# Korčula > island of Croatia, located in the Adriatic Sea **Wikidata**: [Q13288](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q13288) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korčula) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kor-ula ## Summary Korčula is an island in Croatia located in the Adriatic Sea. It is part of the country's extensive coastline and is known for its cultural heritage, historical towns, and viticultural contributions. ## Key Facts - **Location**: Situated in the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia. - **Region**: Part of Dubrovnik-Neretva County, a region known for its Dalmatian cultural identity. - **Coordinates**: Latitude 42.95, Longitude 16.9. - **Website**: [korcula.hr](http://www.korcula.hr/) - **Notable Geographic Feature**: Separated from the mainland by the Korčula Channel, a strait in Croatia. - **Agricultural Significance**: Home to Pošip, a grape variety used in regional winemaking. - **Cultural Identity**: Features a historic town, often associated with Marco Polo due to local legend. - **Administrative Context**: Governed as part of Croatia, a country that declared independence on June 25, 1991. ## FAQs ### What is Korčula known for? Korčula is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical architecture, and association with the grape variety Pošip. It is also linked to the legend of Marco Polo, who is believed to have been born there. ### Where is Korčula located? Korčula is located in the Adriatic Sea, within the borders of Croatia. It is part of the Dubrovnik-Neretva County and is accessible via the Korčula Channel. ### What is the Korčula Channel? The Korčula Channel is a strait in Croatia that separates the island of Korčula from the mainland. It plays a key role in the island's geographic and maritime identity. ### What is the significance of Pošip? Pošip is a white grape variety native to the Adriatic islands of Croatia, particularly associated with Korčula. It is used to produce high-quality local wines and is a symbol of the region's viticultural heritage. ### Is Korčula connected to any historical figures? Yes, Korčula is traditionally linked to Marco Polo, the explorer, due to local legend suggesting he was born on the island. ## Why It Matters Korčula holds cultural, historical, and geographic significance as one of Croatia's prominent Adriatic islands. Its association with viticulture, particularly the Pošip grape, contributes to the regional economy and identity. The island also plays a role in Croatian heritage through its connection to historical figures and its well-preserved medieval towns. As part of Croatia’s over 1,000 islands, Korčula contributes to the country’s unique coastal geography and tourism appeal. ## Notable For - **Cultural Heritage**: Home to one of the best-preserved medieval town layouts in the Mediterranean. - **Wine Production**: Associated with the Pošip grape, a native variety used in high-quality local wines. - **Historical Legend**: Believed to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, according to local tradition. - **Natural Geography**: Located in the Korčula Channel, a key maritime passage in southern Dalmatia. - **Tourism**: A destination for cultural and eco-tourism, with access to pristine Adriatic landscapes. ## Body ### Geography and Location Korčula is an island in the Adriatic Sea, part of Croatia’s extensive archipelago. It lies within the **Dubrovnik-Neretva County**, a region known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. The island is separated from the mainland by the **Korčula Channel**, a strait that contributes to its distinct geographic identity. The island's coordinates are **latitude 42.95** and **longitude 16.9**, placing it in the southern Dalmatian region. ### Cultural and Historical Significance Korčula is known for its well-preserved medieval town, often associated with the **legend of Marco Polo**, who is believed to have been born there. The town's architecture reflects centuries of Mediterranean influence, making it a key site for cultural tourism. The island also plays a role in Croatian national identity, being part of the country that declared independence on **June 25, 1991**. ### Viticulture and Agriculture The island is notable for its association with the **Pošip grape**, a white variety native to the Adriatic islands. Pošip is cultivated in limited quantities and is used to produce high-quality local wines, contributing to the island’s agricultural economy. The grape is a symbol of the region’s viticultural heritage and is integral to local winemaking traditions. ### Administrative and Political Context As part of **Croatia**, Korčula falls under the jurisdiction of a sovereign state that became independent in 1991. Croatia is a member of the **European Union** (since 2013), **NATO** (since 2009), and the **United Nations** (since 1992). The country adopted the **Euro** as its currency on **January 1, 2023**, aligning its economy with broader European standards. ### Tourism and Natural Features Korčula is a destination for **cultural and eco-tourism**, offering visitors access to its historic towns, vineyards, and pristine Adriatic landscapes. The island’s natural beauty, combined with its historical significance, makes it a key part of Croatia’s tourism industry, which is a major economic driver for the country. ### Related Entities - **Croatia**: The sovereign state in which Korčula is located, declared independence on June 25, 1991. - **Korčula Channel**: A strait separating the island from the mainland, key to its maritime access. - **Pošip**: A grape variety native to the island, used in local winemaking. - **Dubrovnik-Neretva County**: The administrative region encompassing Korčula. - **Marco Polo**: Explorer traditionally linked to Korčula through local legend. ### Digital Presence Korčula maintains an official website at [korcula.hr](http://www.korcula.hr/), providing information on tourism, local culture, and administrative services. The site serves as a digital gateway to the island’s heritage and current initiatives. ### Conclusion Korčula is a significant cultural and geographic landmark in Croatia, known for its historical towns, viticultural contributions, and association with the Pošip grape. Its connection to the Marco Polo legend and its role in the Adriatic’s island-rich landscape underscore its importance in Croatian heritage. The island’s natural beauty and preserved medieval character make it a vital part of the country’s tourism and cultural identity. ## References 1. archINFORM 2. Virtual International Authority File 3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 4. GeoNames 5. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php) 6. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File 7. [Bibliography of the History of the Czech Lands](https://biblio.hiu.cas.cz/records/c984561c-6e21-4dba-95a9-b9988abc9bb1)