Island Svetac: Home of the Pirate Queen Teuta and Rare Black Coral

Croatia hosts at least 1000 islands, most of which are inhabited with untapped potential. These islands are the hidden treasures of this country, and of Europe as a whole. One such island is the Island Svetac, located on the Croatian Adriatic at a distance of 26 Kilometers from Komiza, neighbored by other islands such as Jabuka, Brusnik and Kamik just to name a few. This hidden gem of Croatia is rich in touristic activities that will keep you entertained throughout your stay.

History of the Island

Svetac is an island that has so much history to tell. Though it is currently uninhabited, its population was 51 during the 1951 census, but all its inhabitants are now deceased; the last of them died in 2000. There have been remains of Byzantine origin such as the beautiful old stone houses discovered, which prove that there was some human activity at some time in its lifetime.

In addition to this, Island Svetac is believed to have been home to the pirate Queen Teuta. It is believed that she hosted a different man in bed every night and had them thrown off a cliff in the morning. It is also said that there is a treasure of gold coins and expensive jewelry that belonged to Queen Teuta, buried somewhere within this island, although it is yet to be discovered and unearthed. The crumbling walls of Queen Teuta's city, an ancient fortification, are also visible at the highest point of this island.

Size of the Island

This mysterious Croatian Island has an area of 4.2 square Kilometers and its highest peak measures 311 meters in height. A very steep coastline defines this land, with a single docking harbor at Povlov Buk. It offers a great site for hikes and nature walks. Its abandoned vineyards and walking trails will give you a unique touch of nature as you climb to the highest peak of this island. From here, you'll have a beautiful undistracted view of the beautiful Adriatic Sea, the horizon, and the nearby volcanic islands of Jabuka and Brusnik.

Diving and Rare Black Coral

Croatia has magnificent weather conditions, enabling you to take part in a number of fun activities. Island Svetac has rare black coral, not found anywhere else in this region, thus making it a unique diving spot. However, take great care when diving, because of treacherous rocks found below the surface of the water, in places you least expect.

When diving, you could get lucky enough to see some monk seals, which visit the island from time to time, even after moving from the undersea caves like Puhera (their former habitats) to neighboring Greece and Turkey. Svetac's northern cliff offers a great diving spot due to the presence of quite a number of underwater caves such as Puhera and Corno Ploca- a thrilling experience. Its waters are quite rough given the huge waves, so take care when docking your vessels.

Travelling Around

Most of Croatia's islands are inhabited and not fully developed in terms of infrastructure; Island Svetac is no exception. The only means to access this island is by water. From Split, you may board a ferry to Vis Island and take a bus or motorbike to the town of Komiza. From there, you can either take a boat to Svetac or charter one for an even more exciting experience. You may also choose to book a hotel at Komiza and await some planned cruises and tours for their visitors.

Island Svetac is one place you would never want to miss visiting. With its serenity, peace, and untouched beauty, this island has so much potential to turn into the greatest tourism hub in Europe. Whether you swim, sunbathe on its rocky beaches, or scuba dive into its mysterious underwater caves, it’ll be an experience you will never ever forget.

Further Reading

Here Be Dragons (or Rockmovers)

The Picasso Triggerfish

Unicorns Do Exist

Christmas Tree Worms