SUMMER HOT SPOT Supetar will feed your senses with picturesque sights, landmarks and stories deeply woven into the very identity of this utterly idyllic destination
Once again, the Supetar Tourist Board has totally proven that it has no competition when it comes to combining tradition with modernity. It very successfully branded the destination in a gastronomic sense through the “Unlocking the taste of Brač” project by showcasing the skills of the masters of Supetar's kitchens worthy of Michelin recommendations on our plates. Those incredible dishes were equally inspired by the old recipes of Supetar grandmothers as they were by modern fine dining. Supetar’s gastronomic successes also seem to have been reflected in other segments of its overall tourist offer, so locals decided to prepare their guests a true feast for the soul this time.
Don’t get us wrong, we’re not for a second suggesting that you bypass the magnificent restaurants and taverns in Supetar, we’re merely saying that this time - we’re going to feed your senses with picturesque sights, landmarks and stories deeply woven into the very identity of this utterly idyllic destination.
We’ll take you along four impressive themed trails, which (after all, we’re talking about the masters of combining the traditional and the modern here!) are additionally equipped with all of the advantages of modern technology for an even more realistic experience. Above the quaint village of Splitska, in picturesque, peaceful Mirca and in the town of Supetar itself, intriguing reliefs await us boasting untouched nature, liquid gold from right here on the island, and none other than the father of modern Croatian sculpting, Ivan Rendić, and the greatest Croatian poet of the 20th century, the marvellous Tin Ujević!
Stone that enjoys global fame - To arouse even more intrigue regarding the remarkable story of Brač stone from the Roman era (it adorned the incredible Diocletian's Palace, as well as the lobby of the UN building in New York, part of the White House in Washington, and the parliament buildings in both Vienna and Budapest!), we’ll begin along a 1.1 kilometre themed trail. It starts at the bottom of Splitska’s horseshoe shaped little harbour and leads to the Rasoha quarry itself.
This is otherwise one of several Roman quarries (alongside those in Plate and Stražišće) that are located above the beautiful settlement of Splitska, a mere kilometre away from the sea. It’s the perfect environment to sit back and relax with a favourite book while enjoying the idyllic natural environment.
No book? No problem! Taking in the interesting 80 cm relief of Hercules carved into the rock is also an option. Hercules has been standing alone here for years, so why not snap a few photos of him for social media? We’ll be more than happy to explain to any curious followers that his disproportionately large hands are a symbol of his exceptional strength and the dogged determination of human will. It’s no wonder that hardworking stonemasons adopted him as their protector!
For a complete experience, we can use our phone cameras as a mobile time machine, and step back into an age long gone by. The Supetar Tourist Board created a presentation of real historical events through 3D characters, objects and attractive animations using AI technology. This showcases the process of quarrying and the poor slaves who painstakingly laboured there, as well as the soldiers who controlled and commanded them. That isn’t all, either - so make sure to try it out!
The path to liquid gold - Did you know that there are about a million olive trees growing on the island of Brač today? This gorgeous island is actually considered the largest olive growing area in the entire country! We’ll learn everything about the island’s prized liquid gold during a walk along the Maslinovi puti (Olive paths) pedestrian path, which begins in the quiet, picturesque town of Mirca.
A five kilometre circular path will lead us through ancient and stunning olive groves which continue to grow and produce fruit above the village, all the way to Prihod - the old irrigation system, which has played a vital role in Mirca’s history since ancient times (water was transported from these reservoirs to the village in barrels or in pails that the women then carried on their heads!)
When walking along Maslinovi puti, guided by the trail’s markings, we’ll gain more knowledge about the tradition of olive oil production and the dominant and autochthonous types of olives (oblica, buhavica and levantinka). We’ll also get better acquainted with the timeless and beautiful construction of Brač’s iconic dry walls.
This thematic trail does very well in resisting the woes of seasonality. It can be enjoyed all year round for a bit of recreation and relaxation out in the fresh air. An additional bonus also lies in the fact that the Supetar Tourist Board has further refined its offer with the Olive Trek web application (app), which offers a unique stroll and tour of the area’s breathtaking olive groves using modern technology.
It offers a detailed display of digital trails - revealing their length, terrain and altitude, as well as giving an accurate insight into the average duration of any given tour! In addition to finding out the necessary information through the description, we can see old olive mills, oysters and presses, and take photos using phone cameras.
The sculptor who refused to be forgotten - Supetar is the home of one great artist, hedonist, joker, and carnival lover... you guessed it, it’s the iconic Ivan Rendić, who, according to his namesake (who was also a virtuoso in the sculpting world), Ivan Meštrović, incited a real thirst for sculpting among local artists. The Supetar Tourist Board and the National Library of Supetar decided to honour the unforgettable Ivan Rendić and his greatness in the way he deserved. They designed and marked out a thematic trail called “A Cultural Walk with Rendić”.
The trail highlights significant points in Rendić's life, which are uncannily and rather incredibly synchronous with the important points of this town itself. Along this line, it’s enough to mention the area of Vrdolac in the immediate vicinity of the sculptor's house, which, along with Glavica and Varoš, forms Supetar lifeblood. It’s where life for this town once began and from where it eventually descended down towards the shoreline.
Gustirne played a particularly important role in the sculptor's upbringing, as well as in the life of Supetar. We can reach them by taking a leisurely stroll as part of this themed trail - Gustirne are old wells in which rainwater from the nearby drip tray accumulated, and this way of collecting water was once Supetar’s way of life. It’s the place where all of the town’s secrets and gossip were discussed, as well as where various goods and dishes were washed. This water was warmed up and then used for everyday life.
We particularly enjoyed the crescendo of this walk, and we have no doubt at all that the sculptor himself - a proven slapstick master - would have equally liked it.
With the help of AI (in this case we’re talking about augmented reality), the sculptor himself appears on the screen of the device, instructing the user to wander through Supetar’s cemetery, which is full of his beautiful monuments. As he directs you to the cemetery, he’ll use his legendary sentence: "Where’s Rendić?", before he appears at his very own final resting place there.
Maybe the real Ivan Rendić would be surprised by modern technology for a brief moment, but that would soon be overtaken by his amusement that, just like some sort of witty trick that he was prone to during his life, he’d managed to come to life on the screen of your phone. Naturally, he secured a place in the hearts of his fellow citizens a very long time ago.
A place that abounds in poetic beauty - You know what they say - that you should leave the best till last. We’ve done precisely that. Last but by no means least, we’ll take the path that leads us through a quaint village occupied by olive growers and farmers. Although the name Mirca comes from the Latin word murus (wall), its association in the modern day for most is with exactly what this area abounds in, and in truly incredible quantities - idyllic peace.
"Peace enters me, because this is a suburb of silence..." - penned the great Tin Ujević back in 1929. His own heritage hailed from the island of Brač on his mother's side. His literary work entitled "Discovering Mirca" was the foundation and basis for designing this thematic walking trail, and the Supetar Tourist Board’s wish for this particular path was for everyone who takes it to learn about Mirca’s interesting history along with a pleasant walk.
We’ll be more than glad to follow the approximately five-kilometre-long trail and learn more thanks to the seventeen information boards which tell us more about Mirca’s history, cultural sights and interesting scenes from the long life of this beautiful place, all while admiring its insurmountable poetic beauty. Mirca’s characteristic Dalmatian construction of old stone houses in Mutne kale, the beautiful and ancient dry-stone walls and mulberry trees are all a joy for the eyes. To be frank, the only negative is that it might make you regret not coming back in spring, when (believe it or not) Mirca takes on even more of a gorgeous look with its colourful almond blossoms.
On this occasion, it’s important to understand one thing and one thing only - Supetar has scheduled a rendezvous for us with the beauty that has inspired artists, and we, falling in love again and again, will never refuse to take it up on the offer!
More: www.supetar.hr
Photo: TB Supetar, Marko Lorenzo Blaslov
The allure of Omiš - What not to miss when visiting the town on the Cetina river!
Let the sun rise over the Fortica fortress and set again on the Mirabela fortress - the former
pirate lookouts, and make sure to snap some enviably beautiful photos for your social media
feed!
Treat your palate to some local delights such as soparnik – a delicious dish made from
Swiss chard, white and red onions and of course - locally made olive oil.
When your stomach is not only satisfied but also invigorated by this once rather heavy meal, which has now become a real gastronomic brand of this part of Dalmati, head to the canyon of the emerald green Cetina river - there you can walk, hike, run, climb, or enjoy some rafting, canoeing, and if you’re feeling brave, even try out the king of all adrenaline activities - the zip line.
Don’t forget to pay a visit to the nearby Radman mills, near which there is a hidden river
island better known as the island of love.
When you decide you’re getting a bit too hot, you can easily refresh yourself wonderfully by swimming in the stunning Cetina river, and if you prefer to explore the depths of the sea, dive into Vruja bay, which delights both professional divers and beginners alike.
If you’d prefer to stick to dry land, try your hand at a real competition - join in on one of the
Dalmatian trail leagues - ImberTrek or Mosor Grebbening and the Dalmacija Ultra Trail.
We do need to mention that you can't even say you've been to Croatia’s well known pirate
town without visiting at least one of the fishermans’ nights and at least one destination along
the beautiful Omiš Riviera (Stanići, Lokva, Mimice, Medići, Pisak…) You also need to listen
to at least one Dalmatian klapa music performance live. If you do decide to follow our
instructions, you’ll feel like a local from Omiš in no time.
More: visitomis.hr
Follow the direction of an amazing island experience - VIA BRATTIA is waiting for you!
Despite the fact that it took a while as it was very carefully prepared, VIA BRATTIA, the circular tourist hiking trail of the island of Brač, has finally sprung into life and has opened up this island's sheer beauty to lovers of active holidays, as well as to those who plan to join that group of tourists.
Following two long years of joint work of all of Brač’s tourist boards together, the municipalities of Nerežišća and Pučišća, the Profunda Mountaineering Association, and with the co-financing of the Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board, a new tourist attraction has been ‘’born’’ which will experience the most traffic during the pre- and post-season.
VIA BRATTIA, which is a massive 140 kilometres in length, has connected the whole island, its many exceptional locations, and a large number of small towns and local attractions.
The trail is intended for lovers of hiking, running, nature walks, mountain biking, it is suitable for recreationists and amateurs, but also for all those who want to get to know Brač and its unusual, stunning beauty in a slightly different way. The trail has clearly marked trails in both directions, and you can jump in and take the trail of your desire at any point.
You will be guided to all of the locations by a map and blue and white markers, and you’ll be able celebrate getting through each section with a stamp. With stamps attesting to your success, the end of the road will create a real picture, the coat of arms of the island of Brač, and in it the figure of St. George, the patron saint of this island in the scene of the slaying of the dragon.
