Why?
There’s much more to Zaostrog than the sun and sea. Although it might seem like an oasis of serenity, this coastal area hides the secrets of more than 2000 years-long history, often marked by wars, hunger and migrations. Different empires, kingdoms, and countries left their mark here, remaining visible in local customs, foods, and traditions. But the strongest force which ruled this area was definitely its nature – the overpowering Biokovo Mountain and the Adriatic Sea. Walking through the Zaostrog Old Village, you can almost feel something indigenous. However, its recent revival is a striking contrast to its image in the early 1960s, when it was completely abandoned. The people who left it then were mostly local peasants and the people who walk its streets today are world travelers. Between the two, there is a gap to be bridged.
Where and what?
Zaostrog Old Village Tour will take you from the Zaostrog Cemetery and the Church of St. Barbara to the Old Village and another Church of St. Barbara, and it will end in a nearby stone house where you’ll have a chance to taste local products such as olive oil, herbs, spices, and liqueurs. Also, you’ll see a small exhibit of traditional folk costumes as well as agricultural and household tools and watch a presentation dedicated to Zaostrog’s past and present.
Who?
The tour is designed by Martina and Božena. Both have strong ties with Zaostrog and live here year-round. Božena moved to the Old Village in 2015 from the city of Rijeka, where she grew up and spent years working as a puppeteer actress at Rijeka City Puppet Theater. Now she devotes her time to organizing workshops for kids and adults, reviving the Dalmatian dog in Zaostrog, and running a family farm with her husband. Martina grew up both in the nearby town of Ploče and Zaostrog, where her mother is from. An art historian and tour guide, she finally realized it was time to present her hometown and share her knowledge about its past and concerns for its future. Along the way, we also expect other locals to join the tour and share their stories.
When?
During the summer of 2023, the tour will take place every Sunday evening. Its approximate duration is 1 h to 1h30 mins. Upon request, the tour can also be booked at another time.
How to pay?
The price is €12 per person. For families, we offer a 15% discount. The same discount can be offered to groups of over 5 people. Mind you, the maximum number of tour participants is 10. You can pay either in cash or by bank transfer.
For all other info, you can always contact us – phone calls, texts, emails – everything is fine with us. Can’t wait to walk with you in the “streets” of Zaostrog Old Village!
