Jasenova

Underground and out of the heat, Jasenova is a cave worth a detour if you are in the area.

History and background

A memorial at the site of the WWII Jasenovac concentration camp, run by the Ustaše regime, where tens of thousands of Serbs, Jews, Roma and anti-fascists were killed. The Stone Flower monument by Bogdan Bogdanović stands above the killing fields.

Good to know

Jasenova stands in Kvarner & Istria, one of the six regions that make up the Croatia most visitors fall for. From the Adriatic shore to the karst mountains and the quiet inland valleys, this part of the country gives you something worth the detour.

Book ahead in peak season, and check whether a tour is compulsory, many caves are.

Practical info

• Entry: check the official source before you travel. Prices and opening hours change, and some spots close entirely out of season.
• How to get there: Tap the map above for exact directions. In Croatian towns parking is usually signposted and paid, look for the blue P zones. If you are island hopping, leave buffer time for the ferries.

Best time to visit

Croatia is at its best from May to October. June and September are the sweet spot, warm water, long days, and thinner crowds than high July and August. Winter shows a quieter, cheaper and surprisingly handsome country, especially inland and in the cities.

This is part of an open Croatia library by Photograph by John, real places, real maps, no paywall. Share it if it was useful.