| a
long tradition in seafaring, shipbuilding
and stone-masonry. It is the birthplace
of the adventurer and traveller Marco
Polo. Today Korcula is an important tourist
centre. Tourism has a years-long tradition
on the island. The first modern hotel,
Korcula, was opened in 1912, in a building
erected in 1871. Hotel guests have been
enjoying the sunset at the hotel terrace
for decades, which is a unique experience
in the early summer. The most important
cultural event is the traditional chivalrous
game called "Moreska". It has
been performed in Korcula since the 15th
century and is of Spanish origin. It is
a battle between the army of the White
King and the army of the Black King, who
fight for the princess abducted by the
Black King. After a fierce fight with
swords, in seven battle figures and a
dramatic dialogue, the White King defeats
the Black King and sets the princess free.
The fight is accompanied by a battle march
performed by a brass band. Moreska is
performed every year on the 29th of July,
together with the celebration of St. Todor,
but also on several occasions during the
tourist season. |
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