Ode to Olive - the Tree of Life

The olive tree is native to Mediteranean basin, everywhere from Arabian world to Greece, Italy and of course Croatia.  Nowdays there are many hybrid cultivars but we are to talk about native olive. 

It is known that olive originates from Syria. The Phoenicians spread it throughout the Mediterranean, and the Greeks brought it here are a few centuries before Christ, while the Romans popularized and spread the olive groves. It is known that the edible olive has been cultivated for at least 5,000 to 6,000 years, mainly for olive oil which was the source of wealth for the acient civilizations, who used it as a basic foodstuff, for massage, for sacred rites and as fuel for oil lamps.  
During the ancient Olympic Games the fighters as a sign of victory, received a wreath woven out of olive branch.

The ancient Romans considered people who used the fat of animal origin and not olive oil- a barbarians. 

For Christians, olive is a sacred tree. The Bible often refers to the olive tree. Noah with his boat sent a dove in search of land, it returned with an olive branch in its beak. It was a sign of hope, a sign that the earth was green again, that life is back. Since then a dove with an olive branch in its beak is a symbol of hope and peace. Jesus was entering Jerusalem greeted with olive branches and spent his last night in the Garden of Olives.As a motive, olives is common in the art, for example, in the landscapes of the Mediterranean. The olive harvest is shown on Greek amphorae in the 4th century BC.

Olive tree is a symbol of peace, although peace under its tree were few. It is said that time and suffering  deeply cut into the bark, so is the face of farmers and fishermen often said to be flogged by bora and old as an olive tree.

 

In Croatia, the most famous famous are Olive gardens of Lun, millennia-old wild olive tree groves, one of three such sites in the world in general. Protected in 1963g. and declared a botanical reserve. We are talking about over 80,000 trees high up to eight meters on 24 hectars with about 1,500 wild old olive trees "Olea Oleaster" - beautiful wild olive trees which stand out for their age, size and fantastic shapes. On the whole Mediterranean there is no more such surviving wild olive trees in their natural environment. The cultivated olive tree has a wide space in which it grows, a wild olive tree as a forest species of Mediterranean evergreen species Olea Oleaster is now extremely rare.

An interesting fact about the oldest olive trees in Croatia:
 - In Kastel Štafilić near Split, growing olive tree is around 1750 years old, meaning planted around 260. year AD.- Brijuni old olive tree, established the age of about 1600 years
 - In Lunj olive oldest olive tree has about 1600 years
showing that they were planted 300 years before the arrival of the Croats in this area ..

Rab olives are right behind those listed above. According to current research, the oldest living olive trees on the island of Rab was found in village Kampor, planted back in 772.nd year, up to the 2015 counts fantastic 1243 years of age! And after almost 13 centuries it is still alive and gives the fruit - rightfully  "the tree of life". Eight meters of hight and still bears fruit, about 100 kilos of olives per year.

A series of Rab olives by age continues by olive from 978th ​​yr., 1129. yr., then 1281 year - all three from Supetarska Draga village, followed by olives from year 1317 and 1360 both from Palit and  one from 1398 year from Barbat village.

Especially interesting is the fact that all seven of the oldest olive trees on the island of Rab are located near the present and former monasteries in Kampor, Supetarska Draga and Barbat. We can conclude that the Church in the Middle Ages gave considerable attention to the spread of olive agricultural crops.
It is important to note that until the 20 ct. Lun land with the oldest olive trees on the Adriatic coast belonged to the diocese Arbe since its founding in year 530, therefore to Rab - so we can proudly say that Lun olives bear effort of Rab people and that the olive growing on the island of Rab is just as old. 
  
In Croatia are cultivated dozens of varieties of olives, and besides Dalmatian, very popular are Istrian olive oils. Olive oil is an essential ingredient of Mediterranean cuisine but it's healing properties have long been known, in particular of olive leaves. Ancient Egyptians used it for medical purposes and in mummification of Pharaoh, while later established cultures realised that the leaves are more useful to living than dead.

Naimly, the green fleshy olive leaf is rich natural source of compounds that have potent antibacterial activity.
 
