Lopud 1483: A Restored Monastery Overlooking the Timeless Beauty of the Dalmatian Coast

Lopud-1483, situated on the Croatian island of Lopud in a restored 15th-century monastery has its story is deeply tied to its creator, Francesca Thyssen-Bornemisza, a descendant of the family behind the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum in Madrid. Her lifelong dedication to preserving and showcasing art found an unexpected outlet in this remote island project, where her passion for Croatian culture and history brought Lopud-1483 to life.

The monastery was initially discovered by Thyssen-Bornemisza in 1992, during the Croatian War of Independence. She was on a mission to protect local artworks threatened by the conflict, and her journey took her to Lopud, where a local friar introduced her to the site. At the time, the monastery and its adjoining 16th-century fortress were in a state of disrepair, abandoned for centuries. However, the place captivated her imagination, and, on the advice of famed architect Frank Gehry, she embarked on a slow and meticulous restoration process that would take nearly 20 years to complete.

The result is a striking blend of ancient architecture and modern luxury. The original stone walls and fortress that once defended the island from Ottoman pirates remain, but within those walls, Lopud-1483 offers every modern convenience. The restoration preserved the integrity of the historic structure while introducing contemporary elements, such as custom-made furniture by Italian designer Paola Lenti and a carefully curated selection of art from the Thyssen-Bornemisza family’s private collection. Throughout the property, Renaissance sculptures, antique furnishings, and contemporary artworks create a unique dialogue between past and present.

The monastery’s original cells have been transformed into just five spacious suites, each with its own en-suite bathroom. Four of the suites offer sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea, while the fifth overlooks the tranquil cloisters. The interior design, overseen by Zagreb-based architect Rujana Markovic, is minimalist, reflecting the simplicity of the building’s monastic origins, yet it is punctuated by splashes of colour and luxurious details. Lenti’s furniture adds a modern touch to the space, but the real stars of the show are the artworks—each room is adorned with pieces from Thyssen-Bornemisza’s collection, making the suites feel more like private art galleries than hotel rooms. The master suite, in particular, stands out for its distinctive features. A thick steel door leading to the bathroom doubles as a panic room, providing an unexpected modern twist in this ancient setting.

Dining at Lopud-1483 is equally bespoke. With no on-site restaurant, the property’s chef collaborates with guests to create tailor-made menus based on their preferences. Meals can be served anywhere on the property, from the grand walnut dining table in the 16th-century Refectory Room, surrounded by Renaissance chalices and decorative bowls, to alfresco dining experiences atop the fortress walls or in the serene gardens. Guests might choose to have a casual barbecue one evening, a formal banquet the next, or a candlelit dinner in the cloisters, illuminated by the moon.

The grounds of the monastery are as meticulously curated as the interiors. The tranquil medicinal garden revived as part of the restoration, is filled with Mediterranean herbs and native plants. The fortress, which offers some of the best views on the island, also serves as a unique venue for sunset drinks or even an outdoor cinema experience. At night, the ruins of the fortress are transformed into a magical setting for watching films under the stars, providing guests with a memorable way to end their day.

For those seeking more active pursuits, Lopud-1483 offers direct access to the Adriatic Sea, where guests can swim, snorkel, or explore the coastline by kayak or paddleboard. Private boat and yacht charters are available for those wishing to explore the nearby islands or secluded coves. The island of Lopud itself, with its car-free roads and ancient churches, is a peaceful place to hike or cycle, while Dubrovnik, just 40 minutes away by speedboat, offers a more bustling alternative for day trips.

Beyond the physical beauty of the property, what truly sets Lopud-1483 apart is its connection to the Thyssen-Bornemisza art collection. Guests have the rare opportunity to live among some of the finest pieces of Renaissance and contemporary art, including 18th-century angels by the Polish artisan Michael Klahr, Mattia Preti’s Liberation of Saint Peter, and an expansive 16th-century Ushak carpet. Each piece has been carefully selected to complement the historic architecture, and the effect is one of seamless integration between art and environment. This deep immersion in art extends beyond the walls of the monastery. The island is also home to the Your Black Horizon art pavilion, part of the TBA21 collection, offering guests another opportunity to engage with cutting-edge contemporary art during their stay.

For further information, visit lopud1483.com