Known since antiquity, the name of Korčula is derived from the ancient Greek description of its abundant Pine forests which still cover much of the island and in many places running down to the sea onto a margin of white stone for which the Island has been famed from time immemorial.

The sixth largest of the Croatian Islands being 20 miles (32 km) Long and on average width of 4-5 miles (7-8 km) it has a population of approximately 17,500 it is large enough to have established its not only its own local economy but also its own culture, myths and folklore.

Stone quarried and dressed in Korčula was widely exported and used in many of the major cities around the Mediterranean including Venice and the palaces of Dubrovnik, while its stonemasons travelled all over the region plying their skills in the buildings for which it is famous and not least in the town of Korčula itself.

All of this has left its impact on the towns, architecture, culture and folklore. The latter in particular is often based on the exploits of the population in the defence of their island. This together with the numerous churches large and small, often beautiful and containing works of art provides a rich source of interest for visitors.

The two principal coastal towns are Vela Luka at the extreme western end and Korčula in the east are joined by the main central island road, while all around the coast there are numerous fishing and small resort villages.