History of the Kastelas

The sixteenth century. The Turkish troops are advancing ever closer on the Croatian coast, and the rich and richer inhabitants of Trogir and Split ask themselves where they are to save their property as well as their lives. In great haste, thirteen of them have fortresses erected along the coast, the Kastelas. Townspeople and farmers who were likewise threatened were drawn to the supposedly safe walls, and veritable villages arose inside the strongholds. Gardens were laid out - and laid waste by the Turkish army when individual Kastelas were captured. The buildings were set on fire, and at a few of the defensive complexes no stone was left upon another. But the people had already grown accustomed to their new home. And so as early as the seventeenth century they returned, erecting churches and settlements which, beyond the protective walls, grew together into one place. At first every inhabitant who did not happen to live from fishing still had their own fields, yet with the onset of industrialisation the region became so densely settled that agriculture grew ever less important - though it has never disappeared entirely. So today, besides tourist shops, museums and restaurants, beyond the modern marina with its expensive yachts, you will also find - somewhat hidden - small gardens in which the most delicious wine grows. Perhaps you may even be allowed a taste...