Omiš

During the Middle Ages, Omiš was notorious for the Omis Pirates, who, using specially built ships called the "Sagittae" (Arrow), ruled the Adriatic Sea for over three hundred years. 

Despite numerous war alliances against Omis, including even the crusade against Omiš declared by the Pope himself, it was not until 1444 that Venice succeeded in ending centuries of Omis' domination of the Adriatic. Venice succeeded thanks to the growing Turkish threat and the rule of the whole of Dalmatia, except for the cities of Dubrovnik and Omiš. The danger from the Turks was growing, but the Turks never conquered Omiš. 

Due to constant threats from land and sea, the fortresses of Starigrad (Fortica), Peovica (Mirabela) and Viseć were built, and the city is surrounded by high walls. In the Priko area is the most important monument in Omis, the Church of St. Peter, built in the 10th century.

Today, Omiš is the center of the tourist riviera of exceptional beauty located in the heart of the Adriatic and the center of Croatian active tourism.

Omiš is an ideal place for a recreational holiday. Whether you are a fan of diving, windsurfing, rafting or kayaking, hiking, free climbing, paragliding, cycling or boating, this ancient pirate sanctuary offers it all in beautiful natural surroundings.

The center of the Omiš Cultural Summer belongs to the "Festival of Dalmatian Klapa", which has existed since 1967. The festival of Dalmatian klapa has also contributed to nurturing the culture of folk singing, and klapas that have achieved the best results at Omiš festivals have become appreciated throughout Europe at festivals of this kind. The klapa song is based on a capella singing, and the verse connects all the existence of the life of Dalmatian fishermen and farmers through the difficult centuries.

Welcome to Omiš - the city of pirates!