Korčula Island is a beautiful and historic island located in the Adriatic Sea. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and historic towns. But beyond the beaches and towns, there is another side to Korčula Island that is worth exploring: the traditional villages.
Taking a cultural tour of Korčula Island’s traditional villages is an excellent way to experience the island’s rich history and culture. These villages are steeped in tradition and offer a glimpse into life on the island centuries ago. Here are some of the traditional villages you should consider visiting on your next trip to Korčula Island.
Žrnovo
Žrnovo is a small village located just a few kilometers from Korčula town. It is known for its beautiful stone houses, narrow streets, and ancient stone walls. One of the highlights of the village is the Church of St. Barbara, which dates back to the 14th century. The church’s bell tower offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic Sea.
Another highlight of Žrnovo is its traditional stone houses. These houses are made from the same limestone that was used to build the ancient city of Korčula, and they are a testament to the island’s rich history and culture.
Pupnat
Pupnat is another small village located in the heart of Korčula Island. It is known for its traditional stone houses, many of which are several centuries old. The village is also home to the Church of St. Roch, which dates back to the 16th century.
One of the unique features of Pupnat is its traditional watermills. These mills were once used to grind flour, and they offer a glimpse into the island’s agricultural history. Today, some of these mills have been converted into restaurants where visitors can sample traditional Korčula Island cuisine.
Račišće
Račišće is a picturesque village located on the north coast of Korčula Island. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and traditional stone houses. The village is also home to the Church of St. Roch, which dates back to the 15th century.
One of the highlights of Račišće is its traditional fishing boats, known as falkuša. These boats have been used by the island’s fishermen for centuries, and they offer a glimpse into the island’s maritime history. Today, visitors can take a ride on a falkuša and experience traditional Korčula Island fishing firsthand.
Blato
Blato is the largest village on Korčula Island, and it is known for its traditional architecture and rich history. The village is located in a valley surrounded by hills, and it is home to several historic churches, including the Church of All Saints, which dates back to the 14th century.
One of the highlights of Blato is its traditional chivalric games, known as Moreška. These games have been played on Korčula Island for centuries and involve two groups of men dressed in traditional costumes fighting with swords. The games are a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage and are a must-see for anyone interested in Korčula Island’s history.
Smokvica
Smokvica is a small village located on the southern coast of Korčula Island. It is known for its traditional stone houses and its wine. The village is home to several wineries, and visitors can take a tour of these wineries and sample some of the island’s best wines.
One of the highlights of Smokvica is its traditional dance, known as the Kumpanija. This dance has been performed on Korčula Island for centuries and involves a group of men dressed in traditional costumes performing intricate dance moves. The Kumpanija is a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage and is a must-see for anyone interested in traditional Korčula Island culture.
Lumbarda and Cara
In addition to the villages mentioned above, there are several other traditional villages on Korčula Island that are worth visiting. These include Lumbarda, a small village known for its sandy beaches and traditional stone houses, and Cara, a village located in the heart of the island that is known for its traditional embroidery and lacework. To fully experience the traditional villages of Korčula Island, it is best to take a guided tour. A guided tour will provide you with valuable insights into the island’s history and culture and will ensure that you don’t miss any of the island’s hidden gems.
Villa Gabriela – peaceful retreat
If you’re looking for a luxurious and peaceful retreat on Korčula Island, Villa Gabriela is the perfect destination for you. Book your stay today and start planning your dream vacation on this beautiful island! Located just a few steps away from the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, Villa Gabriela is the perfect place to enjoy water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Overall, taking a cultural tour of Korčula Island’s traditional villages is an excellent way to experience the island’s rich history and culture. These villages offer a glimpse into life on the island centuries ago and are a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or just want to explore the island’s hidden gems, a cultural tour of Korčula Island’s traditional villages is a must-see for anyone visiting the island.
