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DALMATIA – A STORYTELLING DESTINATION This is a story about Split, citizens of Split and their battles throughout history

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For centuries, the beautiful Mediterranean city of Split, located between the Marjan Hill and the Adriatic Sea, has attracted visitors from all over the world. Here they discover monuments from times long-gone, touch the thumb of Grgur Ninski and explore cellars of Diocletian’s Palace, marveling at this magnificent architectural monument.

They also enjoy Marjan, “the lungs of the city,” creating beautiful moments for their treasure boxes of memories. However, the story of this glorious city can be told in a completely different way: through the history of the Jewish community in Split with explorers, artists and mayors that will soon find their place in new specialized storytelling tours.

The Story of Robert Adam Discovering His Own Style

Diocletian’s Palace in Split has always attracted international travelers, writers, historians, architects, and archaeologists curious about one of the best-preserved antique monuments in the world. Many of them tried to describe it but only the rare British architect of Scottish origin managed to do so, Robert Adam, who was mesmerized by Roman architecture and began to explore antique architectural structures. As he was intrigued by Emperor Diocletian and “the Emperor’s monumental villa” in Split, he decided to visit this monumental city and learn more about the private architecture of ancient Romans. His first glimpse of the town was from the sea: “The moment you sail in between the two capes extending into the sea that form a large bay and a friendly harbor, you will see the remains of the walls facing the sea and a long arcade of the Emperor’s Palace, a modern fortress, a lazaretto and towers located within the walls as well as one of the ancient temples. The urban structures are perfectly harmonized with the surrounding hills creating beautiful scenery. Upon his return to London, Adam spent 6 years preparing etchings for 61 etching plates. He published the book Ruins of the Palace of Emperor Diocletian at Spalato in Dalmatia in 1764.

Adam’s visit to Split and the Diocletian’s Palace influenced his work and in part inspired his own style of interior decoration, named “Adam’s style.” He was deeply influenced by ancient civilizations. His experience of the Split’s architectural masterpiece, especially the southern façade of the Diocletian’s Palace, is visible on the Register House in Edinburgh and in the orangery of the Bowood House in Wiltshire, known as the Diocletian Wing. Simultaneously, the Adelphi Buildings on the Thames in London represent his interpretation of the whole Diocletian Palace.

Robert Adam was so astonished by Peristyle, a half capital from Diocletian’s Palace that he used it to decorate the façade of a building located on St James’ Square in London. His architectural style was so strongly influenced by Split’s ancient monuments that he included the sketch of the entire capital in his book The Works in Architecture of Robert and James Adam.



Jewish Heritage in Split

Jews in Split is the name of a storytelling tour that will take you all the way back to ancient times. Jews have been living in Split ever since the times of Emperor Diocletian, and stonecutters’ symbols on the walls of the Palace testify to their presence in the Palace. A Jewish cemetery and decorated menorahs, Jewish candleholders from the 3rd century tell us a story about their lives in Salona (today’s Solin).

Although persecution has been the major part of the history of Jewish people, they were welcomed in Split thanks to their excellent multilingual and trade skills. Daniel Rodrigues, a Jewish community member in Split anda tradesman,left the most significant trace.In honor of his contribution to the evolution of the city of Split, a street was named after him – Rodrigina Street that was once inhabited by Jews exclusively. Next to it, in Židovski prolaz (Jewish passage), one of the oldest still active synagogues in Europe and the only one in Split found its home. It was built in the 16th century. Well-preserved, it tells a story of the influence of the community up to the 18th century.

Today, the Jewish community of Split has approximately a hundred members that occasionally organize exhibitions and lectures. Work hours are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on work days.

The Mayors of Split

A storytelling tour named The Mayors of Split tells a story of visionaries that have shaped Split as it is today. The guided tour starts on Prokurative with a tale of Antonio Bajamonti, a medical doctor and an adored mayor of Split for almost twenty years. He turned a neglected and poor varošica (a small town) into a modern Mediterranean city. He renovated the Roman aqueduct, introduced gas mantles, and built the Bajamonti Theatre.

The tour continues on Splitska Riva, where the scent of sulfur can be felt due to the sewage collectors constructed thanks to the mayor Grabić.

While strolling down the Riva, the scent of sulfur reminds us of “sulfur spas,” and “furešti” (a slang expression for foreigners) who should learn about the mayor Grabić, thanks to whom today’s Riva smells only of sulfur.

Today’s King Zvonimir Street was once known as Dr. Ivo Tartaglie Street, named after the favorite mayor of citizens of Split, a lawyer, politician, and painter. Thanks to his efforts, electricity supply was introduced in Split as well as it was connected to the mainland through Lički railway constructed in 1925. You will get a chance to find out more about this street that you will reach from the Riva.

This storytelling tour ends near Koteks, the first shopping center in ONE communist country. There, the participants will get a chance to find out more about the mayors of Split during the most significant city’s industrial-construction expansion and about the famous Mediterranean Games.


World War Two in Split 

This is a story about the citizens of Split and their struggles during the Second World War. A war means destruction, pain, and suffering, and Split was no exception during the Second World War. The terrific bombardment of Split destroyed almost 20% of homes. However, innocent victims (citizens of the town) are those who suffered the most extensive injustice.

Tyranny was a form of rule of the new government that imposed new restrictions on living. Every new day brought further instability, sometimes in the form of price inflation, sometimes in the form of scarcity (of all essential goods) and sometimes in the form of the bloodcurdling howling of air raid sirens or random street checks or cardings and arrests.

Participants in this storytelling tour will learn about the atmosphere in Split during those dark times with an emphasis on the local population. In addition, they will hear about the postwar period, influences of which are still present but overshadowed by the war.

A Story about Split’s Mentality “The Craziest Town in the World”

We always wonder what makes this city, in which everything is acceptable, so special. The answer is that this is the craziest city in the world, with no further explanations needed.

States are changing, governments come and go, but the citizens of Split remain the same – unpredictable, passionate, loud, wild… Their mentality has become a brand. Splićani (citizens of Split) take pride in it as something more resilient than systems and ideologies. The small and the big town, as described by Uvodić, Smoje, or Kudrjavcev, each of them from their own perspective and their own interests provide the best insight into the “craziness of Split.” The characteristics are mainly negative – defiance, mockery, gossiping, hedonism… However, in this town, some reversed rules are in power. So everything that can be experienced as something negative at first, with time, becomes something adorable, and holding grudges does not exist.

