Sipan and Korcula

This morning we left early from Slano for the island of Sipan, a small island village that used to be a big vacation home place for locals in summer. We were supposed to go visit Mljet National Park, but due to high winds, we were unable to reach it and had to reroute. Sipan has some lovely old homes, some dating from the 14th century, many of which look now abandoned and in need of restoration. In some respects, it felt like a step back in time. We walked up the hill to see the old rectors palace, saw the church, and pet many of the cats in town :) Early morning we left to set sail for Korcula. 

We were told to be sure to be sitting or staying in our cabins, as the wind had been so rough the day prior safety is a big concern. Many of the wine glasses broke through their guards and fell on the floor and other items were tossed around. We arrive after a two-hour sail and disembark in the city of Korcula. 

This town is a walled medieval city still intact. The architecture of the streets is incredible, built to keep the city warm in winter and cool in summer. Mostly the city is now a pouring hub, but about 200 residents still live here and it attacks many to its cobblestone streets and gorgeous 13th-century churches. We walk around the town for a bit and take a tour with a fantastic guide explaining the history of domination of the area, of Marco Polo's suspected start in this island town, and of the sad decision by the Austrians to cut the original city walls down for a better 'sea view'. The oldest church in the city dates back to the 13th century. For a small fee, I climb St Mark's cathedral bell tower to spy out a view of the entire town. While I am up there the bells ring which scares me so badly! We enjoy dinner, a drink on top of one of the towers at Massimo's, and dessert at an alley Cafe before returning to the boat for the night.