Donji Humac Village

Donji Humac: The Stone Heart of Brac Island

The village of Donji Humac is one of the oldest and most authentic settlements on the island of Brac, located in the interior of the island, away from the bustling coastal resorts. It's a place where time seems to have stood still, and the centuries-old tradition of stone-carving still lives on today. I love Croatian villages that are quiet, clean and have a bench next to the church where you can freeze and listen to the sounds of the village.

A bench next to the church of St Fabian and St Sebastian, Donij Humac, island of Brač

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How to get there

Donji Humac is located about 7 kilometres southwest of Supetar and not far from another historical settlement Nerežišća. The most convenient way to get here is by car or scooter, following the signs from the main island road. The journey from Supetar takes about 10-15 minutes.

What to see

Stone village house in Donij Humac

The main attraction of Donij Humac is the village itself. Here, the unique atmosphere created by traditional stone houses (kamene kuće), many of which have been carefully restored, has been preserved . Narrow streets, paved with the same Brač stone that is quarried nearby, lead past courtyards decorated with flowers and ancient stone details.Lower Humac is famous for its stone carvers' workshops (klesarske radionice).

A stonecutter at work in the village of Donij Humac

In many courtyards you can see craftsmen working with stone, creating everything from small souvenirs to monumental sculptures and architectural elements. This is a great opportunity not only to watch the process, but also to purchase a unique piece of the famous Brač stone.

A popular Fiat in Croatia is parked at the white stone workshop

The cultural centre of the village is Galerija Jakšić, owned by a famous family of painters and sculptors. The gallery exhibits their works, including sculptures made of stone and other materials, as well as paintings.

Church of St Fabian and St Sebastian

In the centre of the village stands the Church of Saints Fabian and Sebastian (Crkva svetih Fabijana i Sebastijana), built in Baroque style but with elements of earlier Romanesque buildings.

Where to eat

There is plenty to do in the village for gastronomic tourists thanks to the famous Konoba Kopačina. This place is famous all over the island, and even beyond, for its dishes of young lamb (janjetina), especially when cooked in the traditional Dalmatian way of “ ispod peke” – under a special metal lid covered with coals. They also serve other local specialities made from fresh island produce. We were in the village on a hot afternoon, after a late breakfast, without feeling hungry. The heat of the day was not conducive to a hearty lamb lunch, so we did not visit the island's famous Kapachina konoba.

Entertainment

The main “entertainment” in Doña Humac is immersing yourself in the local atmosphere. This includes strolling through the ancient streets, watching the stone cutters at work, visiting a gallery and, of course, having a gastronomic experience in one of the best conobas on the island. Buying Brac stone products will be a great reminder of your visit to this unique place.