Komiža

On the west coast of the island of Vis, sitting in the large Bay of Komiza is a town sharing the bay's name. Some 1,500 people are still living in this tranquil harbor. After the main town of "Vis", Komiza is the second largest settlement on the island of Vis. There is a regular catamaran connection running between Split and Komiza. There is also a car ferry that operates several times a day to the island's main city of Vis about 10 km away.

Characteristic of the village is the Church of Saint Nicola, including its eponymous monastery. Above Komiza, this sacred complex enthrones the small hill. The Romanesque church was built together with the adjacent monastery in the 12th century by Benedictine monks. As the community grew, monastery and church had to be enlarged again and again, until the church could boast a total of 5 naves in the 15th century. A star-shaped defensive wall, most commonly called a “pattern”, was built around the monastery in the 17th century for defensive purposes. Some of this wall's remains can still be seen today.

Additional protection should have been provided by the castle immediately located by the sea and around which the inhabitants settled over time. The long-standing tradition of the fishery industry was established as people began to settle here. In its heyday, there were seven fish factories operating in Komiza.
Komiza is especially known for using the legendary Gajeta Falkusa, a wooden sailing ship that was optimized for the special needs of the local fishermen. Due to its construction, it was a very fast and yet, on the other hand, very seaworthy ship. It was, thus, greatly suitable for the sometimes very long trips.

Komiza is a small but lively town, which can be best explored on a leisurely tour. Afterwards, you can strengthen up in one of the taverns and restaurants, or relax on the beach. In the summer months, many cultural events, as elsewhere, take place in Komiza. Of particular note here is the traditional Fisherman's Night, which annually takes place on the first Saturday in August, as well as various boat shows.