Korcula Island - Island of Korcula - Otok Korcula - Insel Korcula - Islands of Croatia

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Korcula Island - Island of Korcula - Otok Korcula - Insel Korcula

Although all of the islands of Croatia are historic, none are so well conserved as Korcula Island. The most historic part of the island is the center, which is built on a peninsula and became a small town fortress during the 13th century. Highly elevated churches and houses and a wall around the city deterred many unwelcome guests during the middle ages. Of course, now everyone is welcome to view the magnificently well kept city that has been nicknamed the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages.”

One of the most awe inspiring parts of the city is the Cathedral-Square. Here you will find immeasurable treasures. The largest and most breathtaking building is St. Marco Cathedral which is the premier point on the island. Directly south, there is the Bishop’s Palace. This is where the Abbatial Treasury of St. Marco is located along with a prosperous compilation of Italian and Croatian Renaissance paintings. The collection of antique manuscripts and books and a collection of the ceremonial clothes used in the original masses can also be found in the palace. Church of St. Peter’s is the oldest church in the town it is located on the northern side of the square.

The other must see is the wooden statues of apostles which were carved by an 18th century sculptor from Venice.

The Church of Our Lady is situated on the west side of the square and dates back to the 15th century, there are many infamous tombs of historical figures can be found here, there are elaborately decorated gravestones along with a mosaic of Louis Schrikkela a Dutch artist on the altar.

In the square there is a flag column dated from 1515, on the north side of the square there are numerous palaces some of which are Arneri and Gabrielis, one of Croatia's greatest sculptors, Frano Krsinic has a gallery here.

Descending from the Cathedral Square using tower Zakrjan and turn right down the first street you will find the birth place of Marko Polo.

You will be amazed to find all this history on such a small island. Believe it or not, the Cathedral Square is only one small part of the treasures and history to be found on this amazing and fascinating island of history and culture.