VIA BRATTIA tells the truly amazing story of the island of Brač. It starts in Supetar, where you can walk through the streets where the famous sculptor Ivan Rendić, the father of modern Croatian sculpture, used to walk. With the help of a guide, you can start Rendić's tour and find out a lot about his works, but also about the attractions of Supetar, Leroj, the old cisterns, and how life functioned in a small Mediterranean town.
From Supetar you can then head to Mirca, and on the way you can stop in Sutivan, where you can relax in the Lemon Garden heritage hotel, or in many of the small apartments rented out as family accommodation. Then you’ll visit the catacombs, some of the few still in use today. Renting a bike and heading out on one of the island’s very many bike tours is also a top recommendation.
You can also cycle west in the direction of Bobovišća before descending to the sea where you will see an old fortress located on the very waterfront.
But that’s not the only story to be told by this small place. Vladimir Nazor spent his childhood and youth in Bobovšića, and his family house is still there, as is the symbolic tower he built. Next to it lies another, the Three Sisters, with three columns, built by Nazor back in 1937. On its pillars it bears three engraved letters I, O and A, the initials of the names of the sisters Irma, Olga and Amalia. Nazor cared for them throughout his entire life.
The next station is Ložišća, which many call one of the most autochthonous places on the island of Brač, best known for its stunning artistic work, the church bell tower made according to Rendić's designs, and lace carved in stone.
It is interesting how in the introductory part of the anthology series Naše malo misto (Our little place) by Miljenko Smoje, this very beautiful bell tower is shown. After that, it’s time to head down to Milna, a safe harbour for boaters, and a place completely facing the sea. Rade Harašić used to live here, a Milna native from whom Miljenko Smoje created poet Servantes’ character from the aforementioned Croatian cult series. Harašić's collection of paintings is still housed in Milna to this day.
Where you’re about to head off to now is one of the biggest attractions on all of Brač, through the hidden, turquoise bays of the southwest coast of Brač you will reach the Blaca Hermitage.
It is a monastery from back in the 16th century, founded by Glagolitic priests. You can only reach it on foot, so make sure to choose the time of day you take on the challenge carefully and be sure to bring plenty of water with you in the summer heat. Get ready for the goat trails, and the amazing views that await you at the end of this journey.
After that, you can head east, across the bay of Farska and to the town of Murvica where there are three excellent beaches.
Just above Murvica lies the Dragon’s cave, at 200 metres above sea level, which for centuries served as a sanctuary of the Poljica Glagolitic Catholics. They continued to live in it as hermit monks, and today, this astonishing cave is a top cultural location that you simply must see when visiting the island.
Then comes Bol and its trademark, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Zlatni rat (Golden horn), with its crystal clear sea and smooth white pebbles. When spending time in Bol, make sure to visit the Dominican monastery which is home to a library with rare copies of books.
There is also a recently reopened and renovated museum that houses a collection of incunabulum, church vestments and other interesting items. On the altar of the monastery church is the famous Tintoretto's fallen Virgin Mary holding a child which is from the 16th century, another amazing attraction from this part of the island.
Following Bol, you can ascend once again, high up into the hills in Podsmrčevik, to one of the five peasant hamlets with small stone houses, a monument and a symbol of the island’s former pastoral life.
From the hamlet you’ll then descend to the stone white village of Selca, where you can visit the beautiful cathedral on the square, as well as the famous busts and monuments dedicated to many famous people by the diligent stonemasons who come from this area.
From there, you can head down to the shoreline once again, more precisely to Sumartin, where you can visit the Franciscan monastery best known thanks to the poet and Franciscan Andrija Kačić-Miošić. Enjoy a refreshing swim in gorgeous Rasotica bay, then head to Povlja and visit the early Christian basilica located next to the parish church. Then comes the time to visit the famous Pučišća and the stonemasonry school, as well as the beautiful sandy bay of Lovrečina and the remains of the Basilica of St. Lawrence.
the way there lie Postira and the beautiful Villa na Mirju. Next to Postira lies the small town of Dol which has preserved its traditional architecture excellently. Be sure to try out their specialty while you’re there, roasted dormice and the famous hrapoćuša cake, a tasty calorific bomb made from an entire kilo of walnuts and the exact same amount of sugar.
On the way, you will come across a beautiful little place called Škrip which boasts the Museum of the Island of Brač, located in the Radojković tower which dates back to the 16th century. Be sure to stop by the beautiful Uja Museum, followed by a return to your starting point of Supetar.
At the end, you will receive 12 stamps, each one representing each of the 12 points from this unique attraction in the Museum of the Blaca Hermitage, the Dragon's cave, the Dominican Monastery in Bol, Podsmrčevik, the Franciscan Monastery in the Church of St. Martin in Sumartin, the Early Christian Basilica in Povlja, the Stonemasonry School in Pučišća the Basilica of St. Lawrence, Vila na Mirju near Postira and the museum of the Island of Brač in Škrip.
The 11th seal is obtained in the church of St. Spyridon at the crossroads of ancient roads from Sutivan to Mirca, and the last in the church of St. Martin from the location of an extremely important strategic position and view of the sea route through the Split Gate to the Central Dalmatian islands of Hvar, Brac and Solta.
For all those who decide to take this amazing island walk, here are some important tips to be learned. Pedestrian sections would be desirable to do in such a way that sleep is provided in one of the more populated places near the route. The road map provided for the stamps can be downloaded from the Tourist Information Centre of the island, in Supetar, Sutivan, Milna, Bol, Postira, Pučišća, and in Sumartin. The fluid for the stamp should be carried on your person, as should sufficient amounts of water and food, especially in the summer months. And that would be it, VIA BRATTIA is waiting for you, so why not begin by heading in the direction of an amazing island experience?
MORE ABOUT LOCATIONS:
1 – MUSEUM BLACA DESERT
ABOUT LOCATIONS WITH THE STAMPS
1 – Hermitage Blaca Museum
The hermitage (monastery) was founded in the 16th century by the Glagolitic priests who come to Brač fleeding from Poljica before the Turks. Blaca can be reached from many directions, but always exclusively by foot. Blaca are really an exceptional monument of human work, with great historical, economic, artistic and scientific content.
2 – Dragon’s Cave
Dragon’s cave is a monument to the hermit-like monastic life of the Glagolitic priests from the 15th century. It is situated 200 m above the village Murvice, in the heart of Vidova Gora (mountain). Throughout the centuries it has served as the residence and sanctuary of Poljica Glagolitic priests fleeing before the Turkish invasion to continue their monastic life in the caves.
3 – Dominican Monastery In Bol
It was founded in 1475 in a location chosen for the Dominicans by the inhabitants of Bol, and confirmed by the Brač Duke Zacharia. The spiritual and cultural influence of the monastery was felt for centuries, not only in Bol but also the wider region. Aside from the museum in the monastery there is also a library with rare books and manuscripts.
4 – PODSMRČEVIK
Podsmrčevik is one of five hamlets settled in the inner part of the island, northwest of Selca. Today they are almost abandoned because their people settled in nearby settlements.
The oldest parts of this hamlet are characterized by small stone houses covered in stone slabs, using the dry-wall technique or built from hewn stone blocks, with enclosed gardens and stables.
5 – Franciscan Monastery And The Parish Church Of St. Martin In Sumartin
Fleeing the Turks Franciscan monks came with the settlers and founded Sumartin in the middle of the 17th century. The monastery is synonymous with the legendary poet and Franciscan monk Andrija Kačić-Miošić and today holds a private museum with valuable collection of artifacts. Next to the parish church also look for the footprint commemorating the “Footsteps of St. Martin de Tours”.
6 – Early Christian Basilica In Povlja
Many visitors come to Povlja to see the early Christian basilica on the grounds of the parish church. The remains of the Early Christian basilica date back from 5th and 6th centuries.
Many parts of this triple – naved basilica can be seen in their entirety, also as an area of the former baptistery. Povaljski prag and Povaljska listina, of great importance to Croatian history, also originated here.
7 – The Stonemason school in Pučišća
The Stonemason school began with its work in the remote 1909. This is the only school in the Republic of Croatia that educates the stone masons. Its work is based on the ancient Roman stone processing technology using hand crafted tools. It is recognized throughout the world and is being visited by innumerous visitors each year. The skill of hand stone processing using the old Roman tools nourished in the Stonemason school is protected by non-material cultural heritage of the Republic of Croatia.
8 – Lovrečina And The Basilica Of St. Lawrence
The Roman farm was built in Lovrečina bay, close to a water source and a fertile field. In the 5th century a Benedictine monastery was founded in the border area with the church dedicated to St. Lawrence, whose name has been preserved in the name of the bay. Lovrečina is the biggest sandy bay on the island Brač.
9 – Late Antique Villa On Mirje Near Postira
Mirje is situated among the two important centers on the Adriatic part of the province: Diocletian’s palace in Split and imperial quarries near Škrip, from which architectural stone for building the monumental palace was cut.
Numerous fragments of stone furniture confirmed the existence of a sacral building from the 6th century. The analysis of the discovered walls suggests that the complex was not built for the convent’s community, but that was in fact a later adaptation of the late antique villa with thermal complex.
10 – The Island Of Brač Museum In Škrip
The Island of Brač Museum, situated in Radojković Tower from the 16th century, is one of the Croatian most visited museums, annually visited by more than 15 000 people. Its foundations date back 1500 years A.C. In the lower floor of the Museum, there is a Roman Mausoleum where, according to the legend, rest Valerija and Priska – wife and daughter of the Roman emperor Diocletian. The Island of Brač Museum in Škrip is the place not to be missed when visiting Brač.
11 – St. Spiridon’s Church
Uniquely shaped small chapel at the crossroad of ancient roads from Sutivan to Mirca and former parish Donji Humac (16th century). Not far from the church there is a speleological location (pit), the only one in Sutivan area.
12 – Church of St.Martin
We don’t know exact time construction of the church of St.Martin, but shows early Romanesque style characteristics. On the facade of her annexed bell tower in the late 15th century. Simply stone facade on top of a brick distaff with a triangular pediment from the 14th century church is vaulted barrel vault without a flange, and the walls were broken down broad shallow niches. Above the altar is a Renaissance stone relief, workshop Firentinac, depicting St. Martin and the beggar on horseback.
photo: Hrvoje Gabrić, Robert Barilla, Alan Čaplar, archive TB Brač island
Hot Spots summer destination! Island Pag - feel the Magic of the Moon Island
Island of Pag is an unmissable global outdoor destination, as well as an international film and marketing attraction.
