Korcula

Ancient city and the port on the North-Eastern shore of the island, on the small peninsula tightly connected to the island; with 3232 inhabitants. The surrounding area is covered by pine forests. .The Greeks, who gave it the name or Korkyra Melaine for its dark and densely wooded appearance, first settled the island. The town of Korcula is a medieval well-planned little walled city built in locally quarried stone renowned worldwide for its whiteness. Among many beautiful buildings clad in Korcula white stone is Istanbul’s Agia Sophia. From 1420 to 1797 the island remained a dependency of Venice, with self-governing status. Afterwards, Austria, France and the British held the island (from 1813-15). In the old city — places of cultural importance to visit are the Cathedral of Sv. Marko facing the main square with its paintings by Tintoretto and Bassano. In the Bishop’s Treasury you will find beautiful collections of fine and sacral art; the Icon Gallery — a permanent exhibition or Cretan icons ‘acquired’ by Korculas sailors in the 17thc ; Marco Polo House — a rather modest stone house in which the great traveller is said to have been born.
East from the port there is a number of small islands. Climate is mild; mid temperature in January is 9,8'C, and 26,9'C in July.Island is known for great insolation. Main economic activities are agriculture, winegrowing, olive oil production, fruit growing, fishing, shipbuilding, stone carving, tourism and nautical tourism. The regional road connects the town with the other settlements in the island. The port has its eastern and western docks. Marina Korcula is in the bay on the eastern side of the town. The port is connected to the mainland with the ferry line (Korcula-Orebic)