This fortified medieval town on Korčula Island claims to be Marco Polo's birthplace, featuring a unique herringbone street layout designed to protect from wind. Venetian architecture, traditional Moreška sword dance performances, and excellent local wines make this a charming destination.
Korčula Old Town occupies a small peninsula on the northeastern coast of Korčula Island in southern Dalmatia, Croatia, and is one of the Adriatic's finest examples of a fortified medieval town. The town is claimed by local tradition to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, though historians debate this; the alleged Marco Polo House is open to visitors as a museum. What is indisputable is that Korčula flourished under Venetian rule from the 13th to 18th centuries, and the architecture reflects that influence throughout — Venetian Gothic and Renaissance doorways, stone coats of arms above entrances, and a well-preserved Rector's Palace face the main square. The old town's street layout is described as a herringbone or fishbone pattern, with the main spine running from the Land Gate to the seafront and lateral streets angled to channel sea breezes and minimize wind damage. The Cathedral of Saint Mark at the town's heart is a Romanesque-Gothic hybrid built largely in the 15th century; its interior holds a Tintoretto altarpiece and a Pieta attributed to a student of Michelangelo. The Moreška sword dance — a theatrical battle between two armies in ornate costumes — has been performed in Korčula for centuries and is staged at an outdoor theatre near the Land Gate throughout the summer season. The island is also known for its indigenous wines: Grk is a dry white grown only on the sandy soils near Lumbarda, while Pošip from the inland villages produces a richer, aromatic white that pairs well with local seafood. The town is reached by regular ferry or catamaran from Split and Dubrovnik.
Good to know
- Hours
- Open 24/7
- Best for
- history, culture, couples, wine lovers
Location
Korčula Old Town, 20260
42.9599, 17.1350 View on map
Highlights
- Herringbone street layout — medieval urban planning designed to manage wind and heat
- Cathedral of Saint Mark with a Tintoretto altarpiece and attributed Michelangelo-school Pieta
- Moreška sword dance performed at the outdoor theatre near Land Gate throughout summer
- Marco Polo House museum in the old town built around the explorer's claimed birthplace
- Grk and Pošip indigenous white wines from vineyards just outside the old town walls
Tips for visiting
- Watch Moreška sword dance on summer evenings
- Climb St. Mark's Cathedral tower
- Visit Marco Polo house museum
- Try local Grk and Pošip wines
When to visit
June and September offer warm weather without the peak-August crush of day-trippers from cruise ships. Thursday evenings in summer are ideal for combining the Moreška performance with a waterfront dinner.
Accessibility
Korčula Old Town's streets are narrow limestone lanes, predominantly flat along the main spine but with occasional steps on lateral streets. The Cathedral of Saint Mark has a stepped entrance. Wheelchair users can navigate the main promenade and most of the primary street, though side alleys are inaccessible in places.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Korčula Old Town take?
The old town can be explored in 2–3 hours on foot. Adding the cathedral, Marco Polo House, and a seated coffee or meal extends the stay to half a day. Day-trippers from Dubrovnik or Split typically allow a full afternoon.
When is the Moreška sword dance performed?
The Moreška is traditionally performed every Thursday evening throughout the summer season, roughly May to October. It is also staged on the feast of Saint Theodore on 29 July. Tickets can be purchased at the theatre near the Land Gate or through local agencies.
Is Korčula Old Town suitable for families with children?
The old town is compact and largely car-free, making it safe and walkable for children. The Moreška performance appeals to older children. The pebbly beaches immediately outside the walls are shallow and suitable for family swimming.