In Dalmatia and on the islands the olive leaf is dried and then prepared as tea. This tea has been used against cough, flu. Today research reveals that olive leaves regulate pressure and sugar, feaver and influenza, improves the condition of the body in a number of diseases caused by microbes - pneumonia, gonorrhea, tuberculosis, influenza, meningitis, hepatitis B, herpes, etc. It is also good in the urinary problems and in surgical infections. It has also been proven that olive leaf prevents infection caused by the action of fungi.

So  "When you pass next to the olive, bow to it!"

Rab in winter and low season

For the cultural/ travel orientated, Rab just like most places along the croatian coast and islands, lives a different tranquil life off the main summer rush.
Blessed with a mild climate even during the winter months, island Rab is a great destination to visit all year arround.it offers relaxation from bussy urban life, pleasant walks outdoors and visiting historical sights without summer crowds.


Rab has perfect weather if you appreciate the great outdoors; biking or trekking. Best time to visit Rab is late autmun/early spring and if you want something unusual and spectacular - february and march to experience famous bura wind. December is usually much warmer than rest of the continental Europe and temperatures are arround 13-16 degrees celsius.

Winter on Rab, here’s why:
1. Fewer tourists. This is a big one.
The old town opf Rab is very small and during winter season almost deserted, which makes it a perfect scenary for wandering the streets and walls. When sunny ( and that is often) one can also enjoy the winter sun on the sheltered promenade just bellow the town walls. This time of the year offers pristine serenity and space to truely enjoy the sights. At ease, with time for everything.
2. Cheaper. Except for the Christmas-New Year’s period when Croatians head to their Adriatic pearl, Rab hotel rates or private accommodation are up to 40% cheaper in winter but since only a few are open timely booking is required. Therefore, you'd need to make sure you have a place to stay in advance.
3. More authentic. Without the rush of tourists, you can appreciate the place as a living, breathing island, not a mass tourism hotspot. The cafes are filled with locals and there is a number of local gatherings.
4. Local Festivals. Participating in Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Rab can be a wonderfully festive way to experience local culture and liven up the winter months. Except winter holiday season there is a review of the “Rabske vedute” klapa ensembles, Day of walking and a Bread Day in October; Rab trekking in November, St. Nicolas seamen day  beggining of December month culminating with Christmas concerts and N.Y. celebrations from morning-to-morning. Beginning of the next year starts with local carnivals, then Easter celebrations and spring festivals for the beginning of the new tourist season. Rab has a lively artistic and musical communities and there are different occassions throughout the year when one can enjoy different concerts and art-shows. Last sunday in April are "Krizi" local religouse pilgrim for health and goodness and the nicest month of them all is of copurse, blossoming May, when we also celebrate Rab town's day (09.05.)

12.02.2012 

 bura and snow on the peaks of Velebit, here +18 C.

swans winter stay december, 2010

- Last sunday in April - local pilgrimage KRIZI / Crucifixes - held annualy since 16ct.

Except local carnival events during the winter on a local parties in villages arround the island and with the final carnival parade before lent - Rab is also known for it's 500 yrs old Crucifixes procession.

Spring brings wonderful flowers and warm weather for lng walks and enjoyments in discovering various island landscapes or day-excursions.








Arrivals;
For overseas arrivals outside summer season, the easiest way is landing at Zagreb airport and getting a public transport to Rab or conntact us for organising a transfer. Like many destinations along the Croatian coast, Rab does not have a regular flights since the nearest Krk or Zadar airports operate only during the tourist season April - October .. However, Zagreb is only 3,5h away.  Just conntact us on time to organise your accommodation ( and a  transfer if you preffer) and that's it.

If you would like some help to tailor your off season stay with some activities, sightseeing, outdoors and excursions, I can offer you assistance and guiding.

Best walking trails on the island Rab

Trekking and Walking routes on island Rab

Island Rab is the second greenest island on the Adriatic after NP Mljet down south in Dalmatia. It is full of wonderful discoveries for the nature lovers and holidaymakers. Island of Rab has long promenades along the coast and cycling paths for an active recreational holiday. Routs are leading past the attractive scenary and outstanding natural beauties.



For visitors who are into the off-the- main road wanderings, avoiding bussy spots and like hidden beautiful locations, there are many walks to discover here on the island. Since the island is diverse in it's geological characteristics, the trails differe significantly in their sorts and overral landscape experience; from ridge stone desert to rich woods and breathtaking coves... The walks can be easy or more demanding, depending on the route selected.

In this blog you will find useful information about all these walk possibilities ( tour guided or your own exploration).

