Primosten – Dalmatia – Croatia is a small fishing settlement, located on an islet and connected to the mainland with a bridge. Thus its name (the verb primostiti – to bridge). Surrounded by seven islets, typical Mediterranean culture and beautiful beaches.
In addition to numerous well known and popular travel destinations and places as Zadar, Split, Pula and Dubrovnik, the picturesque town of Primosten with its characteristic peninsula in Central Dalmatia certainly stands out and is worth a visit. Despite the small size, Primosten is truly a pearl of the Adriatic Sea. It offers some interesting sights, beautiful beaches and a magical region adorned with world famous vineyards. Let’s take a trip and find everything you need to know about this charming little town for your next vacation.
History
Primosten, referred to by seafarers as The Dry Cape due to receiving very little rainfall. Its central geographical location between the tourist destinations make Primosten an increasingly popular tourist destination in Croatia. The historic Old Town and its narrow streets is located on a peninsula and separated from the modern tourist center by a bridge. In the past, the inhabitants of Primosten earn their livelihood by fishing, growing olives and vines while today tourism is playing the most important role.
Numerous archeological findings in the area around Primosten prove that the place is inhabited since the time of the Illyrians and Greeks. In the Middle Ages, families settled on the island to protect themselves from the Ottoman attacks and this marks the establishment of settlements. The island is formerly known as Caput Cista and 1564. is given the name of Primosten.
Primosten
Over the time, Primosten develops into an important commerce center on the Adriatic Sea of Croatia. As a result, bridge connecting the island to the mainland is replaced by a dam, making the island into a peninsula. Since the 17th century, a city wall is built around the Old Town and is now exclusively on the peninsula. In addition to the Church of St. George, build in the 15th century, the Church of Our Lady of Mercy and the Church of St. Rocco are build as protection from the plague.
The Old Town of Primosten is characterized by small and winding streets typical for Dalmatia. They lead to the Square of Bishop Josip Arneric. You can visit the square by going through the city gate of the peninsula which will transport you to the historical past of Primosten. When the old drawbridge is replaced by the dam, the city gate is built. It symbolically separates the Old Town from the modern center.
St George’s Church
The landmark of the town of Primosten is the Church of St. George. It rises up on a mountain in the middle of the historical peninsula and reminds a little of Rovinj. The church is build in the 15th century. Thanks to its elevated position offers a wonderful view of the roofs of the picturesque Old Town, whose colors contrast with the deep blue Adriatic Sea of Croatia.
In the interior of the church,(restored in the 18th century) you can visit the sarcophagus of Bishop Arneric. The square at the entrance of the peninsula has his name. Furthermore, there is an icon of the Virgin Mary made by Master Cusio. In addition to the Virgin Mary, this icon also represents Saints Luke and George.
The coast along the Adriatic Sea is adorned with breathtaking beaches and crystal clear water and Primosten is no exception. Although Primosten is a quite small place, it offers picturesque pebble beaches perfect for families.
When exploring the city and surroundings, you will want to recharge your batteries with a delicious meal of Dalmatian cuisine. In Primosten you will find a wide range of restaurants with something for every taste.