No other city can take pride in eccentric characters born in Split, so-called ridicules, that transformed Split into u perfect stage for Fellini movies. Only in Split are people “fjakani” (meaning tired and melancholic). Small talks and gossip are the top priority of daily coffees. Yes, when drinking coffees in Split’s cafes, we all talk about “grandece” (the grandeur of people). We pretend that we possess more than we really do; vanity is our virtue, and spitefulness would make us climb Mount Everest.

We sincerely believe that you will join at least one of our special storytelling tours and discover Split from a different perspective – by learning about people that breathed and lived in this city and have contributed immensely to its culture and tradition.

DALMATIA – STORYTELLING DESTINATION

Revival of storytelling in museums and institutions to preserve cultural heritage is a unique project in Croatia and Europe. In Dalmatia, as a storytelling destination, 14 characters of the area’s rich heritage have been revived. In addition to this project, 23 themed tours have been created. This project, intended for tourists and the local population, is focused on providing authentic experiences of cultural heritage through storytelling. These commercial guided tours will be available through the County’s storytelling platform that offers storytelling tours led by knowledgeable and certified guides wearing costumes. The project aims to preserve and publicize Dalmatian cultural heritage and create attractive 365 tourist offers in Splitsko–Dalmatinska County.

Knowledgeable and certified guides are:

The Story of Robert Adam Discovering His Own Style in Split: Maja Bilić

Jewish Heritage in Split: Lea Altarac

The Mayors of Split: Maja Benzon

The World War Two in Split: Ina Nikolić

A Story about Split’s Mentality “The Craziest Town in the World”: Luisa Quien

Photo credits: Dalmatia – Storytelling Destination; photo archive of TV series Malo misto; archives of certified storytelling guides; Wikipedia

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CELEBRATING LOVE The project „Dalmatia – Storytelling Destination“ tells a tale of the most beautiful love stories from Splitsko-Dalmatinska County

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Welcome to the project Dalmatia – Storytelling Destination… This is a story of the untold legends, full of memories, laughter, bitter tears, revenge… If only these walls could talk…

As Valentine’s Day is approaching, we are getting in the mood to celebrate love. They saythat only the heart can see “love.” Still, the project Dalmatia – Storytelling Destination has given “love” a shape visible to everyone. This creatively designed project with storytelling elements tells us tales of the most beautiful love stories in Splitsko-Dalmatinska County (SDŽ).

If the walls of homes and palaces in Splitsko-Dalmatinska County could talk, they would reveal many happy love stories, but also those with sad or even dramatic endings. Many legends tell tales about them. Some of them are brought to you as a gift for Valentine’s Day by storytellers of Dalmatian cultural heritage, licensed tourist guides from SDŽ involved in the Dalmatia – Storytelling Destination project.

DALMATIA – STORYTELLING DESTINATION

Revival of storytelling in museums and institutions dedicated to preserving cultural heritage is a unique project in Croatia and Europe. In Dalmatia, as a storytelling destination, 14 characters of the area’s rich heritage have been revived. In addition to this project, 23 themed tours have been created. This project, intended for tourists and the local population, is focused on providing authentic experiences of cultural heritage through storytelling. These commercial guided tours will be available through the County’s storytelling platform that offers storytelling tours led by knowledgeable and certified guides wearing costumes. The project aims to preserve and publicize Dalmatian cultural heritage and create attractive 365 tourist offers in Splitsko–Dalmatinska County.

Here are 7 most touching legends and stories:

1. Castles and legends from Kaštela

In the 17th-century Kaštel Lukšić, a girl named Dobrila lived with her parents in the Vitturi Castle. And nearby, in the Rušinić Castle, a boy named Miljenko lived with his father. Their fathers, sworn enemies, opposed their love and brought a tragic ending to it. The storyteller starts telling the story near Dobrila’s castle and leads to the Church of the Assumption of Mary, where Romeo and Juliet from Kaštel were married. The tour then continues to the Rušinić Castle and St John the Baptist Church, where they were buried. The story reveals a tragic truth about Miljenko’s death, who was killed by Dobrila’s father. The tragic death of her loved one led to Dobrila losing sanity, wishing only to be buried next to her husband.  

Storytelling guide: Nataša Birčić

2. A STORY OF DOBRILA VITTURI

The City Museum in Kaštela hosts this 45-minute storytelling experience that tells a tale of Dobrila and Miljenko, Romeo and Juliet from Kaštela. The guides will tell a story about happiness and tragedy with the help of a revived character of Dobrila. In addition to the love story, the visitors will have a chance to learn about the history of Kaštela.

Storytelling guides: Sandra Hrabar and Jelena Marijanović

3. Roko and Cicibela

…It was like in a story. Roko, a poor fisherman and the son of a rope maker. Cicibela, a daughter of a porter, even poorer… Ahh, who hasn’t heard of a story of a couple that fell in love in Split’s Matejušica. Ivan Baranović and Boško Papić will tell a story about these poor lovers from varoš (a part of the city) with just a little bit of bread, even less fish, and a lot of love. In addition, they will show the sights of the charming Vela Varoš. The couple married in 1903 lived on a Dujkin Dvor  gaeta (a traditional wooden boat) named  by Roko. The legend says that they died together, embracing each other during the winter of 1936/1937.

Storytelling guides: Ivan Baranović i Boško Papić

Love stories of ancient Split 

 4. Diocletian and Prisca

It is not easy to single out a love story from the ancient texts about love dedicated to Split. A more popular one is a story about Diocletian. According to the legend, the Emperor met his darling Prisca in the fields of Spanish broom. Maybe in Salonika, on the slopes of Kozjak, or on the mountain of Mosor. He was faithful to her and their daughter Galeria Valeria. When he abdicated in 305, he retired and withdrew to the Palace with Prisca. There, they lived peacefully until 310, growing cabbage. This is the year when his son-in-law and heir became sick. Mother Prisca rushed off to Salonika to help her daughter. In 311, Galerius died. As Galeria Valeria was a daughter of the great emperor, it was expected that the man that married her would become an emperor. But Galeria Valeria did not want to remarry, especially not for political reasons. This is why she and her mother were expelled. They found shelter in today’s Syria. But her adopted son, Candidianus, remained in Salonika (probably Galerius’ son from his first marriage). Pretender to the throne, Licinius, sent her a message telling her that if she did not return to Salonika, he would kill Candidianus. As she loved him like her own son, she decided to go back. Unfortunately, it was too late as Licinius beheaded Candidianus. Apparently, someone from the crowd spotted Galeria Valeria and Prisca and informed Licinius about their arrival. The two of them were arrested and executed.

