Korcula Island

Just off the Dalmation Coast near Dubrovnik, the medieval walled city of Korcula hasn’t completely escaped the reaches of tourism—but Old Europe is certainly alive and well here. This traditional blue-collar shipbuilding and fishing town has deep roots in tradition. Korculans are skilled, respected seamen, and most of the island’s traditional songs are about them (and their sweethearts). Such a part of local lives is the sea that even the main ceiling of the city’s St. Mark’s Cathedral was constructed in a shape reminiscent of a boat. Religious ties are also strong here: Three brotherhoods (the oldest dating to 1301) are prominent social groups that still lead processionals through town. And these winding streets flanked with medieval stone fortresses and terracotta-roofed buildings set a picturesque backdrop for the mock sword battle dances that have been performed here since the 17th century.