Since 1883, HGD Sveta Cecilija has stood as the guardian of Korčula's most treasured ritual. While the fierce cadence of the Moreška sword dance once echoed across the entire Mediterranean, today it is performed here only, on this island, by the sons of Korčula. Iron swords, archaic verse, and seven battles that have not changed in centuries. Come witness it.
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Four moments that brought a Spanish ritual of mock combat to a Korčulan stone courtyard — and kept it there.
The earliest recorded Moreška-style performance takes place in Lérida, commemorating the Christian capture of Aragon. A ritual of mock combat between two armies — one that will travel the Mediterranean for centuries before finding its final home.
A town journal entry dated 7 March 1666 records a Moreška performance during carnival. The dance has already taken root. While similar traditions fade across Dalmatia, Korčula holds on — and never lets go.
Local citizens establish the Korčula Singing Society St. Cecily. Its founding statutes declare a mission to "ennoble the hearts of local youth" and defend Croatian language, song, and identity. The institutional home of Moreška is born.
Following Croatia's declaration of independence, HGD Sveta Cecilija is officially re-established under its original name and mission. The society returns to its roots: preserving the Moreška and cultivating every dimension of Korčulan cultural life.
The earliest recorded Moreška-style performance takes place in Lérida, commemorating the Christian capture of Aragon. A ritual of mock combat between two armies — one that will travel the Mediterranean for centuries before finding its final home.
A town journal entry dated 7 March 1666 records a Moreška performance during carnival. The dance has already taken root. While similar traditions fade across Dalmatia, Korčula holds on — and never lets go.
Local citizens establish the Korčula Singing Society St. Cecily. Its founding statutes declare a mission to "ennoble the hearts of local youth" and defend Croatian language, song, and identity. The institutional home of Moreška is born.
Following Croatia's declaration of independence, HGD Sveta Cecilija is officially re-established under its original name and mission. The society returns to its roots: preserving the Moreška and cultivating every dimension of Korčulan cultural life.
Two ways to bring Korčula's living heritage closer — a full private staging, or an intimate behind-the-scenes encounter.
A full private performance for groups, at the Summer Cinema or Centar za kulturu Korčula.
An intimate educational encounter with the costumes, swords, and dialogue. Min. 5 people.
For general enquiries, private bookings, press, or anything else — we'd love to hear from you. info@moreska.eu