Unable to save them, Diocletian died of sadness. According to the legend, he jumped into the sea below his Palace.

5. The love story of Adela and Mario

This story takes us back to the 16th-century Klis that was under the Turks at the time. A young and wealthy tradesman lived there. His name was Adel. A wealthy family from Split – Vornić – was buying his goods. Their youngest daughter Maria fell madly in love with Adel, who asked her to be his wife. He even promised that he would convert to persuade his family to bless their marriage. For the Vornić family, it was unacceptable for a Muslim man to join their family. So they sent Mara to a convent, where she became sick and died. This story of Adel and Mara was written by Luka Botić. Josip Hatze composed an opera to a libretto written by Branko Radic.

6. An unusual love triangle

Legends about Split also talk about mayhem, an unusual love triangle with a beautiful daughter of a sea captain in the middle. Marko Marulić, a famous Croatian poet, lawyer, judge, and Renaissance humanist, and his friend and relative Papalić fell in love with her. The young maiden could not decide between the two. So she would throw down the ladder during the night. One of them would guard underneath the window while the other would climb the ladders to the room. Each night they would take turns. And then, one night, there was a bloody confrontation. It was a break of dawn, but there was no sign of Papalić. Marulić suddenly spotted a bag at the bottom of the ladders with his friend’s head. The legend says that he took it home with him. He buried his friend and then withdrew to the island of Šolta, where he lived like a monk for the rest of his life. The young maiden was walled up in the house.

7. Forbidden love of Leon and Izolda

A 15th-century story of forbidden love from Split is about Leon, a son of the Venetian duke Quirin, and Izolda Alberti, the only daughter of Madi Alberti, a nobleman from Split. Wanting to help them, Leon’s friend, sister Katarina, lent her robe to him so that he can disguise and secretly meet his loving Izolda during a mass. When the old Albert found that out, he sent his daughter to the Benedictine convent of St Arnir. But the lovers continued seeing each other, planning to get married. However, to escape, she needed to go through the attic full of coffins hiding bodies of stillborn babies and those that died after birth. Izolda was so terrified that she stayed in the convent and died there. Leon has died in the battle of Zadar. 

Storytelling guide: Sunčana Cokarić

Photo credits: Tourist Board of Kaštela, Roko and Cicibela (1978), Storytelling Dalmatia

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DALMATIA – STORYTELLING DESTINATION Expounding tours to revive the chequered past of Croatian aristocracy in Dalmatia

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Expounding tours of Kaštela, Solin, and Trogir 

Kaštela, Solin, and Trogir are small towns in the vicinity of Split. Expounding tours within the Dalmatia Storytelling Project revive the chequered past of Dalmatia, its turbulent history, adventures of the nobility, and a beautiful love story. Kaštela was ravaged by the Turks, to which many remains of buildings bear witness, but is nowadays known for its first-class olive oil and wine. Solin has a different history: It is proud of its royal love story and boasting its beautiful basilicas. “Little Venice” proudly tells the story of a noble family who left their love in Trogir.

Expounding tour Roots of Dalmatia

Kaštela, a place near Split, is known for its turbulent history and its extra virgin olive oil that is genuine liquid gold, and its top wines, the most famous of which is Crljenak Kaštelanski or Zinfandel. Expounding tour Roots of Dalmatia familiarises with the way of life in Kaštela between the 5th and the 21st century, long past hallmarked by struggles, survival, and outstanding courage of local inhabitants. This region was exposed to attacks by Turkish and other invaders, as evidenced by the remains of towers, forts, and citadels.

The history of Kaštela was marked by two Croatian noble families Ćipiko and Stafileo, who built fortifications, thus defending their place in numerous defensive actions and the Venetian-Turkish wars. They were mainly landowners, merchants, and sailors who invested their funds into chapels, works of defense, and farm buildings. Peasants and farmers of Kaštela earned their livelihood by growing fruits, vegetables, and cereals and processing olives and grapes. Many former customs have vanished into oblivion, yet wine and olive oil are still part of the tradition. Taking a walk, visitors will learn about the historical development, which has made a dent in today’s life of Kaštela and Dalmatia and enjoy the extra virgin olive oil.

Royal stories from Solin

With the help of the governor of Zadar, ban Pribin, the young king Mihajlo Krešimir II of the Trpimirović lineage won the civil war against his brother Miroslav and was in 949 anointed king. The following year, he cemented his alliance with the governor by providing a grant to the Zadar monastery of St Chrysogonus. There he was hit by Cupid’s arrow and fell in love at first sight with a young Jelena from an aristocratic family of Madijevci. 

They got married and ruled from the then royal city of Solin. They had a son Stjepan Držislav, who was to inherit his father’s crown. However, King Mihajlo died in a battle while Stjepan Držislav was still a minor, so mother Jelena took over the reign as regent in her son’s name. During her short reign, two churches were built on the river island in Solin – the coronation basilica of St. Mary and the burial basilica of St. Stephen. King Mihajlo was buried in the St. Stephen Church, where Jelena also found eternal rest next to him in the church vestibule – the so-called Mausoleum of Croatian Kings. 

On the queen’s sarcophagus, there is an epitaph testifying the genealogy of Croatian kings of the early Middle Ages: “In this grave lies the famous Jelena, wife of king Mihajlo, mother of king Stjepan. She brought peace to the kingdom…”  

Expounding walk through the palace of the Garagnin-Fanfogna family

One of the names of the 3000 years old Trogir is “Little Venice,” as it bears a remarkable resemblance to the beautiful Italian city of art. Being the most influential noble family of Trogir in the 18th and 19th century, the Garagnin–Fanfogna family originated in Venice and arrived in Trogir in the 16th century, when in the city center, a beautiful palace was built for them. In the 18th and 19th century the Garagnin family played an important role in maritime affairs, trade, and the overall economic and cultural life in Trogir and Split. Catherine (Katarina) Fanfogna-Garagnin was the last descendant of this influential noble family and the first woman in this region to keep her maiden name Garagnin and add it to her husband’s name.  An expounding walk takes visitors through the late Baroque palace, a venue of the Trogir noble elite, which was built in the 18th century by the Garagnini to the plans of Ignacije Macanović.

