The history of Zadar, known historically as Zara, is deeply intertwined with that of its Italian community, the Zaratini. But I never heard any old Italian songs from Zadar The Italian community’s impact in Zadar was profound, especially during the period when the city was under Italian rule. This influence is evident in the city’s architecture, culture, and even in the lingering Italian linguistic traces. However, the fate of the Italian community in Zadar changed dramatically over time. The allied bombings during World War II and subsequent communist rule in Yugoslavia led to significant har ..read more

This Christmas Eve we had a beautiful day and we spent it in Zadar. Walking by the sea, I took some images of local barkajoli boatmen. In the heart of the Adriatic, the city of Zadar in Croatia harbors a unique and enduring tradition: the Barkarijoli. This 800-year-old practice is more than just a mode of transportation; but a living testament to Zadar’s rich heritage. Tradition of Barkajoli The Barkajoli are traditional boatmen, whose history dates back to the 14th century. According to some, the tradition is as old as the city itself as people always needed to get to the “mainland.” For gene ..read more

Cave Romanae is a historic quarry near Pula in Istria. It’s known for supplying the stone used to build the Pula Arena during Roman times, under Emperor Vespasian’s rule. Located in Vinkuran, this quarry was important because of its quality white stone. Today, it’s a historical site that gives us a glimpse into Roman building techniques and their influence in Istria. It’s a popular spot for those interested in history and archaeology but also a popular spot for cool events. Cavae Romani from airEntrance to Cavae RomaniCavae RomaniLocation of Cavae Romani The quarry is situated in the area of V ..read more

In the heart of the beautiful – and Croatia’s biggest Island – Cres, perched high upon a cliff lies a very unique village. Lubenice is a place of unique charm and beauty. I was there back in 2001 and this summer I wanted to make a stop to see if it was still the same. Of course, it was packed with tourists and nowhere near calm as it was that winter over 20 years ago. But summers are like that. A Glimpse into Antiquity The history of Lubenice spans over four thousand years, marking it as one of the oldest settlements in the region. Furthermore, as you wander through its narrow lanes, you’ll e ..read more

The historian Lovorka Čoralić is well known for her investigative work on relationship between Croatians and the Venetian Republic. She has published several books and papers on Croatians in the files of the Venetian Inquisition. I am reporting here on four of them. Two cases relate to investigations against Croatian emigrants in Venice, accused of using magic. In the other two, religious figures (an Augustinian from Hvar and an Observant from Dubrovnik) are charged by the Holy Office for immoral behavior or illegal performance of church services. Venice in early 1600s The first two cases invo ..read more

Nestled in the heart of the Dalmatian archipelago, Vis Island is a true gem of the Croatian coastline. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage, Vis also boasts great local cuisine and delicacies like Viška/Komiška pogača, Cviti biscuits, Vugava wine… So, every time we go around, we look for something authentic. For places that still keep the tradition alive. At least sort of. Konoba Zoglav Situated in the quaint bay of Zaglav on Vis Island, Konoba Zoglav presents an inviting atmosphere that transports visitors to a bygone era. Zaglav’s rustic ch ..read more

Just the other day, my friend Marko Meštrov, a prominent local archaeologist asked me to join him for a round table on Stojan Janković in tiny Zelengrad in Bukovica region. I had no idea what to expect but it was quite cool to see some folks in traditional outfits and some in replicas of historic uniforms of Croatian warriors of 17th century. Uskoci Stojana JankovićaWho Was Stojan Janković Stojan Mitrović, also known as Stojan Janković, was a significant Croatian Uskok from the Mitrović family. Born in 1636 in Žegar, Obrovac, he passed away on 23rd August 1687 in Duvno. Despite being widely re ..read more

In the heart of the Adriatic Sea, lies Croatia’s Kornati Islands National Park. A marvel in its own right, the archipelago is home to over 140 islands and islets, each known for its natural beauty. Among these, a special site stands out – the Church of Gospa od Tarca, a pilgrimage spot with a profound historical significance that enchants its visitors with its simple beauty and rich heritage. The site of Gospa od Tarca Located on the largest island of the archipelago, Kornat Island, the Church of Gospa od Tarca, also known as Our Lady of Tarac, is a beautiful monument in this otherwise barren ..read more

Recently, I stumbled upon a beautiful portrait of a woman wearing a white cap on an art auction site. Intrigued to learn more about the artist, I conducted some research and discovered that he was Franz Seraph Stirnbrand and, in fact, of Croatian descent through his father. Portrait of a noble woman with white cap, 1834. Franz Seraph Stirnbrand (c.1788/94, Linz – 2 August 1882, Stuttgart) was a German portrait painter with an intriguing backstory. Of unknown parentage, he was given the name “Stirnbrand” (brow burn) when he was baptized, in recognition of a scar on his forehead due to a childho ..read more

Our culture cherishes cooking food over fire. Peka and gradele are staples of our local cuisine. Preparing (or baking?) a “peka” seems simple but it is not. You place meat or octopus, potatoes, and some vegetables in a metal or clay lid and enclose it with coals. A well-prepared peka is splendid. The lamb or veal roasted in peka is so exquisite that even renowned food connoisseurs appreciate it. It is part of our national pride and history. Peka is an ancient way of cooking that has been with us for a long time. Here is a bit on history of peka cooking in the region. Peka setup on Brač Island ..read more