Knight’s game of Moreška

Moreška is a martial swordsman’s dance that has been played on Korčula since 1571. Moreška is not originally from Korčula, but came to these areas from Spain, via Dubrovnik. The dance is performed by two groups of young men called “moreskanat’s” – white ones dressed in red and black ones in black uniforms. They are led by kings fighting for Bula, the White King‘s fiancée who was kidnapped by the black Moro king.

The first part of the dance is characterized by a short dramatic action and the second by a fierce sword fight between two armies. White wins and Bula is returned to the white king. The dance accompanied by a brass band takes place in seven figures or “kolapa”, where the tempo quickens and the blows of the swords become more and more fierce…

The people of Korčula are very proud but also sensitive about Moreška, which is why it is said: “You’re not a man if you don’t know how to play Moreška,” and  “If you didn’t watch Moreška, you have never been on Korčula.” The knightly game Moreška is danced only on Korčula and is included in the protected intangible cultural and historical heritage.

You can watch Moreška live from June 1. until 28.9.2023, and the ticket price is 20 euros for adults and 10 euros for children. Find more information at this link.