Korčula

Korcula town, its fortifications and the Moreska Dance

Those looking for the charm of Dubrovnik without the thousands and thousands of tourists, should visit the town of Korcula in the far north-east of the Korcula island in southern Dalmatia. Similar to the larger and more famous sisters on the mainland, Korcula is surrounded by a city wall and by some towers which have been preserved to this day. These towers allow for a wonderful view over the city and sea. The location of the old city on the peninsula contributes to its special flair: Mighty walls protect the historic city center from attackers, which were many throughout its history and its narrow, winding streets take you back into a bygone era. An era in which even the women took up arms and helped to defend their beloved home city against the Ottomans. Morris Dancing (Moreska) is now all that tells of these warlike days. This sword dance is only to be seen on Korcula. Here, the dancers are cheered on as they swirl their sharp sabers to the beat of bagpipes, drums and vocals. To date, Morris Dancing (Moreska) has been done for special occasions for the delight of visitors from around the world.

The medieval-themed old town Korcula and Marco Polo

Anyone who enters the city from the harbor gates will discovered a carefully and lovingly cared for world of medieval buildings, Venetian palaces, and charming little squares where you can relax as well as discover the Korcula-Mediterranean lifestyle. Korcula is one of the best preserved medieval cities in the Mediterranean and enchants guests with the its Historic Gate, numerous towers and walls as well as with its magnificent St. Mark's Cathedral. In this Gothic and Renaissance jewel you can expect to be astonished by modern sculptures alongside a beautiful dome and, among other things, a world-famous altarpiece by Jacopo Tintoretto. Last but not least you can expect to come across the (supposedly) most famous son of the city, the China traveler Marco Polo, in the City Museum. The museum is housed in the Palace Gabrieli which has fantastic sea views. Forget the fairy tale by the Venetian Marco Polo - his family is demonstrably from Dalmatia and until there is final proof that the famous adventurer comes form Korcula, it will not be told long. Until then, a visit to the Marco Polo house is recommended. This rambling, lovingly presented (alleged) birthplace of Marco Polo is most certainly worth a visit.

Excursions and leisure activities around Korcula

Korcula, however, is not only war art, history and culture- summer, sun and beach can also be enjoyed wonderfully and easily here. For example, visitors can relax on the sandy beach in the nearby village of Lumbarda, only about six kilometers from the medieval beauty of Korcula. Here, between rolling hills and lush vineyards you can find one of only a few sandy beaches in the region. Similarly, Vela Luka, the second largest town on the island offers romantic, wonderfully clean pebble beaches. And what would a holiday in Croatia be like without a trip to the widely popular, pristine Mlijet National Park, to Dubrovnik or Split. There is a regular ferry to Split and Dubrovnik, as well as a ferry to Orebic on the peninsula Peljeac, which is a region widespreadly known for its fantastic wines. Enjoying wine can also be done quite well in Korcula. Preferably in one of the lovely small restaurants overlooking the sea, where the once mighty walls protected against powerful enemies.