Good Friday celebrated in Croatia

In Croatia, believers marked Good Friday, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. No Holy Mass is held on this day, and church bells fall silent.

Fish is traditionally on the menu, so fish markets across the country—including in the capital, Zagreb—were busier than usual.

“The selection is quite good, especially considering the poor weather we've been having. There’s everything you could want,” said one shopper in the capital.

“No matter where you turn, you end up spending money. And everyone’s in such a hurry. It’s difficult to get everything done. But we always seem to manage, so this time is no different,” added an elderly customer.

“There aren’t as many customers this time. I think we’re in a bit of a financial crisis. However, we still have a wide selection of fish,” said a local fish seller.

The same tradition holds in continental Croatia, where freshwater fish is preferred. In Osijek, thousands lined up for a portion of spicy fish stew, prepared by expert chefs in large cauldrons over open flames.

Davor Tomić, president of the Association of Kettle Masters, said the weather in Osijek this year was even better than on Christmas Eve. “As long as it doesn’t rain, nothing else matters. We’re ready for anything. We’ve prepared 3,000 portions of fish stew using around 600 kilos of fish. There are 15 chefs here and two extra cauldrons, so there should be enough for everyone,” he said.

On the island of Hvar, Good Friday is marked by an all-night procession known as ‘Following the Cross.’ A specially designated cross-bearer leads thousands of believers through six villages in this centuries-old tradition.

“My brother and father were helping me, and God was with me too,” said cross bearer Tomislav Ivanišević.

“It always seems to me that the cross is much too heavy. But according to the cross bearers, when the motivation comes from within, when there are so many people with you, when you bear this great responsibility, and when the adrenaline is flowing, the task feels effortless. It was amazing to witness,” said Jelsa Parish Priest Ivan Jurin.

The procession is recognized by UNESCO as part of the world’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.