Guided excursions can be tailored to your own interests and according to duration of your stay. Please email me for more information or to organise your stay ( accommodation, food, excursions) and to make arrangements with the local guides.

Individual and 1st time visitors;
It is advisable to hire a local guide for most trekks, even if you are an experienced hiker - new habitat is always tricky. Highly recommended, a requirement for 1st time visitors if going for more demanding routes ( see bellow descriptions).

Best time for the trekking and long walks is in spring months to mid-June / beginning of summer and mid- September to November. This way one avoids summer heat and rush and enjoys the pleasant temeratures and the surroundings at their best. Even the winter months are OK since usual temperature are arround 8-10 C , and there is no snow. Summer time ( 15.06.-15.09.) makes it very difficult due to high temepratures ( can be 40+ on the rocks, no water, no shade) and is not recommended to anyone. In any case, although this is not great wilderness, common sense and good equipment ( walking shoes, provisions) are required ;-))



THE HIDDEN TREASURES OF ISLAND RAB:

Rab is the ninth largest island of the Croatian Adriatic, 22 km in length and 11 km wide. The total length of cycling paths on the island of Rab is 157 km and the total length of walking paths on the island of Rab is 144 km.

WALKING TRAILS - overviews and descriptions:


- Gonar / Supetarska Draga - Kampor area
Overview; seaside walk

Description: This promenade romantic stroll starts along the Miral bay to Boljkovac horn; 1,5 km of quiet and nice seaside walk, ideal for spring/ late summer walks. Best time; early mornings or afternoon so that you can end it with a nice glass of wine on the terrasse in Restaurant More and deliciouse dinner with stunning sunset view or in a caffe near by.
Tip: best starting point for this walk is directly from Gonar if finishing at the evening since there is no streetlight along the promenade.

Gradation: easy , due to damaged passages not recommended for cyclist.

LOPAR AREA

- Ciganka, Sturic, Dubac; Lopar.

Overview; sandy landscape walk, interesting geological location

Description; Start from the harbour of old Lopar towards the Church and further to reach the remote natural sandy beaches with a view on high mountain and neighbouring islands Grgur and Goli. Stunning landscapes formed by stgrong bura winds, natural sculptures of carved hills and sandy slopes to the shore covered with aromatic bushes and herbs. Nice and not difficult walks along the paths next to the cristal clear sea.
The whole back NE side is very quiet and ideal for a whole day picknick and a good rest, in summer season also great for swimming.

Gradation: medium, duration cca 3 h

water and wind sculpture, a photo by kristoforina on Flickr.

Lopar also offers comfortable bike ride on the side roads passing over the countryside hills of Lopar, through the woods.

- Sahara, Podpecina, Stolac; Lopar.

Overview; sandy landscape walk, interesting geological location

Description; Start from the San Marino side behind the private houses on the hill and follow markations to reach the remote natural sandy beach Sahara. Popular bathing bay in summer, can be flooded in winter. Walk along the bay and cut accross the hill towards Stolac bay, avoiding Podpecina branch which is very difficult terrain and only for adventurouse and well fit. Off the main season this is a piece of unspoilt landscape with a stunning view on high mountain Velebit and neighbouring islands Grgur and Goli. Earth configuration is shaped by stgrong bura winds, natural sculptures of carved hills and sandy slopes to the shore covered with aromatic bushes and herbs.

Gradation: medium to heavy, duration cca 3 - 3,5 h.

Warning to individual trekkers; Walking roundabout Lopar peninsula can be very demanding at times due to tricky terrain. roundabout Lopar peninsula required a whole day and in short winter days( dec- feb) not possible. Area around Podpecine, although drawn in the local maps is not recommended due to very difficult terrain. Engagement of a local guide highly recommended for 1st time visitors.

KAMPOR AREA

- Kalifront walk
Overview; trekking or cycling in the rich oak wood, if visiting during the bathing season, go for a swimm in Cifnata bay.

