TBT: KORÇULA, the LITTLE DUBROVNIK

Our next stop was the beautiful medieval island of Korçula less populated than Dubrovnik and Hvar,

 with its famous  Cathedral  ...

        

      as well as its stone alleys...

See the fishbone layout of its streets?

                                                          

AND  its fishbone street layout to block the wind from the sea on both sides. 

 Locals also claim it is Marco Polo's birthplace and  that's  why we met the very popular Lady Francesca, his mistress, who told us stories of his travels, her heartbreak (with a great deal of sarcasm)

No wonder we play that water game 'Marko Polo' as he really got around.

and he returned to spend his later years in Korçula. Lady Francesca brought the 13th century to life.

We were told to always respond, "Yes Mistress!" and our group did as asked with vigor.

She shared so much, including making each of us a sachet of herbs.. Here's one of my journal pages showing these sachets. (left corner) You know, baths were not plentiful in those days nor were ways to ward off diseases.

She pointed out architectural pieces indicating the rule of the Romans-

Lions were symbols of power  and we saw them everywhere except one of our island stops. 

Maybe one of my Wisconsinites remembers for sure which one...

Mistress Francesca explained her modest long dress and bell-shaped sleeves and covered feet. And how trampy those were who had flesh showing. She shamed those of us in the group donning shorts ... 

Dang, those slutty Americans. LOL.

Fingers crossed they won't sink our yacht! 

 

     Many stone carvings,              whether for games /    historical art were along our  walk.

A charming city indeed... 

Do visit Korçula and ask for a Mistress Francesca walking tour.