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The town of Omiš is located on the confluence of Cetina River, one of the most beautiful canyons in Europe, bordered by steep cliffs which make the town appear as if it was carved in the mountains. The unconquerable town was once a pirate nest and had a very turbulent past, reminders of which are the remaining cultural and historical sights. A panoramic boat ride will best describe the might of the river, the cliffs and the sea. It is precisely this combination which will give you a special adrenaline experience while rafting on Cetina, taking the zip-line down the steep rocks or for the bravest ones – while kanyoning.
We recommend visiting these 7 attractions in Omiš:
1. “Fortica” fortress, originated from the 15th century, can be reached from the center of the town through Baučići settlement. The trail is good and well-marked, and it takes about an hour to reach the fortress. Fortica offers a wonderful view of Omiš, Cetina Canyon and the islands of Hvar, Brač and Šolta.
2. The 13th century Mirabela Fortress can be reached by a daring flight of stairs through the historic heart of the city. It used to be a pirate fortress, so even nowadays, various pirate souvenirs can be found at its entrance. In memory of these turbulent past times, Omiš hosts the Pirates’ Battle every year, reconstructing the actual historical battle between the Omiš pirates and the Venetians. Mirabela is also a fantastic viewpoint, overlooking Omiš and Brač Channel.
3. Saint Mihovil’s Church (Saint Michael’s) in Omiš is home of numerous artwork. The square in front of the church is often packed with tourists and locals, as during summer, many festivals, musical and cultural events are held here, including the well-known “Omiški festival” of traditional Dalmatian “klapa” singing. Klapa singing is now included in UNESCO’s list of Intangible Heritage.
4. The Old Cemetery in Omiš is located east of the city center, with the oldest tomb dated from 1515. There are also Roman-era sarcophagi, and this old cemetery is definitely worth a visit during your walk along Omiš.
5. The remains of the ancient settlement Oneum were found in the zone of the settlement Baučići – the most important monuments with Roman inscriptions can be seen at the town museum. Reminders of pirate times are best presented in forms of the ships which they used, the so called “arrows from Omiš”. These were actually rowing boats that, at that time, had excellent sailing features. The Poljica Republic, an independent and autonomous administrative area, which was located on the western side of the Cetina River, from the 13th till the 19th century, left a mark in the Statute of the Republik, which can also be found in the town museum. This very statute, along with the Vinodol Book of Law, is one of the oldest Croatian historical documents, and is written in a Croatian dialect called “čakavica”.
6. The market in Omiš is located nearby the main road which passes through the city. You cannot visiz Omiš and skip this “belly of the town”, where you’ll find a variety of fruit & vegetables offered by locals. Tourists are attracted by nice names which locals use to in their attempts to attract buyers – you may hear them naming their products “sweeter than heaven” or “premier league material”. Fish market is also included in the same location, providing with the fresh, daily caught Adriatic fish & seafood.
7. Rafting on Cetina River is one of the most popular activities in Omiš. This adventure starts at about 9 kilometers upstream from Radmanove mlinice, from where rafts sail down to Luka, which is the final point of your journey and a popular excursion spot. The mid ranged route is 9 kilometers long and it includes rafting on rapids and passing below a small waterfall, so it is recommended to pass this segment on foot. After rafting, you can entertain your taste buds with traditional specialties at Radmanove mlinice.
We do believe these 7 reasons are proof enough for you to pack your bags and come visit this unusual town of beautiful stone houses and streets, bordered by untouched nature and Cetina Canyon.
Photo: TB Split – dalmatia
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This post is also available in: Croatian