Description: Kalifront peninsula is located on N-W side of the island Rab. Its main characteristics are carst relief, holm oak woods and coast with beautiful sea bays. This is the greenest part of the whole island. The length is 9 km from the cape of Kalifront to the cape of Frkanj. The width is 3 km from the cape of Planka to the bay of Kampor. The sea altitude is 50-70 m and the highest point is the area of Plogar 94 m. The micro destination is located in a Nature wood reserve covering wide area of Kalifront and Dundovo woods and is 'a must' for recreative walking. The whole Dundovo-Kalifront area is also ideal for mountain-biking or long trekking. In this space is located the open State hunting grounds, managed by Faculty of Forestry in Zagreb for the purpose of scientific and research work. The area is marked with high fences. Visitors can enter the grounds through provided entrences or through the main gate.
This is ambient rich in flora and fauna. From the big animals here you may find deer ( Axis axis) and mouflon ( Ovis musimon) and small animals include various birds ( for expl. Athene noctua and Apodemus flavicollis ), beetles, butterflies, snakes ( no vipera) and lizzards.
Dundovo and Kalifront wooods are famouse for its holm oaks. In 1949 the whole area was declared a natural rarity. Holm oak ( Quercus ilex) is an evergreen oak which can count thousands of years of age. Couple of impressive oaks are preserved in the forest. Particularity of the woods are old samples of Quercus pubescens.

Through the woods runs an asphalted road from the main road to Kalifront horn and to Sv. Mara.

Due to the well marked easy paths Kalifront- Dundovo woods are suitable for different users, from sportsmen ( for conditioning), to older people and families with children. Highly recommended to people recovering after medical treatments or people with respiratory tract problems. Half-day tour or whole day excursions - guided tours recommended as people often loose orientation and sense of time in the wood area..

Routes:

A) - walk or bike to Kristofor horn and then turn to Cifnata bay for a nice bathing. Distance: cca 5 km one way from the main crosstroad to the horn + another 4,5 km to Cifnata and back. Gradation: medium.


B) - walk or bike to Kalifront horn at the very end of the whole peninsula and take a bath in one of the small pebble beaches there. Gradation: medium. cca 5 km straight


C) - serious biking trail: - Kalifront woods - turn to Armata bay, along the trail toward the Planka bay or Sv. Mara and then up to the main path in the middle and head back to the main motorway road. I preffer the road from Planka back to main road since it is more challanging for a bike-ride and is on the trekking road, no asphalt.
Gradation: medium.


D) Premuzic trekk 2 -see the map bellow; This path of Premuzic was built around 1930 by Ante Premuzic, an engineer holding a BSc in Forestry and a famous architect and constructor of forest roads, mountain-tourist paths and stream management. The path ;  Pidok - special reserve forest Dundo - botanical reserve - Bay of Christopher - Gozinka - Suha Punta. Marked on the map with numbers 9 and 10. In whole, it is 15 km long, passing primarily through the woods. The resting places; Gozinka cove, Suha Punta and during the tourist season on Frkanj peninsula west side. The coastal part of the trail is exposed to the sirocco winds. The trail is not for cyclists.
Gradation; medium, duration whole day



Warning to individual visitors;
Walking roundabout Kalifront peninsula can be very demanding due to tricky terrain, specially if you are walking the costal part and is time consuming -
lso, orientation in the woods can be tricky and the distances are greater than appearing on the tourist trekking maps. Engagement of a local guide highly recommended for 1st time visitors.

BARBAT

- walk along the stonewall alley -

Overview; roundabout between the stonewals labyrinth

Description; Stonewalls are old traditional and the main landmarks of the whole adriatic region. This is the oldest construction technique in use since prehistorical times to present. Since there is no dating and no particular characteristic for distinguishing, since the materials used are always ones at the first hand, local simple stones, it is impossible to say how old the stonewalls around the croatian islands are. They are omnipresent on our islands and in the coastal area, giving a characteristic look to the landscape. Best known ones are the Starogradska polja ( the Ager of Pharos) on island of Hvar ( best preserved antique landscape on the whole Mediterranean, listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List), stonewalls near Primosten or nearby centurian or even millenian stonewalls on Lun, island Pag. Of course, island Rab also has its stonewalls; mainly on the hills of Kamenjak ( you will walk accross some if you depart on the Premuzic trekk along this hill) and smaller ones in the fertiel walles.
Recently the Barbat community has taken a great effort to restore traditional stonewalls on one of the locations near the Grpe hammlet. Predict a minimum 2 h medium heavy wander walk or take longer time and more difficult trekk into the inland stone and carst wilderness of Kamenjak ridge.


