Glagolitic Script
The Glagolitic script is the oldest known Slavic alphabet and represents one of the most important cultural heritages of Croatia. It was introduced in the 9th century by the Byzantine missionaries Saints Cyril and Methodius, with the goal of bringing literacy and Christianity to the Slavic people. Unlike many other regions, this script remained in use in Croatia for centuries, especially along the Adriatic coast and on the island of Krk.
History, use on Krk and cultural significance
The Glagolitic script was used from the 9th until the 16th century, when it was gradually replaced by the Latin alphabet. Its name comes from the word “glagoljati”, meaning to speak or to perform religious services in Old Church Slavonic, the first Slavic literary language. Over time, two main forms developed: a rounded version used across the Slavic world and a distinctive angular form that became unique to Croatia.
Krk holds a special place in the history of the Glagolitic script. One of the most important monuments is the Baška Tablet, created around the year 1100 and discovered near the town of Baška on the island. It is one of the oldest known inscriptions in the Croatian language and contains one of the earliest written mentions of the name “Croatia” and King Zvonimir. Today, it is preserved in Zagreb, but its origin makes Krk a key cultural location for understanding this script.
Glagolitic inscriptions and symbols can still be found across the island, often displayed on monuments, churches and educational trails. One of the most well-known examples is the Glagolitic Path near Baška, where visitors can explore large stone sculptures representing individual letters of the alphabet.
Today, the Glagolitic script is no longer used in everyday writing, but it remains a strong cultural symbol of Croatian identity. On Krk, it is preserved through monuments, exhibitions and local heritage, offering visitors a unique insight into the island’s historical roots and its role in preserving Slavic literacy.
Where to experience Glagolitic script on Krk
• Baška (St. Lucia Church, Jurandvor) – original location of the Baška Tablet
• Jurandvor – historic village where the inscription was discovered
• Glagolitic Path (Baška) – outdoor trail with stone monuments of letters
• Krk Town – inscriptions in churches and old town walls
• Omišalj – historic coastal town with cultural traces
• Košljun Island (near Punat) – monastery with collections of old texts