No one has original folk costumes like those Pag has. No woman wears a starched canvas in the shape of a triangle on her head, which frames the beautiful faces of the women and girls from Pag, these canvases are called blankets on the island of Pag and in Novalja, known as the Moon Island.
The island is decorated with one of the protected symbols of Croatian heritage, traditional, beautiful Pag lace, recognisable across the world as one of the most beautiful handicrafts made by the hands of women.
This summer, Pag is once again the number one destination, not only in Croatia but also globally.
The story cleverly developed over the years has led to the birth of Pag becoming an IN location, which must be included in every travel planner.
Because Pag has long been not just one of the top destinations for incredible entertainment, and by gradually building the story, this island has become an unmissable global outdoor destination, as well as an international film and marketing attraction.
And more than anything, this has been presented by the latest campaign that brought together a few wise minds from the island, reinforced by a top professional, well-established photographer Jakov Baričić.
Such a coming together of minds could bring about absolutely nothing but the very best, a story about the island of Pag that brought everything that makes you have to visit this island as soon as possible up to the surface.
And Pag has been enrolled as a must-see destination from the travel plans for many Croatian and foreigner travellers.
Because only here can one take fascinating street style and nature selfies and photos, and much like the trendsetters who have already done so, capture the absolute best that the island of Pag has to offer.
Now, what does one choose in that sheer abundance of options? Moon-like landscapes, beautiful bays, amazing scenes like from another planet? The magical yet modest convent of the Benedictine nuns, the alleyways, the beaches with the crystal clear sea surrounded by a lunar landscape and bare rocks?
Maybe some of Pag’s gastronomic delicacies? Or the incredible beauty of Pag’s women and girls wearing their original costumes, which are kept in families like the crown jewels and passed down from generation to generation?
This is exactly what Jakov Baričić showcased about Pag in his works, weaving fashion, tradition and amazing photography into the heart of the story.
The island of Pag has definitely been the most desirable Croatian outdoor destination for a long time now, which, on the basis of having earned such a title, has been providing fascinating natural attractions to its visitors.
. The most significant thing is the incredible landscapes which resemble the moon itself, extremely rare natural scenery that serves as the background of the trails for the most important outdoor event on the island of Pag - the Life on Mars race.
They were actually the beginning of an integrated programme of outdoor activities that positioned the island globally as a top destination for lovers of active tourism. The above is especially true for cycling tourism, and for trails, running and hiking tourism. Aware of the importance of the potential that Pag offers due to its natural features, the the island's united forces have put together a special development plan with phases that will be built on in detail and gradually expanded over this year and the next three years. The project ‘’One island and one common vision’’ was created, with the aim of uniting and branding the island of Pag as a destination for outdoor tourism.
Such natural features didn’t go unnoticed even by film moguls who discovered the perfect scenery for some of the shots from their bestsellers in a surreal backdrop. Are you the type who likes to visit the locations where the famous films were shot?
If so, there are some great opportunities for precisely that on Pag, for example; the shot on the beaches of Novalja, which the director of photography Danny Moder, the husband of ‘’Pretty Woman’’ actress Julia Roberts, chose to shoot the film ‘’Ibiza’’.
On Zrće beach, he also shot with the famous actor from the HBO series Game of Thrones, Richard Madden, who played Robb Stark in the first three seasons. The views of Pag also delighted Oscar winner Gabriel Salvatores, who included them in his new road movie ‘’Strangers in Paradise’’.Pag was the ideal backdrop for the filming of the world-famous series The Terror in fantastic locations such as the rough, rugged Paska vrata, produced by Oscar-winning director and producer - the genius Ridley Scott, who is best known for films such as Thelma & Louise, Alien, Blade Runner, Black Hawk Down and Gladiator, for which he won an Oscar and a Golden Globe for the best picture.
When it comes to the small screen, other jewels from Pag have caught the eyes of the creators of various advertising campaigns, and as a result we now have fantastic global campaigns for the most famous fashion magazine in the world - Vogue. And we all know that where Vogue goes, everyone goes, especially since the fashion giant chose Novalja and the island of Pag for their third fashion editorial.
After the Ukrainian and Latin American Vogue, Pag’s alluring ambiance was discovered by the Portuguese edition, and behind them stands the young photographer Jakov Baričić, a well-known name in the Croatian and global fashion industry.
Why Pag, why the beaches Ručica and Beriknica in Metajna? Precisely because, as the director of the Tourist Board of the City of Novalja, Marina Šćiran Rizner, reveals, like other beaches on the island of Pag, it is among the most stunning in all of Croatia.
And what Vogue chooses is noticed by other magazines such as Elle, Harper’s Bazaar and others which have included the island of Pag, its beaches and the views from the Lun olive groves in their advertising catalogues.
Then there are the numerous campaigns, for example for famous brands such as Rimac’s cars, BMW, Porsche, Mercedes, Honda, limited American Triumph motorcycles, and Japan’s Canon... They took Pag under their wing, and in that sense they took Pag across the whole world. And given the fact that Pag has gone out into the world, here is another good reason for the world to come to Pag, to taste, feel, smell and enjoy the best that this island has to offer. The island boasts many fantastic locations and five destinations - Novalja, Pag, Kolan, Stara Novalja, Povljana. Five pearls of the island that are part of the great strategy to brand the island as one single entity.
They ‘’performed’’ together at foreign tourism fairs, and together they launched events such as the rowing regatta ‘’Osmerci on Pag’’ and ‘’Pag on the menu’’. This also resulted in the signing of a joint agreement of all the tourist boards of the island of Pag and the branding of the destination through outdoor tourism.
NEW PROMO VIDEO
A joint tourist-oriented work is also coming to market, a film that brought to the forefront some of the island's most important acquisitions. The City of Pag presented itself with its UNESCO-protected Pag lace, a beautiful view of the old town reminiscent of Dubrovnik, folk costumes, dances from Pag, and gastronomic attractions, to the people of the Benedictine monastery of St. Margaret.
The film also presented the undisputed gastronomic delicacies such as the famous Pag cheese, but also views of the Pag saltworks, the ‘’Embrace of stone and wind’’ cycling path which was co-financed by the Ministry of Regional Development and EU funds, and the island’s Nordic walking trails. It showcased only what is already well known, that Pag is, more than anything, the entire taste and smell of the destination, the perfect place to relax and the provider of a truly unforgettable experience.
There is also the award-winning camp Straško and camp Šimuni, cultural heritage, galleries which showcase the island’s inherited wealth, ornithological reserves, an amazing underwater amphora site near Šimun, the protected area of the Hanzina forest, the Lun olive groves, the Roman aqueduct…
Anyone who comes to Pag will find it difficult to leave it again. Because, among other things, the bay of Ručica awaits its visitors with its gorgeous long sandy beaches framed by bare rocks that stretch steeply out into the sea. Or the numerous beaches that stretch along the entire island.
You can enjoy the view of the dry stone walls, climb up to the various lookouts, and even enjoy Pag’s healing mud. Some will choose to observe the birds in the ornithological reserve, many will be interested in the famous Pag Triangle, a place which carries with it a legend about extraterrestrial civilisations that may have left their mark there.
Are you perhaps in favour of sage cheese, or one made from a combination of sheep's and cow's milk that has been awarded many times at various fairs in the country and throughout the world?
Or maybe you’re up for some cheese with paprika? We definitely recommend trying the cheese with green and black olives, cottage cheese as a rhapsody of flavours, and pralines with Pag cheese, which can also be taken home as an original island souvenir.
All of this is Pag, a combination of traditional, modern, the future, recognisable and ready to lure you to it.
You know the saying: When you dip your finger in the sea you are connected to the whole world. The same is also true of Pag: When you experience Pag, you experience life.
The island is just waiting for you to grab it with both hands and a set of full lungs.
More:
www.visitnovalja.hr
www.tzkolan-mandre.com
www.tzgpag.hr
www.tzstaranovalja.hr
www.visitpovljana.eu
Photo: archieve TB Pag
THE HOLIDAY OF YOUR DREAMS! New promotional video showcasing the beauty of Central Dalmatia launched!
The Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board has launched a new communication concept - a promotional video called Central Dalmatia - A Dream Waiting For You
After months of dormancy and marketing inactivity, the Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board has launched a promotional campaign aimed at the surrounding markets. The Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board has been patiently waiting for the adequate conditions to be achieved, i.e. for a favourable epidemiological situation to be declared, and for the establishment of tourist traffic to begin.
The most prominent part of the promotional campaign is a new video, launched just a few days ago, aimed at targeted European markets, and designed by the Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board to communicate with its millions of followers on social networks Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and other online platforms. Making a step forward in terms of marketing as we begin re-opening borders and establishing tourist traffic in these areas. Given the circumstances that have ensued across the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the almost complete cessation of tourist movement, this campaign wants to draw the attention of current and future tourists to the beauty of Central Dalmatia, the favourable epidemiological situation in this region, and the availability of travel.
Central Dalmatia and all of its treasures, the beauty of its lakes, rivers, sea, beaches, bays, towns and islands are ready and waiting for guests to arrive. In Central Dalmatia there lie safe, preserved, coronavirus free locations which are full of hidden beauty and are always ready to reveal themselves to dear friends and guests. Central Dalmatia truly represents a treasure trove of feelings and a set of memories for those who have already been met with its beauty.
This is a dream that awaits all those who will meet Central Dalmatia for the very first time. Central Dalmatia is still here and is now ready for socialisation again, sending out an invitation for all who want to get a taste of a holiday which will never leave their minds and hearts. All of the above is why Central Dalmatia is inviting all those who want to experience real adventures on the journey of a lifetime, to come and get better acquainted with this area as the most special and indeed most diverse car destination. At every new corner, behind every bend in the road, and after exiting every tunnel, Central Dalmatia provides a new, most beautiful postcard.
The Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board has thus launched promotional campaigns aimed at the markets of Germany, Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Austria. And this time, it’s turning towards all those who are ready to step into this new platform of Central Dalmatia’s tourist offer.
Those who do step into this new platform will be provided with a perfect holiday that they will never forget even in the post-coronavirus era. The platform suggests that people come and get better acquainted with the specialties Central Dalmatia offers as a car destination, which includes a wide variety of specifics. Because Central Dalmatia is more than just another tourist destination, one of those aforementioned specificities is the feeling of 100 percent freedom, and at the same time the most beautiful sense of harmony. It is an area where every friend and guest can feel all the treasures this area has to offer - all in one place.
