National Geographic Day Tour: Croatian Threads - Preserving Traditions through Textiles
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Port
Dubrovnik, Croatia
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Activity Level
Easy Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$200
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5¼ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Start your tour with a ride along a scenic Adriatic road to the verdant valley of Konavle. Upon arriving in the village of Cilipi, a hub of local culture, you’ll visit the Konavle Heritage Museum. Here, you’ll listen as curators share the history and social significance of their national costume, highlighting its ties to the region's Konavle embroidery art form.
National Geographic travelers will enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes visit to AR Atelier, where you’ll meet Antonia Ruskovic, a talented academic painter, culture preservationist, and the founder of AR Atelier. Through her social work and studies, she trains young residents in the cultural significance and techniques of traditional costumes, ensuring these age-old skills are not lost to future generations.
Antonia's commitment extends to sustainable practices, as she breeds silkworms, acquired through partnerships with local NGOs, to produce special silk essential for authentic costumes. This dedication starkly contrasts with today’s fast fashion trends, which often prioritize speed over quality, contributing to significant environmental damage.
After your immersive experience, you’ll head to a protected area of the River Ljuta to visit a local watermill owned by Antonia’s cousin. This mill plays a crucial role in the production of wool thread and felt needed for completing traditional costumes. Enjoy a moment of relaxation by the river, savoring snacks from local home estates and tasting locally produced wine .