Catherine’s father, Ivan Luka Garagnin, a forward-thinking erudite, was the first conservator in Dalmatia. Visitors can learn about the culture of enjoying food in the family dining room, so-called tinel. At the same time, the most impressive part of the palace is the family library, which is with more than 5,000 books, the largest in this region. It was founded by Ivan Luka Garagnin – Bishop of Rab and Archbishop of Split. It was also visited by the Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph. In addition to the valuable holding of books, it also contains all issues of the Royal Dalmatian (Kraljveski Dalmatin), which was the first newspaper in the Croatian language. After Catherine’s marriage to Antun Fanfogna, the palace became Garagnin-Fanfogna. Unfortunately, the palace was devastated after the Second World War, but the family library has been preserved. Today, the palace houses the Trogir City Museum, which is indeed worth a visit

DALMATIA – STORYTELLING DESTINATION 

Revival of storytelling in museums and institutions to preserving cultural heritage is a unique project in Croatia and Europe. In Dalmatia, as a storytelling destination, 14 characters of the area’s rich heritage have been revived. Revival of heritage characters in museums and heritage institutions is a unique project in Croatia and Europe, reviving 14 heritage characters. In addition to this project, 23 themed tours have been created. This project, intended for tourists and the local population, is focused on providing authentic experiences of cultural heritage through storytelling. These commercial guided tours will be available through the County’s storytelling platform that offers storytelling tours led by knowledgeable and certified guides wearing costumes. The project aims to preserve and publicize Dalmatian cultural heritage and create attractive 365 tourist offers in Splitsko–Dalmatinska County.

Storytellers:

Roots of Dalmatia – Ana Ivica Jakić
Royal stories from Solin – Vedrana Memiš
Expounding walk through the palace of the Garagnin-Fanfogna family – Doris Čavka


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VIA BRATTIA – Embark an unforgettable experience of the touristic – hiking trail of the island of Brač!

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VIA BRATTIA is a 140 kms long circular tourist trail that connects numerous setlements on the island of Brač and 12 most attractive island’s cultural and historic locations. 

Besides these 12 locations, VIA BRATTIA will take you through the centers of many pitoresque Brač settlements – Supetar, Mirca, Sutivan, Bobovišća na moru, Ložišća, Bobovišća, Milna, Murvica, Bol, Sumartin, Povlja, Pučišća, Postira, Škrip and to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches and bays – Zlatni rat in Bol, Farska, Murvica, Lovrečina, Smrka, etc. 

Since it is a cicrular trail, marked in both directions, you can hop on it in each of the places mentioned above, simply following the blue and white marks. 

We recommend you to walk it in parts, spending the nights in the towns through which the trail goes. There you can refill your water and food supplies. 

Please have in mind that camping outside of designated camping areas and open fire are both strictly forbidden in Croatia.  In case of any emergency please call 112.

https://supetar.hr/via-brattia/

STAMPS  

There is a stamp placed at visible spot on every of 12 locations. Put a stamp on an indicated spot on the back page of this map. Have a liquid for a stamp with you. The spot for a stamp is marked with the number of the location on the map.  

Once you visit all the locations and place all the stamps on the indicated spots, you will create the photo of St. George, protector of our island killing the dragon which stands as Brač island’s coat of arms. We recommend you to frame it and have it as a souvenir from this journey and a reminder of this, hopefully, extraordinary experince. 

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. Hermitage Blaca is an outstanding natural and cultural phenomenon, a wonderful oasis of peace and memories of days gone by. Instructions for visitors: To get to the museum one has to walk on a steep 2.5- km-long goat path; Sportswear and sport footwear are strongly recommended. Since there are currently no food or beverages available to purchase at the museum, it is recommended that visitors bring their own water or refreshing drink.


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. The cave contains the petrified history of a persecuted nation which had reconciled its ancient pagan faith with a Christian concept of the world. It is therefore in this cave that ancient Slavic myths of werewolves, fairies, incubi and witches with Bosnian kings and scenes from the apocalypse.

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. In the monastery church there is a coffered ceiling with a picture of Apotheosis of St. Dominic, the work of the local artist Tripo Kokolje from the 17th century, while on the main altar there is an altarpiece of the “Mother of God with the saints” from the workshop of Jacob Tintoretto.

th the saints” from the workshop of Jacob Tintoretto.

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. These dwelings show us how people used to live in these areas and are real monuments of Brač rural architecture.


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.

More:

https://supetar.hr/via-brattia/

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DALMATIA – STORYTELLING DESTINATION Split-Dalmatia County begins unique project of breathing life back into its rich heritage

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There are many authentic stories to be told in beautiful Split-Dalmatia County, a treasure that is ready for every new visitor to this area.

Guided by this unique idea, Split-Dalmatia County and the museums operating within this area have begun with an attractive project which involves reviving the characters of the area’s rich heritage. Through educated and certified guides wearing costumes, as well as educators, the idea brings forth an interesting way of presentation and a certain novelty in the tourist offer.

The project was initiated by the County Steering Committee for Tourism and Maritime Affairs, which realised an interesting tourist platform with the idea of ​​Dalmatia as a storytelling destination. Its goal is to revive the characters from the county linked to its heritage, and create a creative 365 tourist offer within the museum and in other such significant sites.

The implementation of this new tourist acquisition was preceded by training for numerous museum staff and tourist guides. During that very training, they learned how to present some of these so-called ‘’heritage characters’’, localities or events through storytelling announcements, providing guests with new knowledge, and also allowing them to get to know the county in some other kind of way.

Storytelling in the museums of Dalmatia, as a storytelling destination, is a unique project in the Republic of Croatia, but also at the European Union (EU) level. It started with education sessions held from the 9th to the 13th of November, 2020. in the premises of the Croatian Chamber of Commerce in Split, and it was then realised through the joint cooperation of Split-Dalmatia County and the Let’s Interpret Croatia Association.

Cilj joj je kroz edukacije prenijeti znanja i vještine prezentacije i interpretacije baštine, korištenjem  storytelling metode sukladno Interpret Europe certifikatu.

The aforementioned association is committed to encouraging excellence and efficiency in the interpretation of Croatian natural and cultural heritage, as well as raising awareness of its importance for the development of the country’s various local communities.

Its primary goal is to transfer knowledge and skills of the very presentation and interpretation of heritage through education, using the storytelling method in accordance with the Interpret Europe certificate.

The training session was led by experienced lecturers Mark Wallis from the United Kingdom and Valya Stergioti from Greece, the most important members of ‘’staff’’ when it comes to costumed interpretation of heritage in all of Europe.