’We are carefully monitoring the situation in the main emitting markets of Central Dalmatia, just as our hoteliers, caterers and hospitality workers, tourist camps, owners of family accommodation and the nautical tourism sector are all waiting for an agreement between the epidemiological and tourist professions which should enable the protection of human health and the realisation of the summer portion of this tourist year. But in the meantime, despite the modest funds available to the County Tourist Board under these circumstances, we have prepared promotional campaigns aimed at our traditional markets of Germany, Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Austria. Through them, we will further promote Central Dalmatia as a destination to which one can drive. The most prominent part of the promotional campaign is the new video that was launched a few days ago, which is aimed at targeted European markets and represents a step forward in terms of marketing at this time when we’re starting to open borders again and establish tourist traffic in these areas,’’ says Joško Stella, director of the Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board.
Through this way of getting better acquainted with the area, every new and previous guest in Central Dalmatia has the opportunity to get to know the connection between the past and the present, the gastronomy offered here, as well as get a taste of adrenaline, fun and relaxation. Through car tours, they will get to see Central Dalmatia’s UNESCO cities, Trogir and Split, drink coffee in Emperor Diocletian’s square, enjoy the healthiest Mediterranean food in the world, and watch kite surfers on the city’s beaches.
They will go to the Dalmatian hinterland, taste grilled trout from the rivers, and taste top-quality home-made wine from carefully looked-after vineyards. They will head south, to the famous beach in Bol, to Zlatni rat, and see this unique world phenomenon that changes shape as the wind blows with their own eyes.
They will swim in the crystal clear coves, enjoy the sea, which has never been more gentle and transparent, and then they will return to the coast again. They can then soar up high into the hills of Omis, to enjoy the lookout from the palms of their hands, and in its centre, in a city where honour and freedom were guarded by the famous Omis Pirates.
There, one can walk through the cobbled streets and head in the direction of the Makarska Riviera and choose which of the gorgeous beaches to descend down to. There, they will feel something that will never leave their heads again, some will feel the warmth of the soul of the place and its people, some will have the feeling of unique fun imprinted on their souls, and everyone will have a memory that will stay with them forever.
Because when Central Dalmatia invites you as a guest, then everyone who responds will start breathing with full lungs again. Come to Central Dalmatia to taste happiness.
More: dalmatia.hr
Visit Omiš – a town of pirates!
They went any length even against the Pope, their fast boats were a thorn in Venetian's side, and not one ship could pass without paying them fee
Not much is needed for happiness, a saying familiar to the owner of a house where even today stays a writing Thank you Lord for my presence on this world. Locals especially like it, tourists find it attractive, so the house got a name The House of a Happy Man.
Relaxed lifestyle, perfect climate and beautiful landscape shaped by the Cetina canyon, the sea and Dinara mountain make Omiš people truly fortunate. Their town is not just another attractive holiday destination on the Adriatic, but also a place of rich cultural heritage.
The Nemesis of
Split and Dubrovnik
Historians would probably
start from the beginning – two thousand years ago when Cetina mouth was being
inhabited. But, we'll skip all those centuries of long and turbulent past and
take you to 12th and 13th century, in time of Kačić princes who had the most
famous pirate fleet on the Adriatic. Striking everyone with fear, Omiš's
pirates charged free sailing to everyone who passed their town.
For almost two centuries they ruled this part of the Adriatic while attacking merchant ships of great maritime cities of Split, Dubrovnik, Kotor and Venice. They didn't even flinch before Pope's galleys sailing to Palestine. It was pope Honorius III who lost the First Crusade against Omiš people in 1221. 60 years later, in the Second Crusade, fought by Venetians on behalf of the Pope, Omiš pirates weren't so lucky. Not long after the lost battle Kačičs retrieved from the town, defeated and weakened, but not giving up piracy for a long time.
It resisted the battles, but not a thunderstroke
As a permanent reminder of famous history above the old town stands fortress Mirabela– former pirate lookout from which entire Brač channel is visible, ensuring that no ship passes unspotted. Thanks to Byzantine coin found in its foundations its construction is dated back to the 13th century.
Those foundations resisted numerous battles and wars, but not a thunderstorm 30 years ago, when a thunder stroke at the top of the fortress and demolished it completely. Today it is restored into its original shape and is a favourite tourist site. It is most easily reached by steps that start at Omiš's largest church – St. Michael's.
The biggest summer
manifestation in Dalmatia
Although they've given up piracy centuries ago, Omiš
people still keep their sea agility, which is confirmed every 18 August. On
this day more than ten thousand visitors from all over the world come to Omiš
to enjoy in history revived and reconstruction of Pirate Battle between Omiš
people and Venetians. Apart from Omiš's pirates many historical groups take
part in this manifestation: Dubrovnik Trombunjeri, Klis Uskoks, Knight's
society Kumpanija from Blato on Korčula, Župski Gospari, Pirates from Župa
Dubrovačka and Cultural Society St. Juraj, Poljica.
More: www.dalmatia.hr
Photo: www.dalmatia.hr, croatia.hr, archive of tourist boards of Split – Dalmatia County
Full of life! Four things you ought to know about active vacation in Central Dalmatia
Bike&hike, big game fishing, sailing, diving, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, horse-riding, paintball, zip line – possibilities are endless and only one life to live! In Central Dalmatia they live it up to the hilt!
Beauty is in the movement – claim recreationists, sportsmen and active vacation enthusiasts. It offers a sense of freedom, makes you push the boundaries, open new vistas, feel pleasure, fulfilment and bursts of energy.
All it takes to experience real adventure is to get out of your comfort zone – Split-Dalmatia County is one of the rare places that offers extremely wide range of possibilities for this.
Slow down, what’s
the hurry?
Surprisingly, this
well-known saying in Dalmatia depicts contemporary adventurers the best. They
don’t rush around a destination, spending their vacation in superficial,
fast-paced tours. On the contrary, they truly soak up the atmosphere of a
destination, often taking two or three days for hanging out with locals to be
shown places they otherwise would never visit.
They enjoy in wild beauty of Dalmatian Zagora, leisure island lifestyle, discover rich heritage of coastal towns – some even on a bike. With a total of 128 cycling roads Split-Dalmatia County is one of the most desired cycling destinations.
Visitors’ goals vary from conquering mountain peaks, testing one’s fitness on hilly terrains, riding along the Cetina valley or near Red and Blue Lake, discovering old churches and architecture; whatever your aim is, you’ll have a priceless experience!
For those not
afraid to get off the beaten track
Guests in search of active vacation are most often environmentally
conscious so they avoid asphalt and prefer to move along macadam and country
roads. True challenge present hiking and mountaineering roads, which Central
Dalmatia abounds in.
Spending time in nature makes you environmentally conscious, develops sense for natural habitats and your own health and helps to reduce noise and pollution – claim those in favour of bike&hike tourism, who find Central Dalmatia an absolute hit!
Biokovo, Dinara, Vidova gora…are hikers’ and free climbers’ favourite destinations, while experienced riders enjoy in famous equestrian clubs in Dalmatian Zagora, often choosing extended tours that last for several days.
It’s easier in
a team
Calm sea is a unique experience if you choose
kayaking, and they say that it’s best to do it on Brač, Hvar and Vis. For
sailing some wind comes in handy - together with an experienced skipper to take
you to most secret Dalmatian bays.
Those in love with big game fishing have discovered
Dalmatia as well, while divers have been familiar with it for a while now, so
there is an abundance of diving centres to take you to a dive of your life.
Whoever visited the Cetina was breath-taken. From its
spring in Zagora to its mouth in Omiš, it conquers with its beauty along all
104 kilometres.
For years it has been a number one destination for rafting and canoeing, equally enjoyed by the domestic and foreign visitors; don’t worry about your fitness level – all’s easier in a team!
Zip line – an experience to remember Those who are afraid of heights will miss one of the most beautiful views of the Cetina river. Descending along 2 100 metres long steel rope above the river in Omiš is really a thing anyone can do.
Believe us, you’re well-secured, you get a short training and as a bonus – a walk in beautiful nature.
Fear is to be overcome – say experienced adventurers who slide along Omiš’s zip line with the greatest ease. Listen to them and do not miss an experience to remember for the rest of your life!
More: www.dalmatia.hr
Photo: www.dalmatia.hr, archive of tourist boards of Split – Dalmatia County
Faktor X - Dalmatian Zagora – new vacation dimension
Unjustly in a shadow of coastal and island tourist destinations, Dalmatian Zagora has recently been revealing itself as an unexplored terra incognita, a treasure map abounding in X spots – there are so many hidden treasury chests revealing themselves to their visitors.
The one thing Zagora doesn’t have – the sea – is replaced by numerous natural and cultural sights, contemporary and historical manifestations, which are unavoidably spiced up with drops of wine ripen under the hot karst sun and the most delicious bites of traditional cuisine, nowhere else in the world to be found – we can assure you!
It wasn't by chance targeted by the conquerors – every bit of freedom here was paid in blood, and every bite taken from the karst. It is a region where every stone has its story, a region of legends, fairies, uskok and hajduk knights, lively folk tales, but above all, a region where people stingy with words, offer their heart instead.
SINJ
Tucked in a flow of clear and cold the Cetina River, surrounded by peaks of rocky mountain beauties Svilaja, Dinara and Kamešnica, knight's town Sinj is proud of its jewels: UNESCO protected Alka and church of Our Miraculous Lady of Sinj.
The liveliest period in Sinj is in August, when except the Alka festivities, hordes of pilgrims come to celebrate the day of Our Great Lady, (August 15), searching for comfort and hope in front of painting of Miraculous Lady of Sinj and her gentle look. Concert of Marian spiritual music Klape Gospi Sinjskoj, (August 1), is an exceptional event, while Music Nights on Kamičak Fort, (August 17), authentic star-shaped fortress with a beautiful stage under the clear sky hosts concerts of classical, traditional and jazz world musicians (Ratko Zjača & Nocturnal four).
Historical spectacle The Siege of Sinj 1715, August 8, as a time machine takes the audience in the times of famous battle under Sinj. Sinj village fair, (August 2 – 3), traditionally presents and offers various homemade eco-products – from decorations and handy crafts to gourmet delicacies and products of our villages and islands. Visitors can anjoy in grear live music, at S.A.R.S. Music and beer festival, (July 19 – 21), Etno Kamičak festival, (August 23 – 24), hypnotic untouched nature and pleasant company – Gljevstok, (June 22), whichis more than a festival – it is an ode to escape from everyday haste, harmony and peace which can be found only far away from city asphalt - under the starry sky unspoiled by artificial lighting.
. If you want to experience full adventure of Sinj, then go to the Sinj hippodrome and enjoy in Gallop and hurdle race, or visit Aeroclub Sinj Airport (Airshow, Sailing Cup, Parachute Cup) at Piket. Professional instructors will show you their sport activities and show you one different perspective of the city.
