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The word Kumpanjija on the island of Korčula denotes company that gathers men in maintenance of these traditions – each chivalrous association on the island, including the one of Smokvica, contains this term in its title.
Kumpanjija represents a chain dance that originates from Medieval European tradition with a series of similar figures. It includes impacts of the old local ceremonies, Dinaric zone and sword skills of moreška. After the Second World War, it is renewed in 1954, and in 1978 it is organized within the framework of Cultural and Artistic Association “Ante Ćefera” which acts as an independent chivalrous association with continuous activities to the present day. In the past Kumpanjija was performed for up to 3 hours, and nowadays, in a solemn form with all 18 figures, it takes up to an hour.
The dance itself is the sequence of historic traditions and talks about defending the town of Smokvica. It is performed in remembrance of all inhabitants who participated in the defense of the island. The game is played on the church square in front of a large number of locals and guests who gladly come to watch this cultural patrimony. The ceremony is preceded by the Holy Mass and a procession through the town with a statue of Our Lady and singing of sacred songs, with participation of all guests and local population.
At the beginning of the warrior dance, the captain of a group of knights requests a command to start, and after permission is granted, this ancient war game may begin. Chain sword dance, extremely demanding and dangerous, is performed with the sound of drums and flag dance, and it also contains elements characteristic of a military parade. Shortly after the sword dance follows the one which also includes women, usually close relatives of players (kumpanjoli). The hosts encourage guests and the audience to participate in the last dance so that they too can make a part of Kumpanija, which also marks the ending of this magnificent spectacle that unites chivalry, skills and traditions.
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[image]http://hotspots.net.hr/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Kumpanija.jpg[/image]
[image]http://hotspots.net.hr/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Smokvica-Ples-015.jpg[/image]
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This post is also available in: Croatian
