Explore island Korčula Croatia
The town of Korčula sits on the Peljesac Channel, on the island of Korčula. The island of Korcula is parallel to the
coast of Croatia, in the Adriatic Sea. It is geographically positioned approximately in between Split and Dubrovnik. The climate is mild year
round, with warm summers, averaging 26.9 C and gentle winters, averaging 9.8 C. Korčula has many historical and cultural buildings and monuments
of interest, and a long seafaring history, as well as a tradition of stone masonry. It is also interestingly the birthplace of the traveler and
adventurer Marco Polo.
A regional road crosses the island, connecting the town of Korčula with the remainder of the island. The port of Korčula offers regular ferry transport to and from the mainland. Small islets surround portions of the island of Korčula. A marina in Korčula offers charter boat and rental services.
Korčula is one of the more popular tourist destinations in Croatia today, and has been ranked among the top 20 island locations in the world. Korčula’s tourist history extends well into the past, and was a favorite retreat in the ancient world. Today, Korčula offers many comfortable accommodations and fine hospitality to its visitors. The first hotel on the island opened in 1912, and remains open to this day, allowing visitors to watch beautiful island sunsets from the hotel terrace. Hotels, campsites, and rental apartments and homes are all available to Korčula’s visitors.
Korčula is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering up windsurfing, yachting, and diving. Tennis and swimming are both popular activities in Korčula as well. Fishing, both by locals and visitors, is common. Walking tours of both the city of Korčula and the island as a whole are enjoyed by many tourists.
The city of Korčula offers up not only beautiful beaches, but also fine old architecture. Much of the architecture of Korčula shows the influence
of Venetian style, and you will find many buildings dating to the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries, including churches, palaces and more. Korčula has
also produced several fine 20th century artists, and you will find their work on display in the city. There are several museums in the area, some
featuring works of local artists and others sporting some number of fine renaissance pieces. The home of Marco Polo is also open to visitors.
Gourmets will enjoy the local delicacies and fine wines in Korčula. Local dishes of note include a number of fine fish dishes. Visitors with a sweet tooth should sample cukarini, krostule and prikle. A number of vineyards on Korcula produce good wines, including Posip, Grk, and Plavac.
The most important cultural happening in Korčula is the traditional game and sword dance dating to the middle ages, and performed in Korčula since the 15th century called Moreška. Moreška originated in Spain, but has a long history in Korcula. The game has its origins in the medieval custom of chivalry, and in the Spanish conflicts with the Moors. Moreška is a staged battle between the Black King and the White King. The Black King has abducted a princess, and she must be saved. In the end, the White King defeats the Black King, the princess is saved and the fight is accompanied by music provided by a local brass band.
Korčula has beautiful beaches, warm hospitality, fine food and wine, and the joys of life on the Adriatic to offer its visitors. History, cultural celebrations, and the beauty of the sea await you in lovely Korcula. A visit to Korcula can be quiet and relaxing or active and exciting, but it is sure to be memorable and offer up the vacation of a lifetime on an island paradise.