TRILJ
Town of bridges over the
Cetina, is one most perfectly harmonised combination of active vacation, unique
nature and cultural-historic sights and elegant manifestations. Visitors can
try rafting, horse-riding, cycling but also get to know cultural heritage of
Trilj and the surrounding by visiting forts Nutjak and Čačvina, Grab mills or
precious archaeological locality Tilurij. Trilj
Cultural Summer (June – September) always offers interesting program, and
it's worth pointing out Thrill Blues
Festival, (July 5 – 6) that attracts to Cetina region the greatest names of
world blues and is exceptionally visited.
Trilj, „grad mostova“ na Cetini, još je jedna sjajno usklađena kombinacija aktivnog odmora, jedinstvenih prirodnih i kulturno-povijesnih znamenitosti te izvrsno osmišljenih manifestacija. Posjetitelji se mogu okušati u raftingu, jahanju, biciklizmu te upoznati kulturnu baštinu Trilja i okolice posjetom utvrdama Nutjak i Čačvina, grapskim mlinicama ili dragocjenom arheološkom lokalitetu Tilurij. Triljsko kulturno ljeto (Lipanj – Rujan) uvijek nudi zanimljiv program, a valja izdvojiti Thrill Blues Festival (5.- 6. Srpnja) koji u Cetinsku krajinu redovito privlači najveća imena svjetskoga bluesa i iznimno je dobro posjećen.
It's (not) coming home? Although before the defeat from Croatia in last World Championship, the English claimed that football is coming home, Cetina people wouldn't agree, and they have solid evidence – tombstone of a 7-year old Roman boy Gaj Liberije, holding a ball ornamented with hexagons is the first symbol of a real lather ball, (proof of this is that the stem was found on Gardun near Trlja, and is located in Vrlička street in Sinj).
Originally Illyrian, football is a game Delmats used to play long before the arrival of Roman army, but it was the most popular in Trilj's Gardun, amongst Roman soldiers and noblemen. Today we can enjoy in show football match between Delmats and Romans, very fun comedian theatrical show, which is held in Trilj during summer and in Sinj (July 27).
KLIS
Before it became a site of attractive battles, intrigues, betrayals and revenges of the Game of Thrones, Klis Fort has stood proudly for centuries, blended in a stone cliff like a chameleon. A master-piece of fortification architecture, at the crossroads between the hinterland and the sea, it was a residence of first Croatian rulers, especially in stormy times of Croatian resistance to Ottoman attack.
The memory of those turbulent days is cherished by a Klis Uskok troups. Uskok's battle for Klis is a traditional medieval festival held every year in summer (July 26 – 28). The main event is spectacular staging of the famous battle from 1532, when many uskoks faced the Ottomans, severely outnumbered. Visitors can see medieval market, try archery and enjoy in sword dance, learn traditional folk songs, taste homemade dishes and drinks and buy authentic souvenirs.
Klis Cultural Summer (June – September) is a main
manifestation abounding in theatrical shows, concerts, exhibitions and folk
festivities and fishermen nights. Klapa gathering on Klis gathers the best
performers of this autochthonous Croatian a
capella music performance. On the south slope of Klis make sure to visit parish
church of Resurrection of Blessed Virgin Marry, a basilica decorated with
frescas of Biblical and historical motifs, one of which tells the story of the
fort.
Wells on Rajčica, an intriguing mosaic of 10 perfectly built circles with steps descending down to the water, is one of the most beautiful natural phenomena of Klis hinterland. The wells surrounded by drywalls are protected Croatian intangible heritage and present an unavoidable attraction wrapped in a veil of mystique – legend says that the wells were here even before the Roan came, and that in spite of severe draughts they've never run dry.
.
VRLIKA
VRLIKA
Another significant medieval
fortification, Prozor Fort, was built at the turn from 14th to 15th century.
From the fort spreads an impressive view of Vrlika field, Perućko lake and the
very town and its surroundings.
Česma (Vrilo) is a
picturesque park from 19th century, a spring of one of many the Cetina
tributaries. As an important place for gatherings and socializing, it was an
inspiration to Milan Begović and his libretto for the most popular Croatian
opera comedy “Ero the Joker”, (August 3) performed every year at this exact
authentic location. Final dance of the opera is a Vrlika silent circle dance,
UNESCO-protected intangible cultural heritage.
Hundred kilometres of pure beauty of the Cetina river comes from at least 11 tributary springs, but the biggest, the strongest and the most beautiful is Glavaš spring, 130 metres deep. It is watched over by old-Croatian church od St. Spas from 9th century, one of our most precious and most beautiful archaeological sites. Cetina is to be credited for the beauties of Perućko lake, with its breath-taking beauty and vast richness of flora and fauna. It is popular especially with rowers and fishermen and bathers during summer.
Vrlika people organize several interesting manifestations, and even one world championship – in frying Vrlika’s doughnuts (July 20). Cultural-art association “Milan Begović” organizes very visited traditional Night of song, dance and folk customs (July 27) when cultural heritage of the entire Croatia is presented, and speciall Vrlika silent circle dance and ojkavica ( traditional folk singing).
VRGORAC
Vrgorac – town of poetry, ballads,
towers, tombstones, the sweetest strawberries, autochthonous Dalmatian
prosciutto and wine, a town of mystic beauty, belvederes, springs, canyons and
caves.
In honour of great Croatian poet Tin Ujević, born in Dizdara Fort, since 1995 Vrgorc has cherished literary-cultural manifestation With Tin in Vrgorac. On his birthday anniversary, on 5 July, poetry laureates are awarded with annual literary award of Society of Croatian poets “Tin Ujević”. Tin cultural summer treats visitors with numerous theatrical shows, workshops and concerts.
The locals are proud of their traditional three-day wine-gastro manifestation Days of Dalmatian prosciutto and wine (May 31 – June 2 2019.), which gathers many producers and exhibitors, and visitors can enjoy in top quality Dalmatian prosciutto and other meat delicacies, exceptional wines of autochthonous Vrgorac varieties like zlatarica vrgoska and trnak and many other homemade products.
ŠESTANOVAC
Only 15 km from Omiš and the
place where Cetina flows into the Adriatic sea, Šestanovac Municipality is an
ideal destination for excursionists and those in search of relaxation in
untouched nature, small villages and vacation houses.
It is exactly the Cetina river, untouchable karst beauty, that offers the most vacation opportunities, Cetina rapids aren’t too demanding, and waterfalls and deep canyon are a stunning stage for rafting and canyoning. Rafting is adjusted to all age groups, while warm Mediterranean climate together with mountain canyon and the river are a guarantee for unforgettable adventures.
If you want to enjoy the river without additional requisites canyoning is ideal activity – jumping in refreshing Cetina, swimming, hiking and floating through the river, rock climbing…
Šestanovac is proud of its ecological olive grove Jurin dvor, which raises plantation of olives since 2006 exclusively on ecological grounds. Winery Biskupović has cherished the tradition of wine-making for thirty year; each of their 3000 vines has fought relentless conditions of scarce ground.
IMOTSKI
Imotski, located on the border of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Dalmatia attracts attention with its most picturesque natural master-pieces, Red and Blue Lake, favourite excursion destination of the locals and tourists.
During summer heat Blue Lake turns into a lively refreshing destination, and when it dries up it becomes an attractive and unique football field. Red Lake is unapproachable due to steep cliffs that surround it. Nature has played here and created more lakes of peculiar looks and names: Two eyes, Prosutica lake, Krenica and Provalija, Galipovac, Lokvičićka lakes and Knezovića lake.
Imotska sila (July 5 – 8) (silo/sijelo – village evening gathering due to some joint
work, with entertainment) is a cultural manifestation bringing fun and a spirit
of culture into Imotski nights since 1976. This year start with Hasanaaginica
performance. Actors in Zagvozd (June
30 – August 10) is a traditional gathering of the best national theatre
performances.
As organizers put it – a fairy tale-like journey into a little oasis of theatre, music, dance, art, socializing and friendship. It is especially lively in Imotski on 2 August, during celebration of Our Lady of Angels, patron saint of the town and entire Imotski region. Our Lady of Angels is celebrated in memory of 1717, when outnumbered and poorly armed Imotski people, with the help of Venetians, defeated mighty Ottoman army.
DUGOPOLJE
Dugopolje is situated next to the field of the same name, under north slopes of Mosor mountain, rich with sinkholes and karst pits you can visit by following many mountaineering roads.
It is most definitely worth visiting Kraljeva peć, unique natural phenomenon and Vranjača cave – a miraculous underground world of stalagmites and stalactites and stone sculptures created by water flow.
You can also take a walk along Roman road, which used to lead from Salona to Aequum settlement (Čitluk near Sinj) and military camp Pons Tiluri (Gardun near Trilj). International folklore gatherings Beauty in the Stone have been held in Dugopolje since 2004. In late September (29.9.) Dugopolje celebrates its patron saints St. Michael and Jeronim. Together with traditional holly masses and processions, numerous sports and cultural events are organized, with unavoidable folk festivities.
More: www.dalmatia.hr
Photo: www.dalmatia.hr, Tourist boards of Sinj, Trilj, Imotski, Klis, Vrlika, Vrgorac, Dugopolje, Šestanovac
Explore our greatest island - Brač is mysterious and irresistible!
ATTRACTIVE IN PRESEASON AS WELL. However – and wherever – you decide to explore it – on two wheels, along the paths of its worthy cultural heritage, or even through its cuisine – Brač is equally mysterious and irresistible.
Let your visit be active, but tasty as well – cycling in idyllic ambience and going on excursions to cultural-historical treats can be spiced up with gourmet ones – homemade lamb that melts in your mouth, wine that gently tickles your nostrils and palates – and one of the most delicious cakes in the world!
A WAY TO BRAČ’S HEART. In recent years Brač has made an incredible progress as far as cyclotourism is concerned, and we can say that interest for an adventure on two wheels has spread from Sutivan, which has always been associated with sports thanks to Vanga Regule festival and Bike Friendly Sutivan project.
Brač is an island with the greatest number of arranged cycling roads – even 25! All you have to do is choose the one according to your taste. They were named after saint-patrons, winds and Mediterranean herbs. We especially like Heart of Brač - it will present you with untouched Brač as it used to be, but also with ten medieval and Renaissance churches!
Some roads are so intriguing that aren’t for those of weak nerves – for example, Macića and Vivera road was named after surreal creatures from local legends about Postira, and it will take you to the oldest place on Brač – Škrip and Dol – home of the famous hrapoćuša cake full of walnuts and strong ingredients, resembling Brač’s karst!
If you want truly royal experience of cycling, set out on the longest of all tracks – St. Juraj!