Their task was to acquaint already experienced guides and museum staff with this brand new way of using Split-Dalmatia’s highly unique resources. In this way, every visitor is offered a unique souvenir from this area, new knowledge, as well as a sense of really getting to know the destination in which they stayed.

‘’The intention was to introduce Split-Dalmatia’s tourist staff to the presentation of heritage in a costumed performance, that is, through the story of a person, detail, history… Thus, we provide an unforgettable experience for every visitor. In Britain, it is an extremely popular platform and is a favourite among our guests. On my first visit to Split, I couldn’t help but notice how the whole city resembles a fantastic set for a TV or movie plot. The city is beautiful, unique, special, and boasts an enormous amount of content, perfect backdrops for a costumed heritage presentation,’’ said Mark Wallis, the director of Past Pleasures, Ltd. the oldest company involved in costumed interpretation and the staging of historical events in Britain.

The training was attended by fourteen heritage institutions from Split-Dalmatia County, as well as professional museum staff, museum associates and licensed tourist guides.

With this new approach to heritage presentation, they will become costumed first-person performers for: the Kastela City Museum, the Poljica Museum, the Trogir City Museum, the Trilj Region Museum, the Split City Museum, the Ivan Mestrovic Museums, the Split Archaeological Museum, the Croatian Maritime Museum Split, the Natural History Museum and the Zoological Garden, the Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments, JU Starogradsko polje, the Klis Fortress, Ritam igre and the Sinj Tourist Board.

The revival of ‘’heritage characters’’ in the area’s museums, as well as that same revival of heritage institutions at the county level is a unique project that enables experiences through unforgettable, authentic, emotional stories which are first and foremost – Croatian stories.

This project aims to preserve and present Dalmatian cultural heritage, but also to contribute to the year-round tourism offer of Split-Dalmatia County.

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Hot Spots destinations

Ana Rucner – Somewhere between the the sea and the stars

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World-famous cellist Ana Rucner was more active than she is usually is this past summer. In addition to a series of successful concerts that she held along the entire Adriatic coast, she was engaged as an ambassador of the Foundation “Island of Brač – somewhere between the sea and the stars”, and the turning point was a concert held in Bol.Svjetski poznata violončelistica Ana Rucner, ovog je ljeta bila aktivnija nego inače. Pored niza uspješnih koncerata koje je održala duž čitave jadranske obale, angažirala se kao ambasador Zaklade „Otok Brač – negdje između mora i zvijezda“, a prekretnica je bio koncert u Bolu.

”On the day of the concert, the director of the Tourist Board of the Municipality of Bol, Markito Marinkovic, organised a promotional photo shoot at several typical Bol locations and introduced me to a fantastic photographer. It soon turned out that Robert Barilla was not only a photographer, but also volunteered for years as the director of the Foundation for Research and Preservation of the Heritage of the Island of Brač and is also the author of the monograph of the same name. I was among the first to see a trial copy of this “Brač Bible” and it is clear to me why its release is awaited with the same anticipation by ordinary people as by those in academic circles,’’ said Ana.

Pure love for the island of Brač is hidden among the 1,360 pages of this book, which is equipped with over 3,000 photographs, maps, documents and illustrations, imported in luxury leather binding, and is scheduled to be published early next year.

The whole Rucner family has houses on the island of Brač and they spend their summers in Povlja every year, so Ana has been connected to Brač since her back in the days of her very earliest childhood, and during her studies she held a concert tour throughout the island.

This great musician who erases all borders with her music, is one of the best representatives of Croatia in the world.

Her latest album is called “Croatian heritage”, and her own love for Croatian heritage was probably crucial for accepting the title and role of ‘’ambassador’’.

“On my next arrival to Brač, when we filmed a double for the monograph in the mysterious Dragon’s Cave, this acquaintance quickly grew into a friendship, and from mutual gatherings and great synergy, the role of an ‘’ambassador’’ was born. Somehow it happened by itself. There are few people who care about their heritage with so much love, energy and knowledge and I’m proud to be a part of this story. That’s why I listened to my heart and gave the Foundation my white cello decorated with Swarovski crystals. I’m happy to have been given the opportunity to give a part of myself to an island that has become a part of me. Let it stay on Brač as a sign of support for these fantastic people and as a memory of a wonderful collaboration. ”

During the month of September, a report on the Brač stone was filmed for the German television Arte TV, and Ana Rucner used every free moment to play and take photos in attractive island locations.

”I enjoyed every second of wandering around Brač with my cello. Playing in the Blaca Hermitage, the quarries, the Basilica of St. Lovre, under the starry sky of Lovrećina beach, as well as going in the sea with a horse, were special experiences. Although these were performances in front of only a few friends, I had the feeling that I was playing in crowded concert halls. I wore jewellery and fashion creations made by Brač designer Ida Stipčić Jakšić, a dress made of stone and dresses made of sea pebbles and jeans.

I’d like to give a special thank you to Mr. Markito Marinković for the household, young designer Anja Bolčević for the creation for the Dragon’s Cave, our guide Zoran Kojdić for the historical stories, Kristijan Mutarello for the chair with the motifs of the Dragon’s Cave and Bruno Miličko, a several-time Croatian champion in the super extreme class, who, with his Pinzgauer took us over some of the most demanding terrain. The first photo was taken next to the sculpture of an Angel with one wing by the academic sculptor Lovro Jakšić, and in response to the question “where is the other wing”, the last photo was taken in a quarry where I have a stone wing. This completes my story from Brač this year.

The experience of the island from a completely different angle and the view from the perspective of a man who knows it very well, have completely changed my previous image of this, the largest Dalmatian island. I can’t wait for my first free moment, when I will have the opportunity to get off the ferry in Supetar. Now I know that I am not coming to Brač, but entering a magical interspace that is somewhere between the sea and the stars,’’ Ana told us with enthusiasm.

Photo: Robert Barilla

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Gastro

Beach bar and restaurant Mina – An explosion of tastes and pleasure in the Jelsa way!

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As soon as we cast our eyes on the name of this sophisticated gastro point, we noticed that Mina was bursting full of charm. If, like us, you are a gastronomist who sticks firmly to their guns when it comes to their palate, this is exactly the feeling that will overwhelm you when visiting this gorgeous in beautiful Jelsa!

The visual identity of Mina itself just screams relaxation and enjoyment – the spacious interior enriched with natural materials such as stone and wood, and fabrics in soft beige shades, is carefully designed to blend this attractive lounge bar as unobtrusively as possible with an environment that is, in one word – beautiful!

