Korčula

Korčula, our second port of call in Croatia, is a historic fortified town on the small island of the same name just off the Dalmatian coast. Local tradition holds that Marco Polo was born here in 1254, though there is no support for the claim. The small old town is still encircled by thick stone walls punctuated by sturdy watch towers. Musicians perform in the sheltered arches of the former city gates. Korčula's streets are arranged in a unique herringbone pattern, which permits the free circulation of air while, at the same time, protects against strong winds. All of the narrow streets in the historic core are stepped. The notable exception is the Street of Thoughts, so named because one did not have to worry about the steps. Building outside the walls was forbidden until the 18th century. Since then, Korčula has expanded but retains the charms of a seaside resort.