Ston & Mali Ston (Google Map) are two small beautiful, fortified towns, situated at the point where Peljesac Peninsula joins the mainland, (55 km north-west of Dubrovnik) extending 1.5km between the two, each town is positioned within two different bays, (Malostonski and Mljetski Kanal) north and south, divided by a high peak.
Mali Ston is situated on the Northern side of the Peninsula and due to its natural and unique lake-like bay is world famous for its mussel and oyster growing farms since Roman times. The town has been awarded many prizes and medals at world exhibitions. The lovely picturesque village is still miraculously untouched by the tourist industry and its small collection of top restaurants take pride in its peaceful, unspoiled, relaxed surroundings.
Ston which is larger and more historically important is situated on the southern side. The town is surrounded by a high wall 5 kilometers (about 3 miles) in the shape of a pentagon. Wall has to be the second longest wall in all of Europe, surpassed only by Hadrian's Wall between Scotland and England. The town was strategically positioned to guard its centuries old salt pans which are still being worked today. Ston's beautiful town is steeped in history and its impressive churches and buildings are made up of various architectural styles. The main square, Placa, with its restaurants, quaint cafes and local hospitality creates a most idyllic setting.
Because of Ston's unique position and cultural qualities, especially its natural salt pans, the Republic of Dubrovnik decided to erect a monumental defensive wall in 1358, to protect it from attacks and pillage. Salt was one of the most important sources of the Republics riches at that time. During the first 30 years, the defensive walls were built from one side of the Peninsula to the other, the fortified towns were erected to provide housing for people to guard the borders and work in the salt pans. It was completed in the 15th century. Being 5.5kms long complete with 40 towers and 5 forts, it has been likened to a minature "Great Wall of China". Today, 5 km of wall and 20 towers remain. Amazing panoramic views can be had from the ruins of the Koruna fortress and walls.
For me Ston has special meaning, while we are boating in "Malostonskom Zaljev" with view of Mali Ston, I proposed to my wife. The whole area is just fantastic, unspoiled and lost in time. We have a vacation house in Luka, about 2km far from Ston where a Majority of people make a living off the mariculture, saltworks and small kiwi, orange, mandarine farm and several as wine producers with world famous wines as Postup, Dingac, Plavac. At the evening hour local folks entertain playing traditional french style Bowling discussing who has the best anchovies and red wine. Free sampling of course.
For more info about Ston please visit VTHawaii.com.
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