And how else would it even be possible to begin to describe the turquoise blue bay surrounded by fragrant pine forests with a view of the Brač channel and the Makarska Riviera?

The restaurant is located just above the beach which bears the very same name, which is otherwise the most popular beach in all of Jelsa, located a mere few hundred metres away from the centre. There is also an Aqua Park located nearby.

An explosion of taste is the most appropriate expression for what awaits you there, pinned on an alluring gastro map. Whether you want grilled fresh fish spiced with homemade olive oil and Mediterranean aromatic herbs, delicious meat specialties, or some more exotic gastronomic sensations like spring rolls or wok vegetables, here you simply have – everything you might want, so much so that it’s difficult to imagine that Mina might not have something covered.

However, if we had to choose, we would recommend grilled gilthead sea bream, Adriatic octopus salad, fresh Adriatic shrimp, mussels and saltwater clams when it comes to the seafood delicacies, and delicious lamb for the avid meat lovers!

Even a cursory glance at the typically struct Tripadvisor revealed to us that guests, among other things, enjoyed the best pizzas they’d ever eaten, so if you want to go on a gastronomic journey to Italy, try out this favourite dish done in Jelsa’s interpretation of it.

For picky and curious palates, we also recommend the divine spaghetti aglio e olio, which enjoys an almost cult status in its homeland, and the friendly staff who know that food and wine go straight to the soul, will help you pair each of these wonderful dishes with a rich wine list and adequate drinks.

Don’t forget the cocktails! A delicious rhapsody of dishes is accompanied by an equally attractive drink menu. Is there anything better than sunbathing on comfortable loungers while relaxing with some of the masterfully prepared cocktails on offer?

We believe that you will want to immortalise this moment which is of true ‘’Bond-style’’ aesthetics with an beautiful photo posted on social media, and for a complete experience, we recommend ordering a Martini done in the way the world’s most famous secret agent likes it best – shaken, not stirred, op.a. ).

Whether or not you decide to taste other intoxicating delicacies – from gin with citrus, floral and fruity aromas, to Mai Tai and Long Island Ice Tea for the slightly braver among you, or maybe a Cosmopolitan – the favouurite drink of the famous columnist from the series “Sex and the City”, Carrie Bradshaw, you can be sure of one thing – the explosion of taste and pleasure hidden behind the name Mina, will shake up everything you knew about food and drink so far – and it will do so in the best possible way!

More:


RESTAURANT & LOUNGE BAR MINA BEACH JELSA
Jelsa 892A, 21465 Jelsa
www.restaurant-mina.com

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Hot Spots summer destination! Island Pag – feel the Magic of the Moon Island

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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.

Life on Mars 2019 - Visit Novalja

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.

Novalja Archives - Croatian Hot Spots

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

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Recent events

Croatia Hot Spots Summer 2020. edition is OUT! Fill your summer with joy!

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The best thing would be to sing the Dalmatian song ‘’no one can do anything to us’’, alas, in our Dalmatian paradise, the coronavirus crisis struck. The new normal posed a challenge, and we, aware of our potential, reciprocated with imagination and creativity, as a recipe for attracting tourists to our area.

And here are our excellent numbers, the announced and expected 30 percent of traffic when compared to last year’s tourist figures was achieved. And in some destinations, that figure was well exceeded. And all this is thanks to the advice of the epidemiological profession, people’s adherence to the protection measures, and the hard work of everyone. This is how we managed to make ourselves stand out in Europe as the only country with significant tourist traffic.

And now comes the race to Croatia’s gems, to our most beautiful turquoise bays, to the attractions of the Dalmatian hinterland, to adrenaline tours, to the sights of Bol.

Croatia Hot Spots magazine – new edition is out!

Read online at Issue.com

Magic island Pag is summer Hot Spot destination!

We’ll take you to Pag, which has established itself as an island whose destinations are chosen by the world’s most luxurious fashion magazines. We’ll reveal to you the secret of their tourist success and the reasons why they are achieving fantastic results this year.

We’ll then head to Central Dalmatia to show you the pearls you absolutely must visit this summer.

Then we’ll quickly transfer you to Jelsa on the island of Hvar, which has achieved some fascinating tourist figures. We will show you their model of traditional accommodation, sustainable tourism, in which a guest becomes a member of the family.

We will take you ashore, and head inland to the hinterland of Split, to the heart of the Dalmatian hinterland and show you a fresh attraction in the shape of an Indian village. Green valley retreat zone.

We will also recommend one of the most beautiful excursions in Dalmatia, the one which takes you to the incredible Blue Lagoon on Drvenik Veliki, where Max Nautika will be your guide.

On top of all of that, we’ll also reveal to you the excellent initiative of the Student Centre in Split, which has created a platform for attractive and never more affordable accommodation.

We will show you where this summer, despite the coronavirus crisis, you can celebrate, but also teach you how nothing can go without the golden drops of Dalmatia, the best Athena olive oil from Stari Grad.

.. embark on yet another adventure with us.

Read online Croatia Hot Spits magazina at Issue.com

Photo:archive TBs

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Gastro

Athena extra virgin olive oil – An enchanting tasty adventure on the island of Hvar!

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Athena is the highest quality olive of organic origin, one that will emphasise and round off the taste of absolutely everything it touches, and with it, even a piece of bread and cheese will become an intoxicating and enchanting tasty adventure.

This isn’t just any old, ordinary Dalmatian oil. History, tradition and centuries of extensive knowledge of island farmers are woven into OPG Plenković’s product. This liquid yellow gold comes from the island of Hvar bearing the strong name of Athena. This premium extra virgin olive oil was made from ripe olives from the Stari Grad plain.

. Its name alone alludes to precisely that, to the goddess Athena, one of the main figures of Greek mythology who gave the olive to the people. And the Greeks ennobled it, they made oil from it, which they kept in ceramic vessels – amphorae.

And so it should be done today. The exceptional Athena olive oil comes in ceramic bottles that preserve all of its nutritional properties. Athena is the food and cultural history of the island of Hvar, it is the essence of the coming together of both tradition and modern technology.

The packaging is customised and very pleasing to the eye, and it also comes in a limited series.

This year, they have about 500 white bottles at the Plenković family farm, with an additional limited series in black. Athena Premium carries a medium to intensely pronounced fruitiness in the scent of olive fruit and green grass, apple and tomato, with a dominant intense almond flavour, rounded off with notes of both artichoke and rocket.


