The first parish church in the parish of Međugorje was built in a short period of time after the establishment of the parish. The church was constructed by Father Nikola Šimović with the help of parishioners between 1896 and 1897. Given the poverty of the people at the time, this was a significant event. The church was beautiful both inside and out. Unfortunately, it was built on land that was not ideal, and after just 10 years, the church suffered significant damage. Despite several repairs, there was no other solution but to begin the construction of a new church.
At this location, the foundations of the old church remain, along with a votive chapel from 1931, which still houses the statue of the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus in her arms.
Next to the old well, there is a monument to seven Franciscans—five of whom were born in this parish, and two who served here. These two were murdered by Yugoslav communists in 1945.
