KORCULA

Beautiful island of Korčula was allegedly named after the heroine of Greek mythology Kerkyra, who came to live on the island on decision of sea god Poseidon.
Korčula was also the home of Marco Polo, famous world explorer.
Take a walk around Korčula and see the historic heritage in famous knight game called Moreška where the knights in red and black costumes fight over the affection of a lady. You will find yourself in another time altogether. Visit the town of Vela Luka, situated in a deep bay, have a drink of Pošip, Plavac or Admiral wines.

General information
Geographical position: South Dalmatia
Climate: Mediterranean
Average summer temperature: 25° C
Average winter temperature: 9° C

Gastronomy
The sea around the island of Korčula is rich with fish and shells, the land on the island gives succulent figs and olives for golden colored olive oil, while grapes in many vineyards are hot from the sun heat.
Pošip, Maraština, Rukatac and Grk are famous white wines while red wines Plavac and Admiral are true delicacies.
A cappella groups called "klape" and the scent of sea can be enjoyed together with excellent food: prosciutto with olives and oil-dipped cheese, grilled fish and lobster risotto, freshly picked oysters and mussels, followed by sweets prepared according to old island recipes.

Sport
There are plenty of possibilities for summer water activities such as swimming, diving, or sailing away to beautiful localities, since the island is full of small bays ideal for anchoring. Moreover, there are many diving clubs at your disposal situated in the larger places on the island.
If you prefer sport activities on land there are many bicycle and walking paths where you can enjoy nature and fresh air.
If you wish to combine sport activities with an opportunity to go on a trip, we recommend visiting Pelješac peninsula and the island of Brač, since they are two most popular windsurfing destinations.

Fun and night life
Korčula is one of rare places on the Mediterranean, which kept the tradition of ancient knight games of moruška, kumpanija and moštra.
Rules of these games are described in the medieval town statute.
Two juxtaposed armies dressed in vivid costumes of fiery red and black, will fight before the spectators over a lady's favor.
While their swords, cries and swift footwork echo the town square made of white stone from the island, you will have the feeling like you've returned to the 16th century when this game was first played on the island. You can go out to one of the local cafes in the evening and enjoy the quiet and relaxed atmosphere of the island.
If you prefer a more dynamic nightlife, we have to inform you that Korčula offers only quiet sleep at night.

Beaches
The island of Korčula has many bays ideal for sailing boats and refreshment after summer heat.
In these numerous bays one can find sandy as well as pebbled beaches.
Among the most famous beaches on the island are the one in Lumbarda and a pebbled beach in the town of Pupnat.
Crystal clear water and its blue color will definitely tempt you.

What to see?
Birth house of Marco Polo - Korčula
There are many assumptions on where Marco Polo, famous Venetian world traveler, was born.
One larger part of the town of Korčula used to belong to Polo family, and we recommend you to visit the birth house of Marco Polo during your walk through the town.

Town walls and center - Korčula
Korčula's town walls were raised in the early Middle Ages and they incorporate several towers of Barbarigo, Tiepolo, Balbi and Capello.
The old town center was build on the principle of a fish bone, a truly valuable urban concept, since it protects the town residents from afternoon heat, creating shadows. Thus, you can take a walk in the afternoon, without fear of sunburns.

Palace Gabrieli-Town museum - Korčula
Palace Gabrieli-Ismaelis was built in the 16th century, what is called a Golden Age of Korčula, and today this beautiful Renaissance palace incorporates the town museum with an archeological collection, and documents and objects for the town's history. Another beautiful town palace, also from the age of Renaissance, is the Arneri palace – we recommend visiting both.

St. Marco cathedral – Korčula
St. Marco cathedral was built in the 15th century in Gothic-Renaissance style.
It had been built carefully for almost 150 years.
Constructors and builders of the palace were very lucky in this respect since Korčula was never attacked or destroyed.
Today, numerous manifestations take place in the cathedral. Inside you can see a masterpiece by Tintoretto "Annunciation", situated in the eastern part of the cathedral.

How to get there?
Ferry lines from Split and Orebić on Pelješac peninsula
(more information on www.jadrolinija.hr)
Catamaran from Split

source: adriatica.net
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