This 180.1 km long road takes you to all the places on the island of Brač, and it rightfully bears the name of the island’s patron saint. It contains the best of everything - the most beautiful bell tower of parish church in Ložišća, whose author is Ivan Rendić; church of St. Peter with a pine grooving from its roof in Nerežišća, magical Golden Cape in Bol that changes shape depending on the wind and sea currents; church of Christ King in Selca – the so called Brač Cathedral, early-Christian basilica in Povlja, Masonry School in Pučišća and the Island of Brač Museum in Škrip!
CULTURAL SITES WORTH VISITING. Did you know that Brač is a true treasury of worthy cultural-historical and sacral heritage? Although sightseeing of certain locations can be combined with riding along cycling roads, to visit Brač particularly for its cultural heritage is a great idea in pre- and post-season. Our starting point would be Selca, a place of the same-named municipality that is known as the centre of Brač culture – beautiful stone alleys and squares reveal long tradition of masonry, while the greatest church on the island – Brač’s Cathedral, keeps many more jewels of sacral heritage, like the sculpture of Christ’s Heart by Ivan Meštrović.
Nearby village Povlja also has many curiosities – maybe you didn’t know that there you can find one of the oldest Croatian language and cultural-historical monuments, like Povaljska Charter and Povaljski Threshold, and early-Christian basilica from 6th century? This is just one of even 116 noted Brač’s sacral objects distinguished by different style!
Much aware of this enormous treasury of our greatest island, leading men of County’s tourism published cultural tourist guide several years ago, with a concept of itinerary, where you can find true sightseeing jewels – from Baroque parish churches and their worthy altarpieces, to medieval churches with characteristic hanging stone arch (like the one in Sv.Petra Dol) with later upgraded distaff-shaped bell tower.
Renowned names like Juraj Dalmatianc, Nikola Firentinac or Brač’s
sculptor Nikola Lazanić are the makers of worthy altar reliefs often found in
these sacral buildings.
BRAČ HAS HAD ITS
DRAGONS - FOR AGES! But, do not miss a visit to true stars of Brač’s cultural heritage – like Island of Brač Museum in
Škrip, which will delight you with series of fragments of early-Christian stone
furniture, or Dragon’s Cave dating back even further in past!
This fascinating cave with a relief of a dragon, after which it was named, combines Slavic mythology and Christian iconography, and it’s a real wonder it didn’t catch the eye of authors of the most popular fantasy series Game of Thrones! Together with Dragon’s Cave make sure to include Blaca Desert to your itineraries; it is for centuries upgraded monastery in rocky desert, rich with contents that were part of Glagolitic priests’ everyday lives.
Photo: Central Dalmatia, Tourist boards of Split Dalmatia county
ATRAKTIVAN I U PREDSEZONI. Kako god – i kad god! - ga odlučite istražiti – na dva kotača, putem njegove vrijedne kulturne baštine, ili pak kroz ukusne pijate! – Brač je jednako zagonetan i neodoljiv.
Nek Vaš posjet bude aktivan, ali i ukusan – bicikliranje u idiličnom ambijentu i izlete do kulturno-povijesnih poslastica, začinite onim gurmanskim – domaćom janjetinom koja se topi u ustima, vinom koje nježno bocka nosnice i nepca – i jednom od najukusnijih torti na svijetu!
PUT DO SRCA OTOKA. Brač je posljednjih godina nevjerojatno napredovao kad je u pitanju cikloturizam, a možemo reći da se interes za avanturom na dva kotača proširio iz Sutivana, koji je oduvijek imao sportski predznak zahvaljujući festivalu Vanka regule i projektu Bike friendly Sutivan.
Brač je otok s najviše – čak 25! - uređenih biciklističkih staza, a na Vama je samo odabrati onu po svojem ukusu. Nazvane su prema otočkim svecima-zaštitnicima, vjetrovima, ili pak mediteranskom bilju, a nama se naročito sviđa Srce Brača – ponudit će Vam neoskvrnjeni Brač kakav je nekad bio, ali i čak deset srednjovjekovnih i renesansnih crkvica!
Ima i tako intrigantnih staza da nisu za one sa slabijim živcima – primjerice, staza Macića i Vivera dobila je ime prema nadnaravnim bićima iz mjesnih legendi vezanih za Postira, a odvest će Vas i do najstarijeg bračkog naselja Škrip, te Dola – doma čuvene torte hrapoćuše prepune oraha i krepkih sastojaka, izgledom nalik na brački krš!
A želite li uistinu kraljevsko iskustvo bicikliranja, odvažite se i krenite najdužom od svih staza – Sv. Juraj!
Ova 180.1 km dugačka staza vodi do svih naselja na otoku Braču, te je s pravom ponijela ime otočkog zaštitnika, a sadrži ono ponajbolje – najljepši zvonik - onaj župne crkve u Ložišćima s potpisom Ivana Rendića, crkvicu Sv. Petra s borom u krovu u Nerežišćima, čarobni Zlatni rat u Bolu koji mijenja oblik ovisno o vjetru i morskim strujama, crkvu Krista kralja u Selcima – takozvanu Bračku katedralu, ranokršćansku baziliku u Povljima, Klesarsku školu u Pučišćima i Muzej otoka Brača u Škripu!
OBJEKTI KOJE VRIJEDI RAZGLEDATI. Jeste li znali da je Brač prava riznica vrijedne kulturno-povijesne i sakralne baštine? Iako se razgledavanje pojedinih lokacija može sjajno iskombinirati sa vožnjom biciklističkim stazama, ciljano otići na Brač u razgled kulturne baštine odlična je ideja za posjet u predsezoni i posezoni.
Mi bismo krenuli od Selaca, mjesta istoimene Općine koja slovi za centar kulture Brača – prekrasne kamene ulice i trgovi odaju dugu tradiciju bavljenja kamenoklesarstvom, a najveća crkva na otoku - Bračka katedrala, krije još dragulja sakralne baštine, poput skulpture Srca Isusovog, autora Ivana Meštrovića.
A tek obližnje mjesto Povlja skriva prave kuriozitete – možda niste znali da se ondje nalaze jedni od najstarijih hrvatskih jezičnih i kulturno-povijesnih spomenika, poput povaljske listine i povaljskog praga, te ranokršćanske bazilike iz 6. stoljeća? Ovo je tek jedan od čak 116 zabilježenih bračkih vrijednih sakralnih objekata, koje odlikuju različiti stilski izričaji!
Svjesni ovog neizmjernog bogatstva našeg najvećeg otoka, čelni ljudi
županijskog turizma prije nekoliko godina izdali su i kulturno-turistički vodič
s konceptom itinerara, u kojem možete naći prave dragulje idealne za razgled –
od mahom baroknih župnih crkvi i njihovih vrijednih oltarnih pala, pa do
srednjovjekovnih crkvi karakterističnog visećeg luka (poput one Sv. Petra u
Dolu) s kasnije nadograđenim zvonikom na preslicu. Zvučna imena poput Jurja
Dalmatinca, Nikole Firentinca ili pak bračkog kipara Nikole Lazanića, stoje iza
vrijednih oltarnih reljefa koje ove građevine nerijetko kriju.
BRAČ ZMAJEVE IMA - ODAVNO! No, nipošto nemojte propustiti razgled pravih zvijezda bračke kulturne baštine – poput Muzeja otoka Brača u Škripu, koji će Vas oduševiti nizom ulomaka kamenog namještaja iz razdoblja ranog kršćanstva, ili pak Zmajeve špilje, koja seže u još ranija razdoblja! Ova fascinantna špilja s reljefom zmaja po kojem je i dobila ime, spaja slavensku mitologiju i kršćansku ikonografiju, a pravo je čudo da nije zapela za oko tvorcima najpopularnijih fantasy serijala, poput Game of Thrones!
Pored Zmajeve špilje, neka i pustinja Blaca - stoljećima dozidavan samostan u stjenovitoj pustoši, prebogat sadržajima koji su bili dio svakodnevnice vrijednih svećenika glagoljaša i monaha, bude obavezna stavka u Vašem putnom itineraru.
Više: www.dalmatia.hr
Foto: www.dalmatia.hr
Explore Central Dalmatia along the Game of Thrones paths
IF IN AN AFTERNOON WALK THROUGH STUNNING SPLIT’S CITY CORE you find groups of tourists gazing at Papalićeva street and Diocletian Cellars as if they are looking for something, there’s a great chance you bumped into ardent fans of the most watched series of all times – Game of Thrones!
LOOK FOR ATTRACTIVE LOCATIONS – IT’S WORTH THE EFFORT! These mega popular TV series have put our Dalmatia on a map of attractive film locations of the world; although it has always been attractive for sharp artistic eyes (just remember Winnetou and a mastermind enchanted by Zadar – Hitchcock!).
And while emblematic Dubrovnik Walls and baroque stairway, which act as King’s Landing in fantasy world of Game of Thrones are easily recognizable, just like cellars of Diocletian Palace – the center of Queen Daenerys’ power with dragons and a throne; stone alley in Split where slave mutiny occurred, Klis – conquered town of Meereen and locations on the area of Kašte Gomilica and Žrnovnica are somewhat more difficult to recognize as filming sets.
Nevertheless, they’re worth searching for, while recently opened Game of Thrones Museum in the centre of Split, with over 300 realistic exhibits on 100 m2 will make every true fan tremble with excitement!
DO NOT MISS A THING. To stop you from aimless wandering about, Tourist Board of Split-Dalmatia County has prepared an attractive map of shooting locations of Game of Thrones.
Leading man of County’s tourism, Joško Stella, proudly points out that the region is advertised on numerous tourist fairs as an attractive Game of Thrones destination and that the arrival of great number of tourists was motivated exactly by this series. .
“In the last two years, Tourist Board of Split-Dalmatia County has presented itself as an exceptional location for enjoying in filming sets – first of all of Game of Thrones, but also other series and films that were filmed on its area, like Mamma Mia – says director Stella, pleased with the non-declining interest for visits to significant locations, regardless of the end of the last season.
If you do not want to explore by yourselves, choose attractive theme
tours offered by local agencies, which will make sure you don’t miss any
important detail!
Tours include visits
to Diocletian’s Cellars, Klis fort, Kaštel Gomilica (which became city on the
sea Braavos in the series) and idyllic mills of Žrnovnica that perfectly
blended in the scene of Missandei’s bathing in green oasis.
Each tour, depending on the price and duration, includes at least two attractive locations, while we especially like the one that includes - all four of them – with a truly royal treatment! Apart from covering Diocletian’s Palace, Žrnovnica, Kaštel Gomilica and Klis, it ends in the tastiest way ever – with traditional Dalmatian dish under the baking lid in real Game of Thrones ambience!
