Parish Church of Saints Cosmas and Damian (Župna Crkva Sv. Kuzme i Damjana)

The Parish Church of Saints Cosmas and Damian (Župna Crkva Sv. Kuzme i Damjana) is a prominent landmark in the heart of Fažana, Croatia, facing the sea near the ferry pier to the Brijuni islands. This small but historically rich church traces its origins to the 6th century, with foundations from the 8th century and a structure that has evolved through Romanesque, Gothic, and Neoclassical phases. Its current form dates to 1688, following extensive reconstruction, with further enhancements in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The church’s simple façade is distinguished by a painted lunette above the entrance and a detached bell tower nearby. Inside, visitors discover a blend of artistic and architectural treasures, including five marble altars with wooden retables, remnants of 16th-century frescoes, and notable paintings such as The Last Supper by Zorzi Ventura (1598) and the Resurrected Christ with Saints by Venetian artist Leonardo Corona (c. 1590). The preserved Gothic portal features high reliefs of the church’s patron saints, adding to its unique character.

Open to visitors from July 1 to August 31, the church welcomes guests in the mornings and evenings, with Mass held on Sundays. Outside these dates, access is more limited, but the church remains a key site for those interested in Fažana’s spiritual and artistic heritage. Its location and layered history make it a worthwhile stop for travelers exploring the Istrian coast.