Korcula Island
In the southern coast of Croatia, rising out of the Adriatic is the island of Korcula. The island has beautiful low mountains, pine forests, olive groves and scent of wild herbs. At 47 km long and 6 to 7 km wide, it is one of the larger Croatian island. The main draw on this charming island is the town of Korcula, a medieval walled town on a promontory of land protruding out into the Paljesac Channel. Photo by: kamakaks
Built in the 15th century, Revelin Tower forms the present day Land Gate which is the main entrance into the Old Town. There was once a drawbridge, but it was replaced by stairs when the threat of invasion was reduced. The symbol of Venice, the winged lion of St Mark, can be seen above the arch. The view from the top of the tower is lovely and offers 360 panorama of the town and its attractive rooftops. Photo by: MacArtist
Probably the most important building in the Old Town, the Sveti Marko Cathedral was built in the 15thcentury in the Gothic-Renaissance style. The main portal built by Bonino of Milan in 1412 features Adam and Eve on either side, and St Mark above. There is a beautiful fluted rose window in the centre of the facade. The Renaissance interior was carved by a famous local stone mason, Marko Andijic and contains treasures such as an early Tintoretto. Photo by: Monica_T
The Venetian architecture is most obvious in the streets around the Cathedral of St Mark, where there are various Gothic Renaissance and Baroque places built for Korcula aristocrats. Opposite the cathedral is Arneri Palace, with its lovely Cothic facade and Renaissance-Baroque cloister. The town of Korcula is also popular with Moreska, a traditional sword dance which was common throughout the Mediterranean in the 12th and 13th centuries and become popular in Korcula in 16th century. The dance probably originated in Spain, inspired by the conflict between Moors and Christians. Photo by: dai oni
When to go: April to July, or September to October. Population: 16,182. How to get there: Fly to Dubrovnik or Split, then take a ferry to the island. You should know: There is only a handful of hotels on the island, so make sure you book before you go. Photo by: rokster
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