Marco Polo, Marco Polo!

Sunday, September 29, 2024

Korčula, Croatia

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After a very choppy sail, we docked at the Korčula marina for the night, a dinner ashore and a morning tour of the old town led by an elegant, knowledgeable guide. She was delightful and gave us a terrific understanding of the colorful history and the fantastic buildings, including famous steps. The famous steps in Korčula are part of a medieval construction dating back to the 14th century. Originally, the old town of Korčula was accessed via a wooden drawbridge, but in the mid-18th century the stone staircase replaced the drawbridge as the main entrance to the town.

Marco Polo embarked on his journey from Venice in 1271 with his father and uncle, traveling overland through the Middle East and along the Silk Road. They crossed deserts and mountains, eventually reaching Kublai Khan’s court in China in 1275. Marco served the Khan and explored various regions of China for 17 years. In 1295, they returned to Venice via a sea route through Southeast Asia and India. His experiences were documented in “The Travels of Marco Polo,” providing Europeans with a detailed look into Asian cultures and the wealth of the Mongol Empire, significantly influencing East-West relations.

In Korčula, by the Adriatic Sea, A tale of Marco Polo’s birth, you see. Venetian roots or island’s claim, Both vie for the explorer’s name.

Through ancient streets and coastal air, His legend whispers everywhere. A house, a museum, stories told, Of journeys vast and treasures bold.

Whether Venice or Korčula’s shore, His spirit roams forevermore. Marco Polo, traveler grand, His legacy in every land.

Bill Mosher, “ I just wanna get stoned”, at the Medieval place criminals are subjected to public ridicule and punishment.

Our neighbor in Korčula. Pretty sexy, but not as beautiful and efficient as our yacht.