Rector’s Palace, Korčula : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Rector’s Palace, Korčula : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Welcome to the Rector’s Palace in Korčula, Croatia’s stunning, historic city situated on the Adriatic Coast. From its historical roots dating back to the 14th century to the vibrant culture of today, it’s a paradise full of unique attractions. This iconic royal palace has seen its share of kings, artists, and celebrities, making it a must-see destination for any traveler. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the interesting facts, important information, and essential travel tips to ensure your visit to the Rector’s Palace is as exceptional as possible. We’ll take a look at what makes this architecture Masterpiece so unique, delve into its interesting history, and offer all the essential advice you need to get the most from your visit. From its awe-inspiring beauty to its charming ambiance, the Rector’s Palace will make for a truly extraordinary experience!

Interesting Facts About Rector’s Palace, Korčula

1. The palace was destroyed by an earthquake in the 16th century, but was later rebuilt by the local rector who became the first owner of the palace.

2. It was originally owned by two families: the Venetian Giustiniani and the local Bembas but eventually it was inherited by the rector.

3. It has a unique clock tower which makes a soft chime every hour.

4. Inside, there is a magnificent art collection including two works by Titian and a Pricipije painting.

5. There is also a sacrarium – a room dedicated to honouring the patron saint of Korčula, Santa Maria Salute which contains a permanent oratory.

6. In 1995, the palace underwent a major renovation and was restored to its original look.

7. The palace is currently used as a museum that houses a collection of old documents, manuscripts, books and remains of the ancient city.

8. It is believed that the Italian author Marco Polo was born in the palace as well.

9. During the month of July and August, the palace hosts classical music concerts in its monumental courtyard.

History & Information About Rector’s Palace, Korčula

Rector’s Palace in Korčula, Croatia dates back to the 15th century when it was the seat of the Venetian-appointed Duke. It was built as a naval and military storage facility and the center for Venetian rulers of the island. The semicircular facade was constructed from white local stone and appears to have two stories. The upper level was largely a loggia, with small apartments for officials and guests. The ground floor contained storage facilities and quarters for the duke and his family.

During the Renaissance, the palace underwent multiple alterations and reconstructions, most notably by Italian-born builder Michele Sanmicheli. According to legend, he was impressed by the beauty of the facade and constructed the winged lion (which symbolizes Venice) with a segmented exterior in the center of it. The palace was not only the seat of the ruling classes but also a popular meeting place for Korčulans. It hosted poets, musicians and theatrical troupes, giving rise to the popular phrase “The Rector’s Palace in Korčula, the home of Croatian culture”.

After World War II, the building underwent restoration and was opened as a public library in 1950. From the 1960s, the venue was used mainly as a performance space, welcoming acts such as the renowned dubrovačko kazalište (Dubrovnik theater) and numerous international dance, theater and music festivals throughout the decades.

Today, Rector’s Palace remains an important cultural site in Korčula. It serves as a venue for many art, music and educational activities, as well as hosting exhibitions, conferences and workshops. The palace has also been carefully renovated and maintained over the centuries, making it one of the best-preserved examples of an Italian-style residence in Croatia.

Travel Guide For Visiting Rector’s Palace, Korčula

, Croatia

Rector’s Palace is a historic building located in the heart of the Old Town of Korčula, Croatia. It was built in the late-15th century and today it is a museum with various exhibits showing off the history and culture of the city. From the 14th-century city walls to the paintings, sculptures, and artefacts collected over the centuries, the palace is a must-see for visitors to the city.

How to get there:

The easiest way to get to the Rector’s Palace is to take a boat from the nearby port town of Orebic. The distance between the two is only about 8.2 miles (13.2 km), and the journey should take around 45 minutes. Alternatively, folks can take a bus or drive from Split, which would take about 3 hours and 20 minutes or 5-6 hours, respectively.

Things to Do:

Although the Rector’s Palace is home to a museum showcasing cultural artefacts and history, visitors will still have plenty to explore outside the palace walls. There are a series of staircases that lead up to St. Mark’s Cathedral—the former seat of the city’s officials—as well as the adjacent Clock Tower, which overlooks the bay.

The Rector’s Palace also houses a small museum dedicated to the great explorer Marco Polo, who was born here in the 13th century. Visitors should also take the time to visit the nearby Wauben Tower, as well as the Captain’s Tower, which offers stunning views of the bay and city.

Eating & Drinking:

As one of the most sought-after destinations in Croatia, Korčula is home to a number of great restaurants and bars. Visitors should check out Konoba Gero for its seafood prepared with local ingredients, as well as Gazebo Wine & Cocktail Bar for its array of quality wines and classic c**ktails.

For those staying in the Old Town, there are several restaurants to choose from, including Aquarius, Terra Magica, and Marina. For a more local experience, the narrow alleys of the city are lined with konobe (taverns) which offer classic Croatian dishes such as homemade pasta, seafood, and grilled meats.

Accommodations:

Korčula is a popular tourist destination and as such, visitors can find a range of accommodation options that suit their budget and style. From small guesthouses and boutique inns to larger hotels and resorts, there’s something for every kind of traveller in this part of Croatia.

For a beachside getaway, check out the nearby Club Hotel Korčula. The hotel has a modern design, outdoor pool, and selection of rooms and suites that come complete with balconies facing the Adriatic Sea. Other interesting options include the Hotel Mornar and the Adria Hotel. The former features a spa with sauna and massage facilities, while the latter has an onsite restaurant and bar.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rector’s Palace, Korčula

Q: Where is Rector’s Palace located?

A: Rector’s Palace is in the heart of Korčula Town, on the Croatian island of Korčula in the Adriatic Sea. The palace overlooks the old city walls of Korčula and is adjacent to Tower and Land Gate of the St. Marcus Square.

Q: What is the history of Rector’s Palace?

A: Rector’s Palace was built in the 15th century and served as the administrative headquarters of the Venetian governors of Korčula. Today, the palace houses a museum dedicated to the history of the Island’s St. Marcus Fortress, as well as an exhibition of the works of Italian and Croatian Renaissance painters.

Q: What can visitors find in Rector’s Palace?

A: Visitors to Rector’s Palace can explore the museum’s exhibitions and display of artifacts from the history of the island and the palace, as well as enjoy seasonal concerts and events. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a tour of the palace itself, complete with classic Venetian architecture.

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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