VISIT A MUSEUM THAT TURNS FAN’S HEADS! But, to get a great insight into the characters (in natural size!) and attractive props and clothes – you don’t have to go too far!
Emblematic Split’s Bosanska Street, at the very heart of Split, together with souvenir shops, small charming jewelry shops and typical Mediterranean ambience, since May also has fantastic Game of Thrones Museum, which has completely attracted the attention of fans!
This is not surprising since at the very entrance you will be welcomed by one of Daenerys’ dragons, while the entire space smells like cedar, jasmine and lavender; with dark painted walls that perfectly evoke a bit of a gloomy atmosphere of the series!
But, not to reveal just everything, set out to this fan ‘gold mine’ in 9 Bosanska Street, and don’t forget to take a few wacky photos and collect piles of likes on social media!
More: www.dalmatia.hr
Photo: www.dalmatia.hr , Game of Thrones promo photos
Experience Hvar – the sunniest island with the most UNESCO heritage in the world!
EXPERIENCE OUR SUNNIEST ISLAND THE WAY UNESCO
SEES IT!
THE SUNNIEST ISLAND WITH THE OLDEST THEATRE IN
EUROPE, as if it's used to be spoken of in superlatives. But, it suits it well,
as it has abundance of contents and rich history and culture. Also, it is the
island with the biggest amount of UNESCO protected heritage in the entire
world!
Our Hvar has proudly established itself on a list that includes total of 936 monuments in 153 countries, of which there are 725 cultural monuments, 183 nature monuments and 28 monuments on both kind .
Some of Hvar’s symbols made it to the list, so make them an inevitable point of your itinerary – experience our sunniest island as UNESCO sees it!
EXPLORE IMPRESSIVE LANDSCAPE THAT RESISTS THE RAVAGES OF TIME. Starigrad field, which was 7th location in Croatia to be included in UNESCO list, in 2008, together with old city core Of Stari Grad has the best-preserved cadastral division on the Mediterranean. Namely, it is basic architecture that stayed more or less untouched for no less than - 24 centuries
It is
characterised by rectangular fields framed with drywalls, where in ancient
times even wheat used to be grown! Enjoy the view of olive groves on low
slopes, fragrant round bushes of lavender, green branchy rosemary bushes, and
of course, sweet and healthy grapes, which give the best red wines in Dalmatia!
This impressive landscape is best to be explored within one of theme tours – we
like the cycling ones with attractive tastings included.
TREAT
YOURSELVES WITH A TRULY UNIQUE SOVENIER, a fruit of dedicated and long labour
of Hvar’s Benedictine nuns – agave lace!
The process of making this lace is truly very demanding – from a fresh agave leaf threads are being taken and processed in a specific way until ready for use. Since there is no pattern to be followed, each lace is completely unique, a result of imagination and creativity of the lace-maker.
It is so appreciated that it often serves as a gift in state visits (for example, it was given to Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis). Usually it is kept framed like an art piece, as it actually is! Agave lace mustn’t be wet, ironed or washed, but if kept carefully it can last for a very long time – there are even 100 years old specimens – buy, or at least see specimens of this gentle, magic handicraft!
ENJOY IN MEDITERRANEAN DIET…AND KLAPA PERFORMANCES. This will especially gladden gastronomads – is there a better way to ‘round up’ healthy and tasty Mediterraean dinne than enjoying in harmonious sounds of klapa (a cappela group) singing? Idyllic Hvar’s restaurants are aware of this beautiful synergy, so not rarely will your attractive fish menu, together with olive oil and aromatic herbs, be spiced up with performances of local klapa groups!
Skills, knowledge and customs tied to healthy and tasty Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes values of hospitality, intercultural dialogue and creativity, made it a part of UNESCO list of intangible world heritage in 2013; while klapa multipart singing, recognizable for its characteristic harmony, melody and internal musical structure, was included on the very same list a year earlier. To the joy of all gourmets, these two items that nurture body and soul blend perfectly - reach out for a dose of Hvar’s hedonism with UNESCO mark!
JOIN PROCESSION “ZA KRIŽEN” (FOLLOWING THE CROSS) – TRUE EXPRESSION OF HVAR’S AUTHENTICITY. The extent to which Hvar is a specific island can be experienced in pre-Easter time, and if you ask us, it is Hvar that is one of the most interesting locations for spending the biggest Christian holiday.
Apart from great Easter food (from sirnice and all sorts of Easter cakes decorated with colourful eggs in local homes, to cooked ham and eggs Benedict in luxurious offer of the restaurants), great motivation for a visit is procession “Za križen”, which has been held constantly for 5 centuries, and as such was included on UNESCO list of intangible heritage in 2009.
Being a part of the procession is a unique spiritual experience that will please the hearts of religious tourism enthusiasts, but also of all believers who want to celebrate the biggest Christian holiday in a very specific way. The procession starts at the same time in six different places (Jelsa, Pitve, Vrisnik, Svirče, Vrbanj and Vrboska), with a mass of believers, cross-holder who sometimes has to wait to get that honour for even 20 years and chosen singers that perform the most important part of the procession – passion text from 15th century – Our Lady’s Weep.
More: www.dalmatia.hr
Photo: www.dalmatia.hr
Dubrovnik Tourism & The End Of "Thrones"
The hit book series and HBO adaptation Game Of Thrones has changed the nature of tourism in Croatia. Because the series is wildly popular around the world, and many of its most significant locations are filmed in Croatia, the country has seen a measurable uptick in visitors throughout the show’s run on HBO.
This is something you’ve undoubtedly heard about by now with particular regard to the capital city of Dubrovnik (which is the basis for the fictional capital of King’s Landing). However, it’s spread around the country as well; Hot Spots previously profiled a Game Of Thrones tour in Split, for instance.
It’s still Dubrovnik that’s experienced a legitimate tourism phenomenon though. Long recognized as a gorgeous Mediterranean city teeming with history, and a nice alternative to better-known destinations in Italy and Greece, it’s now one of the hottest places in the world to visit. Some simply want a glimpse of the closest thing to a real King’s Landing; some want to do specific tours and sightseeing related to the show; and some, in all likelihood, simply want to appreciate it for what it is, even if it came to their attention through Game Of Thrones.
It’s all quite exciting, though it certainly has its downsides as well. Dubrovnik has become susceptible to annoying crowds, and could be said to have lost a touch of its innocence or authenticity along the way. The Thrones-driven throngs of tourists have landed the city on lists of places being ruined by tourism, and it’s not a stretch to understand why, even if the word “ruined” may be somewhat harsh. Now, however, the city faces an interesting crossroads. Game Of Thrones will wrap up this spring with its finale season, bringing an almost decade-long cultural phenomenon to an end, and potentially changing things for this wonderful Croatian city.
In the immediate future there probably won’t be much of a change. It’s not as if the finale of Thrones will simply sever the public’s interest in it. In fact, one could even imagine tourism to spike immediately following the finale, both because it will coincide with the beginning of the summer season and because this is going to be one of the biggest fictional events in recent history, and will cause lasting, lingering excitement.
On top of the carryover effect, it’s also worth noting that Game Of Thrones is likely to endure in several ways:
- HBO has already ordered a spinoff of the series, delving into the vast fantasy world and/or history created by author George R.R. Martin. Reports have been somewhat all over the place as to what precise topics the spinoff will concern, as well as whether it will be a one-off or one of many projects. It is fairly safe to assume that Thrones will live on through a second show though, and this could conceivably extend Dubrovnik’s relevance to fans - particularly if King’s Landing is part of the future project(s).
- Game Of Thrones will also likely enjoy sustained popularity through gaming. To date, the show has been surprisingly weak on this front. Telltale had a decent but short-lived series revolving around the show, and a few disappointing mobile games have come out as well. Additionally, some of the online casino networks known for their inventive and alluring bonus structures as well as their vast collections of games have hosted a Thrones-based slot machine, which has actually been consistently entertaining. The slot game may be the most likely to endure, but the end of the show could also bring brand new games, which could conceivably keep people excited about the series for years more to come.
- There may also be books still to come, though this is increasingly in doubt. Martin had originally planned two more large, jam-packed novels to complete his written series, and may still adhere to this plan. He’s a notoriously meticulous writer who’s been very slow about penning these final works, but if he does - and if they’re released over the course of several more years - it will keep people interested, keep people engaged in re-watching the HBO series, and potentially keep Dubrovnik crowded.
These three factors - spinoffs, games, and books - will all, together, keep Game Of Thrones relevant long after the spring of 2019. They may also mean that things remain unchanged in Dubrovnik. At the same time though, interest in the fantasy may not always translate to such massive interest in tourism.
It could simply be that as the story endures and extends in various forms, King’s Landing is emphasized less, and thus the Dubrovnik connection starts to lessen. It may be that other filming locations move to the forefront via the planned spinoff, or spinoffs. And it may simply be that interest naturally ebbs after a while, as Thrones remains popular but not as popular as it’s been.
In time, the tourism boom will likely subside one way or another. It may even be that when all is said and done, and the crowds dissipate some, the show will simply become yet another fascinating aspect of the city’s history.
Photo: Ivan Vuković
Split Riviera – luxury of Mediterranean beauty in one place!
Natural beauty and historical heritage are just one part of the gorgeous repertoire along Split Riviera! Whether you choose to get acquainted with its cuisine, beaches or cultural and historical treasures, you are on the right track to have a fabulous experience as a tourist! Judging by the growing interest in this region, on the world tourism stage, it seems that many share our opinion, so, in order to get inspired to have a vacation perfectly in sync with your wishes, keep on reading!
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IF WE MENTIONED A SEASIDE LANDSCAPE very much alike to the one in the Portuguese Algarve region, but, from the period before it has become overcrowded with tourists? If this sentence has put a smile on your face, start your journey from the counties of Seget and Okrug, where you will find that Mediterranean charm in its most authentic form.
Friendly hosts, who mainly make their living from agriculture,
fishing, shipbuilding and tourism, will accommodate you in polished-up luxury
homes, designer apartments and in
modernly equipped campsites, located just a few steps away from the beach,
which are ideal if you travel with your family!
For a chunk of cultural monuments that are on the must-see list, visit one of UNESCO's pearl, the nearby-located Trogir, and enjoy discovering Master Radovan's Portal, the Kamerlengo Tower, Ćipiko Palace and other cultural and historical gems that seem to have slipped out of an ancient a story, which is here to present a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles! To grab a break and enjoy in true sea fun, visit Slatine - an idyllic fishermen's village, and then, make sure, the next place on your travel bucket list are - Kaštela!
