated all believers on the feast day, calling it a day of prayer, faith, unity, hope and gratitude.
(Photo: Grad Osijek)
“We have come here to thank the Mother of God for all the blessings of the past and to pray for strength to face the challenges ahead. Aljmaš is not only a sanctuary but a place of hope. It suffered greatly during the Homeland War and has since become a symbol of renewal and return, something deeply important to the Croatian people,” said Vulin.
(Photo: Grad Osijek)
Prefect Tramišak described Aljmaš as one of the largest pilgrimage sites in Croatia and the most important in Osijek Baranja County. She expressed her belief that large numbers of faithful would visit throughout the day, adding that the site holds a special place in the hearts of many.
Parish priest and sanctuary administrator Tomislav Ćurić expressed joy at the large turnout of pilgrims, calling it a sign of living faith and love for the Blessed Virgin Mary.
“The Virgin Mary survived the destruction of the church during the Homeland War, which was a sign that she wished to remain here and gather her faithful. This is significant and precious, as more and more pilgrims come to Aljmaš each year,” said Ćurić.
(Photo: Grad Osijek)
The Assumption of the Virgin Mary, celebrated on 15 August, is one of the most important days in the Catholic calendar.
It commemorates the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken body and soul into Heaven at the end of her earthly life.
(Photo: Grad Osijek)
(Photo: Grad Osijek)
For centuries, Croatians have expressed their devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, marking her Assumption with reverence, tradition and heartfelt celebration.