Gradation: medium to difficult, not recommended for cyclists. cca 5 h

SUPETARSKA DRAGA

- Premuzic trekk 1 - GEO PARK

Overview: Path crosses the main Rab ridge and leads accross the Geopark Fruga valley to Lopar. The trail is partly exposed to the sun, and partly runs through the woods, passing through the Geo park with intersting geological sights. The Lopar part of the trail is exposed to the bora wind. The trail is not for cyclists.


Description; The Premuziceva-1 geological begins in the settlement of Matkici near the village of Supetarska Draga, on the bridge above a dam which regulates stream waters of Vela draga and takes you across the hill to the camping area in Lopar - San Marino. There are no resting places nor drinking water, so it is recommended to bring along the water. The sea altitude of the bridge is 12 m and the path slowly climbs along the left flow of the stream Vela draga and then exits to the plateau at the 120-130m above the sea level. There is a rare Holm oak forest Suhanj where we can see impressive examples of Holm oak trees. The path proceeds to the forest area Fruga. Before reaching the rocky carst area, on the left side of the path there is a ground eroded in the flood, which is a nice example of the climate factors' influence on the ground and the significance of the vegetation for the protection of such ground. There is also a "Roman path", a part of the pathway which indicates the construction methods of the Roman Empire. The path reaches the rocky carst area and here you can enjoy wonderful views from the peninsula of Lopar, the islands of St. Gregory and Krk. Mountain Velebit can be seen in the background. Due to bora impacts the vegetation in this area is quite scarce. The path lowers towards the bridge-dam of the stream area Jamina, next to the fence of the campsite San Marino in Lopar. Marked on the map with numbers 1, 2 The influence of erosion on the flysch ground and its vegetation is best seen on the examples of unusual forms of ground in the area of the path of Premuzic. Some of the forms which resemble towers and pyramids reach the height of 5 m.

Whole distance Rab- Lopar along this trekk is cca 12 km , suitable only for advanced and fitt - prepare for some stone-walls crossings, difficult paths and sharp stones.

Gradation: demanding, duration 5h one dirrection

fruga, a photo by kristoforina on Flickr.

geopark, a photo by kristoforina on Flickr.

- Kamenjak panorama trekk -

Overview; easy hill trekk along the asphalted road. Duration from town Rab 4h.

Description: Excellent panorama views on the whole island. Kamenjak with its peak at 408m is the highest point on the island. It is a composition of limestone that protects the island from the cold northern wind - bura. This wind is also the main moulder of the carst desert on the Velebit canal side of the island and scarce vegetation, creating the most stunning environment. At the top one can enjoy the best and most encompassing views of the island and of the whole archipelago; see islands Cres, Losinj, Pag, Silba, Olib, Krk... On a clear day it is possible to see the mountain Ucka on the nord or islands Ugljan and Molat on the south, which are almost 40miles distance. In the main season ( June- September) there is a rest point - restaurant open, with nice terrasse where you can buy soft drinks and snacks or even order some grilled dishes.

Gradation: to panorama point - medium, rest of the trail heavy
Duration cca 4-5 h up & back

Warning: Although marked on the trekking maps, the whole trekking route along the Kamenjak hill from Barbat to Lopar is very difficult; difficult-to-walk sharp rocks terrain criss-crossed with stonewalls and fences, difficult to move and with no shade, not recommended for children or unfit / older people. Due to its difficulty and duration ( not possible in one day) this is only for experienced trekkers and with a guide only.

alone in wilderness, a photo by kristoforina on Flickr.

- Mundanije and Banjol countryside walk -

Overview: - walking path through the fertile valleys in the island middle.


Description; Start along the hill Sv. Illayah, cross to Mundanije and continue at the Sotici hammlet towards Godinici, Ribarici and Matusan hammlets. Take a turn off the main road arround the hill and continue to Santa Lucia church in Banjol, returning to the town along the long promenade from the camping Padova 3. This is an easy half day walking tour. No rest points so bring your own supplies for picknick. This is a great idea if you want to enjoy the nature and countryside and also meet to local inhabiotants..

Gradation: easy

pretty pretty, a photo by kristoforina on Flickr.

