Church in Zaton Gets a Sustainable Makeover Ahead of Feast Day

St. Stephen the Protomartyr's Church is one of the oldest sacred buildings in the region – according to tradition, it dates back to the 10th/11th century, to the time when a visit by Stjepan Miroslav, King of Dalmatia and Croatia, to Dubrovnik and the Astarea region inspired the construction of several churches dedicated to St. Stephen. Over the centuries, the church has undergone numerous renovations and restorations, yet it has remained an important spiritual and cultural center for the people of Zaton.

How we helped:

• Native Mediterranean plants suited to local conditions – Dubrovnik coral, lavender, and rosemary – were donated and planted together by our employees and local volunteers around the church and rectory
• Physical groundwork included mowing the grass and partially installing an irrigation system
• Fifteen bags of quality soil and appropriate fertilizer were donated for the new plantings
• Existing vegetation was replanted with the help of our team

This initiative is part of Sun Gardens Dubrovnik's ongoing commitment to sustainability and care for the local community – not only through one-time donations, but through active participation with our knowledge, labor, and resources. We believe that small, thoughtful efforts, such as planting native species that require less water and are better suited to the Mediterranean climate, make the greatest long-term contribution to both the environment and the shared spaces we all care for.

We thank the parish for its hospitality and cooperation, and we look forward to continuing this partnership in the future.