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Korčula, the historical and tourist centre of the island of the same name in the South Dalmatian Archipelago.
Known as the birth-place of Marko Polo, this town has been justly called "a little Dubrovnik" due to its picturesque squares and medieval atmosphere.
While the works of skilful Korčula stone-masons cause wonder by its perseverance, Moreška brings liveliness to the streets of Korčula, as one of the three chivalrous dances you can see only on this exceedingly beautiful island!
The city of Korcula was planned and built and its urban structure is a model example of mediaeval planned construction.
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The design of the city was adjusted to the geomorphological characteristics of the ground, while the foundation for construction was laid in the 13th century. Using rational urban regulation the city was divided into two parts, east and west, while the division between the two is also the central city street which then expands and shapes the central square where the cathedral is located.
Since the city is surrounded by walls, the central street towards the outer stone perimeter descends to narrow streets creating a raster resembling a fishbone.
This type of urban plan is why the streets of Korcula are sunny both in the morning and in the evening while in the afternoon they are protected by the scorching heat of the sun by the pleasant shade cast by the walls.
Of the architectural monuments within the city walls, the cathedral, City Hall, the Abbatial treasury and the city museum are particularly valuable. The Abbatial treasury is situated on the south side of the cathedral and the treasure is located within the seven halls and represents perhaps the most prominent collection of its kind in all of Dalmatia. Some of its most valuable exhibits include illuminated manuscripts from the 12th century, gold-stitched clothing, gold, silver and porcelain objects, ceramics from the Middle Ages (a numismatic rarity), as well as valuable furniture and paintings on the walls by world renowned artists, both local and foreign, from the Renaissance period onward.
One other feature of Korcula is Moreska - a knight's game in which dancers fight with swords to win the sympathy of girls. Moreska is a tradition that has been nurtured since the 12th century.
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Apart from the town Korčula, there are Blato, Vela Luka, Račišće, Žrnovo, Lumbarda and many other smaller or bigger towns and villages on the island. |