Get to know these 7 small towns in a somewhat unconventional way – by riding a chariot powered by two beautiful black horses! As this fabulous tour unites Kaštela's gastronomy, wine and oil tastings, and the most attractive of the local historical and cultural heritage (such as the story of the true Romeo and Juliet from Kaštela, which, unlike the famous Shakesperean heroes, were not fictional), it will give you the perfect intro to the best of the best in these 7 charming places.
After a refreshing snack made of homemade prosciutto and cheese, olive oil, washed down with a glass of Kaštelan crljenak (authentic sort of red wine), treat yourself to a new dose of cultural treasures - go for a visit to ancient Salona, or relax all your senses in Our Lady's Island in Solin - with its glorious greenery and idyllic vistas, along with the murmuring of Jadro River, it will make you think of a scene straight out of paradise!
The taste of paradise, ready to surprise your palate, awaits you in Solin's restaurants - try the trout prepared in numerous ways, or grilled eels, and then, as you approach the heart of this region - the glorious "Flower of the Mediterranean“ - Split, your menu will be enriched by traditional dishes - pašticada, fish & meat grilled specialties (if you prefer lamb, as well as The Game of Thrones series - do not skip the neighboring Klis!), all rounded up with traditional sweet bites such as rožata, Split cake, fritule and kroštule, oh believe us – you are in for a real spectacle.
These delicious calories need to be burned off, and the choices are many - from a detailed sightseeing of the old city center and the fascinating Diocletian's Palace, which will surely be the source of some of your most popular Instagram posts, to the famous game of picigin at Bačvice Beach, or to a few laps around the most beloved green oasis in the city – Marjan Hill, or even an all-night partying at the famous Ultra Festival!
Of course, do not forget to drink your cup of macchiato on the sun-kissed Promenade, or walk along famous Marmont's Street - it's all about the activities which have become sort of a non-written rule and the city's real brand, so if you want to feel like a true citizen of Split - it's inevitable to do all of the above!
If adrenaline activities are your favorite treat, then your next stop has to be Omiš - go on a hiking trip to its Fortica Citadel, on the top of Dinara of Omiš, and enjoy the beautiful view of the whole town, the islands of Brač, Hvar and Šolta, as well as the canyon of Cetina River, which you can get to know from another perspective – those of a bird!
The zip line, in other words the possibility of flying on a steel rope over the glorious Cetina landscape, has become one of the most popular adrenaline activities. If you would rather test your skills on the river rapids, try the best rafting around! However, if you want to be completely relaxed and also a bit lazy, look no further - this region unites the best of both worlds, so near these adrenaline activities sites, there are also attractive locations where you can spend your time on the beach! The coastal belt that connects Stobreč, Podstrana, Duće, Stanići, Mimice and Pisak, is the ideal getaway for guests looking for an alluring package combining tons of sun and crystal clear sea. Your only task? Reserve your spot on time!
Photo: www.dalmatia.hr , archive of Tourist boards of Split Dalmatia County
Visit Sinj and hit the centre – new glow of Alka's city
Megaproject Sinj u sridu (Sinj in centre) is designed as an integrated project of renewal and embellishing unique cultural heritage of Sinj. Project, worth 68 million and 114 thousand kunas, is focused on reconstruction, renewal and revitalization of immovable cultural heritage and valorisation of intangible cultural heritage.
Within this project streets were reconstructed, and entire urban city core was equipped. Also, Stari Grad fort was arranged as well as Kamičak fort and a bell tower. Building Palacina was also renewed, which is of exceptional cultural-historical value. Here a completely new, arranged Museum of Cetina region will be located, together with multifunctional hall for presentation of traditional crafts and products. This is especially important for numerous family rural households, small crafts and cooperatives dealing with production of autochthonous products and souvenirs. From now on they will be able to present and sell their products throughout the year.
Significant amount of finances go to theme Sinj Alka – mainly for purchase of equipment and development of new multimedia interpretation forms and centre dedicated especially to this knights’ competition, upgrading of souvenir production and other contents.
They also plan to build Interpretation-educational centre on Sinj hippodrome, on almost 2500m2. Centre is planned as a space where visitors will be able to participate in Alka's horse-riding school, and feel real presence and vicinity of noble horses from Alka's stables at first-hand, and even feel original Alka costumes.
On this project, together with Sinj Town as project holder, another five project partners are involved that are relevant for social and economic development of the region and management of cultural heritage.
Sinj is proud of its efforts in sustainable tourism, constantly aiming to ensure pleasurable everyday life for the locals and attraction and freshness to its guests. This was recognized by EDEN network (European destinations of excellence), which awarded this town with first prize in category ''Exceptional cultural-tourist offer in EDEN destinations''.
Numerous significant cultural-art events contributed to winning this award, together with numerous places in town that are used as a stage for various manifestations. The presence of the spirit of past times floating over Sinj is just fascinating – priceless cultural heritage is not just a look in the past, but a firm base for shiny future.
Sinj Alka – organized in honour of victory over Ottomans in 1715, is a sort of time machine that takes you back to some ancient times where one can hear rattling sables and firelocks, neighing of decorated horses, while proud knights of hawk eye and firm fist throw their spears in the centre, the smallest circle of the metal target; but, there is more to see in Sinj.
The church and a monastery of Our Miracuouls Lady of Sinj is one of the biggest Croatian Marian sanctuaries and it is a host of the very top of Croatian klapa (acapella) singing, on a traditional concert Klape To Our Lady of Sinj. Spiritual acapella compositions of exceptional quality in open space of meditative monastery garden must be heard live.
For their vows, pilgrims will hike the Road of Our Lady of Sinj, along ancient roads and picturesque bridges on the Cetina River, traditional hiking and horse-riding paths near the remains of defence walls, abandoned route Rera, former Sinj rail. Stations of the Cross on Grad fort are unique works of sculpture art and are exquisitely incorporated in ambience of a walkway, surrounded by tranquillity of the greenery.
In Cetina Region Museum and Archaeological collection of Franciscan monastery many priceless historical objects from local finds are on display (ancient settlement Aequum, Tilurium), which testify of early civilizations on this area. Multimedia Sinj Alka Museum (Europa Nostra award winner – award for cultural heritage of the EU) in a modern and interesting way presents specificities of knights’ game, and in gallery Sikirica, apart from permanent exhibition of works of Stipe Sikirica, many exhibitions, literary nights and various cultural events are held.
Kamičak, small fort of star-shaped layout, former watchtower whose clock is the main time-orientation point for all the locals even today, is an ideal stage for cultural evets and concerts like Music Nights. Sounds of classical, traditional and jazz music under the starry sky will most certainly delight you and make you come back the next year as well.
Show The Siege of Sinj 1715 is a historical drama spectacle that takes place on authentic locations and shows events from famous battle in 1715. Do not miss to experience how 700 Sinj’s defenders resisted the attack of 70 000 Ottoman soldiers led by Mehmed-paša-Čelić!
Football is definitely home in Croatia, and you will be reminded of this with football game between Delmats and Romans, designed on the basis of historical fact tied to headstone of Gaj Liberije – ‘kid with a ball’, as they call him in Sinj. The game is actually a comic theatre show, with fictional rules, in spirit of ancient times. In main roles there are emperor Diocletian and empress Priska with their consultants, surrounded by guards and soldiers in their loge. On the field there are musicians, a referee, ten Delamats and ten Roman players, all dressed up in original costumes. Unusual and fun, certainly worth visiting, even if you don’t know what offside is.
S.A.R.S. (Sinj amateur rock gathering) is a festival of alternative culture organized by S.K.U.P. association (Sinj Cultural Urban Movement) for many years. Festival is initiated to promote amateur rock bands from all over the country, but with time, famous both Croatian and international musicians came to perform. With the occurrence of more famous music bands, audience grew as well, so they come not only from towns and places around Sinj, but from more distant places and even from abroad. With musical part, association organizes performances, literary nights, film projections and various activities and workshops. Mark the end of July in your calendar – S.A.R.S. will definitely have one performer according to your taste.
Gljevstock is made for your inner hippy. Conceived as informal music gathering of Sinj’s music band members and their friends, festival soon outgrew its boundaries and continues to thrive year after year. The main goals of this festival are socialising and freedom, bends always play in presentational way, not as a competition. In the spirit of festival, camping and entrance are free, and to organizers, positive reviews are the most important. Pack your tent and check if they’re right.
Sinj Village festival is an excellent opportunity for getting familiar with local products and crafts. Small and medium rural households from rural Sinj area and its surrounding are offered with a precious opportunity to present their traditional high quality homemade products that can’t easily reach consumers: homemade cheese, honey and other bee products, homemade meat delicatessen, wine, brandy, liqueurs, oils, eco-products and so on. Various types of traditional souvenirs are also on display, like hand embroidery, every day and decorative items and natural jewellery – all are a result of utmost care and responsibility towards heritage that is jealously kept, transferred from one generation to another and kept from oblivion. Programme is enriched with performances of cultural-art societies, bands and Sinj’s majorettes. You will leave Sinj with a full belly and full of impressions.
Measureless richness of tradition that is necessary to preserve for
future generations was recognized by Ministry of Culture of Croatia. It protected
rera (colourful two-part singing) as
a cultural heritage, together with annual carnival
customs of villages under Kamešnica led by Grandfathers from Kamešnica, while silent dance, unique folk dance with no musical background has been
listed on UNESCO intangible heritage list.
It’s busy in Sinj for Advent
too, when the cold is chased away with good entertainment and holiday music,
with plenty of good meals and quality drops. As soon as Chrisman and New Year’s
holidays are gone, town keys are handed over to carnival participants, led by
traditional Grandfathers from Kamešnica.
Sinj also organizes Easter breakfast,
pleasant socialising in merry atmosphere of celebrating the greatest Catholic
holiday.
It is hard to single out just one thing that makes the town under Kamičak a magical place – maybe the embrace of mountains, cold river, ash-grey cliffs or magical endless grasslands and meadows of incredibly rich flora and fauna, or even richer cultural heritage? This kind of dedication is nowhere else to be found, such a high level of gastronomic and wine offer, with far-known Sinj’s hospitality – all this is merged into a true idyllic surrounding which will definitely revitalise your body and spirit. Sinj is not just a pass-through destination – thanks to unified and targeted efforts, it has become a very popular destination and you will make no mistake if you make a reservation right now!
| The project “Sinj u sridu” was co-financed by the European Union from the European Regional Development Fund and the Operational Program Competitiveness and Cohesion. |
Photo: Ante Gašpar, Nikola Belančić, Željko Zrnčić and Monika Vrgoč
More: www.cetinska-krajina.hr
Content of promotional article is sole responsibility of JU RERA for coordination and development of Split-Dalmatia County and under no circumstances does it reflect the attitude of the EU and/or the governing body.
Find out more: www.strukturnifondovi.hr
