Korcula Island

Korčula Island 

Local legend claims that Korčula (pronounced Kor‑choola) was founded by the Trojans in the 12th century BC, though it is more likely that the ancient Greeks established the first settlements, naming the island Korkyra Melaina — “Black Corfu” — in reference to its dense forests. The origins of today’s walled stone town date to the early 13th century and are recorded in the town statute of 1214, one of the oldest municipal statutes in Europe. More recently, Korčula has become associated with Marco Polo, with some traditions holding that he was born here.

The island’s coastline is deeply indented, with numerous rocky inlets ideal for swimming and sunbathing, often in complete peace if solitude is what you seek. Viticulture has a long heritage on Korčula, and travellers are encouraged to try Grk, one of Croatia’s most distinctive and respected wines, grown primarily around Lumbarda.

Korčula Town itself is immediately striking — a compact knot of narrow lanes designed in a clever herringbone pattern that channels cooling sea breezes through the old streets. Its cathedral, museum, town walls and the house reputed to be Marco Polo’s birthplace offer plenty to explore, making it a rewarding place to stay for more than just a fleeting visit.

Reaching the island is straightforward: from Dubrovnik, it is a scenic two‑hour drive along the Pelješac peninsula to the ferry at Orebić. Once on the island, the landscape remains largely unspoiled. Beyond Korčula Town, the island is dotted with welcoming villages, vineyards and quiet bays. A single main road runs the length of the island to Vela Luka on the western coast, a relaxed harbour town. From here, taxi boats make the short crossing to Proizd, a tiny offshore island known for its luminous waters and smooth, sun‑bleached rocks. The central part of the island is home to the wine‑growing region around Smokvica and Čara, where two of Dalmatia’s best‑known white wines — Pošip and Rukatac — are produced.

Korčula offers plenty of ways to explore the island more actively, whether on a guided walk, a food tour or by bicycle along its quiet rural lanes. Water‑based activities such as surfing and diving are also available, and the island’s long tradition of winemaking means there are ample opportunities for tastings. Throughout the season, Korčula hosts a wide programme of cultural events, from Dalmatian harmony singing to historical reenactments, including a dramatized naval battle linked to the story of Marco Polo. The island is especially proud of the Moreška, an intricate sword dance once performed across the Mediterranean but preserved for over four centuries solely on Korčula. Today it remains a major attraction, staged at least once a week during the height of summer.