09/08/2024
The island of Korčula belongs to the Dubrovnik-Neretva County and has an area of 279.47 km², with numerous settlements and just under 15,000 inhabitants. Renowned travel magazines Condé Nast Traveller and National Geographic have declared it the most beautiful island in the world! 😍
🌍 In the town of Korčula, there is a house believed to be the birthplace of the famous Marco Polo in 1254; today, it is a museum.
♠️ The ancient name of Korčula was "Black Island" due to its dense forests and black cliffs along the shores. Today, 61% of the island's area is covered in forest, making Korčula one of the most forested islands in the Adriatic, and it is also known for its white stone.
🇫🇷 Due to its favorable position on the sea, Korčula attracted numerous conquerors. The island was ruled by Greeks, Romans, Venetians, French, and was also under Austrian and British rule. These diverse influences are best seen in the island’s architecture.
🧜♀️ There are many stories and legends about Korčula. According to one of them, mermaids once lived here. One of them fell in love with a young man from the mainland, but her father, the Sea King, threatened to turn him into stone. Fearing he would follow through with the threat, Nera decided to disappear, but not before setting the condition that the rocks in the bay would take on the shape of her long, black hair which the young man adored. These rocks can still be seen in the bay near the village of Smokvica.
Today, Korčula boasts beautiful sandy and white pebble beaches, as well as vineyards, with indigenous wine varieties Grk and Pošip attracting wine lovers from around the world. 🍷 Additionally, on June 30th each year, Korčula hosts the celebration of "half of the New Year," a unique event worldwide!