Athena Slavač is a mild-tasting oil that will satisfy a wide range of consumers who prefer milder-strength olive oils. It boasts a delicate aroma of ripe olive fruit, a soft taste of ripe fruit and pronounced floral notes.


Due to the fact that a large part of the olive groves belonging to this family farm are located in the Stari Grad plain which is under the protection of UNESCO, Athena draws the strength of the microlocation in which it was born and matured.

In tasting Athena, one actually tastes the history of the island, absorbing the fruit of the knowledge that has been passed down from generation to generation for as many as 2400 years.

Stari Grad i Starogradsko polje | Stari Grad

Even in this very modern age, people still speak about the concept of terroir, which is what connects the taste and characteristics of this oil to the truly special peculiarities of its microlocation.

Athena is, as judged by the best experts in the field of oenology, table oil in the very best sense, one that will emphasise and round off the taste of quite literally everything it touches. And it will touch everything, from a simple piece of bread and cheese, to salted sardines and brujet (brodet).

Rhapsody will be made in every dish, it will stimulate the palate, cause a wave of gastronomic pleasure and enhance the importance of the most recognised, most appreciated and healthiest diet, the Mediterranean diet. Our diet.

The owners of the Plenković family farm are a couple called Magdalena and Ljupce Plenković, who, last year, decided to brand their olive oil and purchase more fields in addition to their inherited olive groves. Their plan is to plant more olives and gradually expand their production capacities.

“Our desire was to combine the indigenous product with the history and culture of the plain, the benefits of the Mediterranean diet and pack it as a luxury souvenir.”

Web shop: www.atenahvar.com


Points of sale:

“Za pod zub”- Srinjo kola 11, 21460 Stari Grad

“Aroma Dalmatia”-Dioklecijanova 5, 21000 Split

“Terrami”-Zadarska 3, 21000 Split

Photo: Phastudio

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Lifestyle

Interview DOMAGOJ BEBIĆ “Creativity is the key to success”

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THE FUTURE OF OUR TOURISM AS SEEN BY AN EXPERT – COMPETENCE AND KNOWLEDGE AS GUIDE MARKS IN DIFFICULT TIMES

In these seriously difficult and uncertain times, when coronavirus has redefined our reality in all its aspects, competence and knowledge have never been more significant. In these times of uncertainty, we have turned to people whose expertise and knowledge instil confidence and a sense of security.

We met with an expert of such kind, associate professor Domagoj Bebić, the holder of the chair on New Media and the head of the Department for Strategic Communication on Faculty of Political Science in Zagreb, and the coordinator and representative of all IPSA research committees – the greatest international association of political scientists. We talked about the interrelation of coronavirus and tourism, one of the most complex social-economical phenomena that has been significantly affected by the pandemic.

1. Lately, we have been witnesses of the dramatic effect of the pandemic on global travel – in which way has coronavirus particularly altered its dynamics?

I would like to point out that, at the moment, the most important thing for everyone is to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. On the other hand, some people are pessimistic. If we take a look at the numbers, it all does seem a bit negative – air traffic is practically non-existent, there’re a sense of fear among the world’s travellers, and I think we are close to a point when we have to redefine the term zero point and start with some new processes, and this will happen when we gain some more insight into the nature of this virus.

The global COVID-19 pandemic has definitely postponed the beginning of the tourist season, we have witnessed many reservation cancellations just several days before the tourist season as we know it should have started. I believe that uncertainty is one of the things that has affected this delay the most. The whole situation and its uncertainty as far as epidemiological measures are concerned have brought caution in terms of the booking of accommodation, as well as a decrease in the number of guests.

2. In your opinion, is it likely that this situation will have long-term consequences and permanently alter the travel market? Can you single out some of the specific segments where long-term changes are to be expected?

I believe that this should only be a kind of setback, but once the danger disappears, things will slowly fall back into their place and within a reasonable amount of time, the numbers will reach those of pre-pandemic times. I also believe that all of us will somehow change the way we act. Most likely with time we’re going to acquire some new habits, but we’ll certainly need some time to adjust and get used to the “new normal”. It is to be expected that after this storm the tourist market, the situation will start to stabilise and a new balance will be reached. I don’t think that this is the time for pessimism, but for an opportunity to learn a lesson and try to adapt to these new circumstances.

3. What about mass tourism? Is it, in the light of new events, a finished story?

Out there in the world, including here in Croatia as well, some new models of tourism have started to be encouraged such as sustainable tourism, green tourism, the growing and enjoying of organic food… The coronavirus situation only brought them up to surface and I think that it’s the right time for tourist workers to start to invest in them. As soon as the pandemic is over, sustainable tourism and the green economy will become the new normal. This new situation has prevented mass tourism from rising. As I previously pointed out, I believe we will, meaning all of us together, acquire some new habits and adapt to new trends. This situation will most certainly bring about some new trends and habits, but I believe that the tourist sector will soon recognise and adjust to the needs of guests. The Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board has proved to be very successful in adapting to new situations on many occasions, which is the most important characteristic for successfully doing business in tourism.

4. What are your predictions about the nature of “new” tourists, or perhaps it’s better to say, the tourist of the future? 

They are completely networked, the primary way of communication being social networks and new media. I believe this situation will encourage guests to be more open to different tourist offers, to explore new possibilities. The new type of tourist will be more open to somewhat different, specific offers and vacation models.

5. How do you envision Croatia on the world tourist map? Is there a segment in which our country as a destination can look for an opportunity or do we have some special advantage?

Croatia is one of the leaders in exclusive and expensive tourism. In this segment we are very creative, developed and expensive – which I don’t think is bad. In my opinion, this sector attracts global emissive markets, although there is a dose of public criticism on the exclusive part of tourism, but this is the branch in which we can offer the most.

I’ve already singled out the Tourist Board of Split-Dalmatia County as a leader when it comes to adapting to new situations, new trends and novel needs of tourists. We should also keep in mind that the advantage of Croatia is its natural resources that enable guests to try numerous possibilities in just a few minutes’ ride. From secluded beaches, programmes in city centres to being able to enjoy themselves in isolated locations full of unexplored natural beauty.

6. What would you recommend to the leading people in Croatian tourism – what should be the base of their marketing strategy?

Creativity. This is the key to success. We are definitely not that creative, and we have every right and freedom to be. The audience’s span of attention has decreased, their hectic lifestyle has changed their habits, so it’s important to emphasise the creativity of the content to attract the attention of the target audience. Also, all discussions on global markets point out the importance of providing tourists with information about security, which has to be specially emphasised during this period.