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IMPORTANT GENERAL INFORMATIONS:
On the locations off the main road and out of villages there is no services or a restaurant/ shop, so you need to take your own provisions. Paths are partly exposed to sun, so fair amount of water is a must, specially during the summer months... In summer avoid Kamenjak hill completely when, due to heavy conditions ( high temepratures, no shade, difficult terrain), it can get dangerouse even for experienced trekkers and it is high chance to get a sunstroke. In winter periods ( Dec.- March) avoid trekking under bura winds as these conditions heavily increase the energy and time needed for the complition of the trails; you can get underwarmed and loose lots of energy on moving.Individual visitors;

It is advisable to hire a local guide for most trekks, even if you are an experienced hiker - new habitat is always tricky. Highly recommended, if not a requirement for 1st time visitors.

Only Gonar trekk is easy enough for do-it-alone sightseeing. Oherwise, never leave alone, tell to your host where you are going and when you plann to be back, get a good map, some food and water, small first-aid kit and make note of the important emergency phone numbers before you leave; the emergency help number: 112 .

If you would like Guided trips I am available on request, either on the island or in surroundings. I have been a licenced guide since 2003 and have permits for Primorsko goranska, Licko senjska, Zadarska and Zagreb countie.

Looking forward to be your guide, contact me by email.

Kristina

related photoalbums:

ISLAND RAB: FLOWERS & NATURE

Hidden Rab

discover rab beauties - slideshow

Creative Inspiration Slideshow: Kristina’s trip to Rab, Kvarner Bay Islands, Croatia was created by TripAdvisor. See another Rab slideshow. Create your own stunning slideshow with our free photo slideshow maker.

Rab; Island of Art

Rich in history and heritage, full of mediterranean spirit - Rab is an excellent destination to be discovered by fine art and heritage lovers, offering a unique surroundings of comfort and beauty.Town Rab is a visual feast for lovers of architecture and history and it looks like a museum on the open, while the island is a treasure of beautiful landscapes; from woods, gardens, sandy lagoons, crystal rocky bays, to the barren stone-desert.

Island is very bussy during the summer months / July-August and recommended time for visit is spring- early or late summer. Then you can combine your relax holiday, swimming and beach time with the nice cultural tours and sightseeings, without being stressed out by the crowds one can enjoy more authentic experience. You can appreciate island more in an easy and relaxed manner; the cafes, bars, restaurants are filled with locals and there is a number of local gatherings to enjoy too.

ACTIVE TOURIST: cultural tours
The tours are tailored depending on how long or short you stay and after interest. Enjoy your visit to Rab - these Thematic cultural itineraries will bring you the chance to spend your holidays differently; get to know the island microworld, discover stunning sights, architecture, heritage and meet the locals.
All tours are tailor-made, organised from mid. March to mid June and September-October months, outside the big summer heat and tourist crowds. Packages are modified after your desire, budget and time and they are available on idividual ( 1-3 pers.) or small group ( 3-15) basis.



Except all those amazing historical sights with great artworks in the old town of Rab and surrounding villages, island also offers great landscape sights and other inspirational motives for the painters and photographers as well as art lovers and historians.
From pictoresque every day details, to stunning views, landscape and seascape, superb athmosphere to fine lighting necessary for fine eyed to interesting and engaging traditions and historical sights...

- "Ars Isolaneo" - holiday painting; where better to paint than on an adriatic island with intensive colours and forms. Open- air painting on the beautiful sights of Rab after individual preferance landscape, architecture, people, elements of nature compositions or simpple abstract on the mediterranean light. ( Studio space - on lease only. )


Day-routine: 4-5 h work or negotiable

- "Bella vista tour" - Island Photowalks- hidden island scenary with local guide. Requirements:- qood walking shoes and a photo-camera- basic photography knowledge

This Art activities are suited for hobbyists, smaller fun groups and individuals, either proffessional or hobby artists.





- "Historical town walk"

- This tour offers the best and complete perspective on this enchanting island and town. All about local history, visit to all the important sites and hidden corners. What you do not find in the guidebooks or on your own. Rab is a visual feast for lovers of historical architecture and looks like a museum on the open. - 3h






- "Myths and legends" - enjoy the local storytelling and literature, hear about the local heritage and legends. all on miracules that took place here, patron saint and how to beat your enemy, forbiden love of a shepard..
- cca 2-2,5h











- Meet members of Rab Croissbow association - learn the history of crossbow, about the local crossbow association and revival of history - Rab Fjera - 2 h.





