Majorija – Das Vermächtnis des Majors

About the location

A short drive above Senj lies the tiny hamlet of Majorija. Although it consists of only a handful of houses, it is home to the impressive neoclassical Chapel of St. Michael (Kapela Svetog Mihovila). Right in front of the chapel is a spring fountain with mineral-rich water that has long been believed to have healing properties. On sunny days it is common to see motorists and cyclists stopping here to fill their bottles—or even several large canisters—with the fresh spring water.

But how did this place come to be?

The fountain was built by Josip Kajetan Knežić. Born in Croatia, he moved to Austria at a young age and pursued a successful military career. After taking early retirement, the Major returned to his homeland and built his home opposite the chapel. It was one of the first houses on this hillside, and the settlement eventually took its name from his military rank and nickname.

Retirement did not slow Knežić down. He devoted himself to the construction of roads, bridges, railways, fountains and monuments. His greatest goal was to improve transport along the Croatian coast, where many settlements had previously been accessible only on foot or by boat. He also enclosed the Imperial Spring (Carsko vrilo) and dedicated the fountain to Emperor Ferdinand I of Austria in gratitude for the knighthood he had received.

Josip Kajetan Knežić died unexpectedly at the age of 62. Following his wishes, he was buried behind the chapel he had built. His memorial, donated by the people of Senj, can still be visited today.

The Cache

While enjoying the fresh spring water and the pink chapel, take a look at the right-hand side of the fountain. Beneath a short inscription you will find a four-digit year. This is the log password.

Please also upload a photo of yourself or a personal item together with something at the location that you particularly like.

Parking: If you only stop briefly, you can pull over directly beside the fountain. For a longer visit, two regular parking areas are available a little further up the road (see waypoints).

Have fun! :)