Today, June 4, Croatia marks Corpus Christi (Tijelovo), one of the most important religious holidays in the Roman Catholic calendar and an official public holiday across the country.
Celebrated on the Thursday following Trinity Sunday, Corpus Christi honours the belief in the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. The feast dates back to the 13th century and is traditionally marked with special church services, Masses and religious processions in towns and cities throughout Croatia.
As a predominantly Catholic country, Croatia observes Corpus Christi as a national holiday, giving many people a day away from work and school to participate in religious observances or spend time with family.
While most supermarkets, banks, post offices and public offices will remain closed today, visitors will find that many businesses in tourist areas, including cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops and attractions, continue to operate.
For many Croatians, Corpus Christi remains both a deeply spiritual occasion and an opportunity to enjoy a midweek break at the start of the summer season.