Korcula is an enchanting Mediterranean island belonging to the central Dalmatian
(Croatia) archipelago.
Korcula island is renown for its crystal blue sea lush Mediterranean vegetation of pine wood,
wild herbs, orange, lemon, mandarin and pomegranate trees, secluded little bays and
endless wild fields, olive groves and vineyards, picturesque villages and for the captivating
beauty of the ancient stone town of Korcula.
Many charming and breathtaking islets are surrounding the island.
The natural beauty of the environement will provide a feast for all your sences.
Short history of Korcula island
Korcula has a long, rich history. According to legend, it was founded by Trojan hero Antenor
in the 12th century BC.
The island was first settled by Mesolithic and Neolithic peoples 20,000 years ago and is well know for its archeological finds from that era.
The name of the island comes from ancient Greek times, when the Greek colonists from Corfu (Corcyra) founded a small colony on the island in the 6th century BC. the Greeks named it Melaina Korkyra ("Black Corfu”) after their homeland and the dense pine wood forests that Korcula is covered with.
The island became part of the Roman province of Illyricum after the Illyrian Wars (220 BC to 219 BC). Roman migration followed and Roman citizens arrived on the island.
The Great Migrations of the 6th and 7th centuries brought Slavic invasions into this region.
In the 12th century Korčula was conquered by the Venetians, incorporated briefly into the Venetian Republic and rechristened Curzola.
The Statute of Korčula was first drafted in 1214, largely guaranteeing the autonomy of the island.
The town statute also prohibited slavery, making Korcula one of the first places in the world to
outlaw the practice!!
Today Korcula is often called Marco Polo Island, since the town is revered for being the possible birthplace and residence of one of the greatest travelers in world history.
