Jaksic Stonemasonry
Workshop and Gallery

Monument to the Croatian Defenders in Makarska – Creating a Monument from a Scale Model by Kuzma Kovačić

- the creation and installation of the monument to the Croatian defenders in Makarska is one of the most demanding and significant projects completed by our workshop in the field of monuments, sculpture and public spaces. This monument to the defenders, made according to the scale model by the academic sculptor Kuzma Kovačić, was at the time of its installation the central monument to the defenders for the entire Dalmatian region, giving it strong symbolic and memorial importance. The process of creating the monument from the model was extremely challenging due to its size and complexity. The monument is made from two monumental blocks of stone, carefully selected and shaped in our workshop. Each block has a slightly irregular geometric form, giving the entire composition a dynamic and monumental presence. The stone surface is hand-carved, with special attention to textures and transitions. The forms are not fully realistic; instead, they appear to emerge softly from the stone itself, adding a sculptural depth and spiritual dimension. The central motif is the stylised Croatian chequerboard, whose elements blend gently into the stone surface, symbolising tradition, identity, and the sacrifice of Croatian defenders. In addition to stone, the monument includes bronze elements, creating a harmonious relationship between the materials and reinforcing the artistic value of the original concept. The installation of the monument was particularly demanding. Due to the enormous weight and size of the stone blocks, the largest cranes available at the time had to be used. The logistics required great precision, and even part of the surrounding trees had to be temporarily removed to allow the blocks to be safely lowered into position. Our workshop led the entire installation process, ensuring perfect structural stability and aesthetic coherence. The ceremonial unveiling of the monument to the Croatian defenders in Makarska was a significant event for the city and the wider region. The monument became a place of remembrance, respect and gathering, as well as a clear example of how creating a monument from a scale model can result in a powerful work of public sculpture. This project represents a strong union of craftsmanship, art and honour, and remains one of the most representative examples of our workshop’s work on major public monuments.