 




- "Rab tour + franciscan monastery" - Combination of town Rab sightseeing and a walk and visit to franciscan monastery in Kampor. This tour combines a town Rab sightseeing with 40-45 min. promenade walk along the seaside promenade ( 2, 5 km) to the franciscan monastery. In the monastery we visit an interesting ethno collection, art galery, the atrium and the wonderful interiors of the reneissance church of St. Bernardine. Plenty of time for conversation and more local heritage is main characteristic of this tour. - 4h

All Tours and activities after appointment any time from: 15.03.-20.06. and 01.09.-15.11.

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History of Art

Those interested in history of art can enjoy fine artworks from reneissance ( altar paintings, fine examples of goldsmith furniture in sacral arts, reliques, woodworks, hand-written manuscripts, icons) to great monumental sights dating to r0manesque and reneissance era.

Here overview of the places of interest and artefacts for cultural nomands and general public interested in history of arts and humanities;

Parish church of the Holy Mary;
- Pieta and Baptistery, 15 ct. Petar Trogiranin - Chorus 1445 - Ciborium 9 ct. - Jesus Christ relief, Byzant 8 ct. - Altarpainting Virgin and a Child, 14. ct, Guariento d’Arpo - Altar painting The Assumptiont, late Venetian baroque (between 1746 and 1756) - Altar marmor Intarsia with St. Christopher ( 17 ct.) - St. Christopher reliquiem - variouse holy artefacts ( crucifixes, censers, cups, ..) - Stucco von sp?t venezianische Barok; 18 Jh. Clemente i Giacomo Somazzi - organs by Petar Nekic from 1756, renovated - an altarpiece of Virgin and Child, 14th century, supposedly by Guariento d’Arpo.
- The church of St. Anthony the Abbot; an altarpiece of St. Joa and Anthony, work of Mateo Ponzoni
- church of St. Andrew next to benedictine closter; - a renaissance crucifix with a depiction of Lamentation. - Altarpiece by the Venetian painter A. Novelli from 1765. - Cretan-Byzantine painting of the Virgin Mary with Christ in her arms 16th century, with silver-golden icon frame made by a Venetian 18ct goldsmith. Copy of the Paolo Veneziano polyptych ( original at Bostom National Museum US).
- The church of St. Justine; - altarpiece with a depiction of St. Justine and characters from the Battle of Lepanto from the 17th century by a Flemish painter, Baldasare d’Ana. - King Coloman gift to Rab: enamel cross plates, 12 ct. - another altarpiece with the depiction of Death of St. Joseph, by the Venetian painters’ workshop 16- 17 ct. - Virgin with Christ in her arms and the angels, by a Spanish painter Zuano Buschet 16th century. - sacral collection in period 11-18 ct.
- Church of the Holy Cross; - Virgin with Christ in her arms and the angels painting, Venetian settecento. - Stucco on the sealing work of Clemente ? Giacomo Somazzi 18 ct.
- Church of St. Anthony of Padua; - altarpiece depiction of Virgin with Christ in her arms and the angels by unknown Venetian baroque painter 17ct.
- Portals: Palace Crnota, Palace Nimira, 15 ct works by sculptor Andrija Alessi

Places of interest on the island:

- Santa Eufemia monastery in Kampor: - polyptych, workshop of brothers Antonio and Bartolomeo Vivarini 1458 - tabulatorium - late baroque - lapidarium with different artefacta ( reliefs, sarcofag of Manda Budrisic ...) - Icona "Madonna with a Child" -unknown master/ period - pinacoteca of works by Fra Ambroz Testen ( modern art) - biblioteca, small ethno museum

- St. Peters in Supetarska Draga - benedictine monastery with well preserved romanesque church

- sarcophagus from the 5ct. next to the St. Stephens church in Barbat that also holds a valuable altar crucifix from the 6 ct. BC - one among the 10 oldest ones in Croatia.

Contemporary art

For those of you more into modernart - fine art shows of the resident artists and regular exhibitions of the eminent croatian contemporary artists are held regurarly at the Duke's palace art caffe in the old town of Rab.

Island is also a home to the art group Ulliks which holds regular annual shows for St. Nicolas day and an annula art colony with invited artists from Croatia and abroad.

Every year at the grounds of Suha Punta an art colony where the artists work outdoors.
Invited artists include painters, sculptors and applied artists. Open to visitors.