Domagoj Bebić is author of the book -Cybertourist, new media in tourism.
Cybertourism stands for the change in tourist communication patterns and tourist promotion. Due to the change that was introduced with the rise and popularisation of new media today we
deal with completely new communication rules and practices. The development and popularisation of social media has redefined core media practices.

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Be active

Turn on summer! Use the opportunity, a holiday for the youth in Split has never been more attractive or favourable!

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Come and see for yourself just how Dalmatia and Split have so much more to offer than sun and sea. Climb up to mountain peaks, surf the waves, explore the underwater world and experience the magic created by nature. Discover the beauty of living in good company and enjoying some unforgettable adventures…

When we look at the events that have happened to us throughout 2020 so far, it might occur to us to simply turn a few pages of this year’s book because we don’t like its content. The epidemic, the unemployment rate, not being able to go to school and college, quarantine, earthquakes, etc. These are all topics worthy of apocalyptic novels, they’re not so much the coveted light summer reading for relaxation.

The Student Centre in Split has made an effort to bring a ray of sunshine to these apocalyptic pages of the book and instruct us not to give up so easily when it comes to 2020, but to simply “turn the page of life’s book” into summer.

Okreninaljeto.com is an application from the Student Centre in Split for all those who want to capture some beautiful memories in 2020. The purpose of the page is described in the slogan “Breathe freedom, feel happiness, experience adventure”, and these three things are what young people are longing for the most in 2020. For young people from Zagreb, Zagorje, Slavonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and other neighboring countries, summer in Split has never been closer and more accessible.

Accommodation is provided in two student hostels located on the Campus and on Spinut. These modernly decorated hostels are located close to the beaches. In order to have a carefree holiday, the Student Center has also made sure to provide daily room service.

Each room has a private bathroom, and parking is provided. The hostel has sports fields, a gym and a sports hall. Guests can also use the lounge area with game consoles and laundry facilities.

Inside the building, there is a coffee bar where you can find refreshment during the summer evenings. So, everything you need for an ideal summer vacation is right here.

It only takes a few clicks on the page to make the right decision. In addition, in the application itself, you can find the answers to some logical questions that arise:

-How does one spend time creatively in Split?

-What natural and cultural sights are there to visit in Split and its surroundings?

  • Where is the best place to have fun?

The prices are more than favourable, so for seven days in a double room, you’ll pay 90 euros (680 hrk), and if you decide to go half board, the price will be 125 euros (942 hrk) for seven days.

It’s time to turn towards a new page in life. 

It’s never too late to make great memories. Not even in 2020.

Okreninaljeto.com

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Destination of the month

THE HOLIDAY OF YOUR DREAMS! New promotional video showcasing the beauty of Central Dalmatia launched!

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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

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Gastro

Golden olive oil makers from Hvar pick up the most medals at the prestigious NYIOOC competition in New York!

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Owing to its truly stunning natural beauty and rich history, the island of Hvar is often visited by tourists and recognised as one of the top destinations in which to spend a summer holiday.

Rajski vrt Radojković | Dobrodošli u komadić Raja

However, a real little gastronomic scene takes place on the island of Hvar, and the most commonly used ingredient on this gorgeous island is certainly olive oil.

Practically since time began, groves full of beautiful dark purple olives have been being planted and formed in this area and until now, there has never been more of them, producing renowned olive oils which continuously earn the highest recognition possible. There are as many as 220,000 olive trees on the island of Hvar, which speaks volumes about the island of Hvar having grown into a real little olive-growing island region.

NEW YORK OLIVE OIL COMPETITION 2018: Istarska ulja opet briljirala ...

The most common olive variety is oblica, with a representation of 85 percent, followed by lastovka, levatinka and the somewhat newer varieties lećino and pandolino. The presence of more than 900 small and large olive oil producers says enough about the tradition of nurturing olives and its products. It is therefore not surprising that every dish on the island of Hvar is sprinkled with this liquid gold.

THE NEW YORK OLIVE OIL COMPETITION 2018: Istrian olive oils shone with all of their brilliance once again, and at this year’s competition in New York – NYIOOC, Croatian olive oil producers picked up more gold and silver medals than olive oil producers from anywhere else in the world did.

In terms of the number of medals in this year’s competition, the winners are, as expected, Italy and Spain. Of the 60 samples sent from Croatia, 34 of them won a gold or silver award, and the percentage of Croatian winners in this competition stands at an impressive 57 percent, making it the highest in the world.

The NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition is otherwise the largest and most prestigious world competition for olive oil. The annual list of award winners is considered an authoritative guide to the best extra virgin olive oils of the year.

Of the 34 winners from Croatia, 10 percent of them come from the island of Hvar, namely: Božić uje, Eva Marija uje and Radojković uje.

1. ULJARA BOŽIĆ – SVIRČE D.O.O.

Božić olive oil is imbued with the tradition, diligence, love and expertise of their family. High standards and passion for food inspire them to produce olive oil which boasts an excellent taste, made from only the finest of ingredients. At this year’s competition, the award went to Oblica olive oil, which is characterised by its distinct aroma and taste. This oil has a slightly spicy and bitter taste, with a pronounced and intense sweetness to it.

2. OPG ČURIN EVA MARIJA

The winning oil from Eva Marija, which is of the levatinka variety, has a medium intensity and fertility, with a feeling of green grass, apple and green almond. This oil also boasts traces of artichoke and chicory, with notes of black pepper and aromatic herbs such as rosemary, sage, and even mint. The bitterness of this particular olive oil is well defined and its sharpness is pronounced, and all of that is very balanced. OPG Eva Marija Čurin is located in the eastern part of the island of Hvar, close to Gdinj.

Rajski vrt Radojković | Proizvodi

3. THE GARDEN OF EDEN (RAJSKI VRT) – RADOJKOVIĆ

The Garden of Eden was created out of love, and love is what this producer wants to permeate into every single little drop of olive oil that comes from the estate. The production is located in Bogomolje, a small village located on the eastern part of the island of Hvar, away from the crowds of summer tourists. The award-winning Levatinka olive oil was obtained exclusively from olives of the Levantinka variety. This variety provides a truly superior oil of moderate spiciness, also boasting the smell of fresh grass.

Last year on the island of Hvar, olive oil production was extremely fruitful, not only in the sheer amount of oil produced but also in terms of its top quality. Bravo to the Božić, OPG Eva Marija and Radojković oil producers.

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