Old and new,
new and old
When does it begin
this story begging to be told
Ancient history
three millennia of war
Many lost in battle
hear their cries roar
This land
must have been mystical
For such men to die
for reasons mythical
Protected by God
driven by its people
In the midst of a hay stack
they have found the magic needle
Hrvatska, the secret gem
sought by many
Bearing the fruits of life
envy of its plenty
Ruin upon ruin
we climb its history
Taking for granted
all of her mystery
Who lay that stone
underneath your feet?
Do you have any idea of his gains
of his absolute defeats?
Blood, sweat and tears
birthed these cities
No lack of story
endless synchronicities
Every man and woman
and child bind
Brought something here
left something behind
So when you walk upon the stone
do not take for granted
Something new to you
is something deeply enchanted
Their energy lingers
those who built, those who defended
And those who carried on
far beyond comprehended.
- Katarina Bučić
When you visit Croatia as a tourist it is easy to get wrapped up in all the awe. At which beach will you swim today? Where are you going to wine and dine this evening? Are there any cool shows happening tonight? Only when I began to live like a local in Croatia did I really begin to become aware of my surroundings.
Every time I walk through an old city, I think about its history, and all of the people who have shared these same streets with me. Who is the man who worked his hands to the bone chipping away at the stone that created these cobblestone streets? These walls that we now take photos along were built to protect, to keep its people in and its enemies out. These ports that we use as docking points to take us on scuba-diving excursions and island tours were once battle zones and for the transport of goods to keep its people alive.
It is a very interesting perspective to keep in mind when exploring these historical places. Everything has been catered to the tourist's convenience and experience, but all this architecture served a very different purpose at one point and not very long ago, might I add. When I explore Croatia, I am reminded why this secret gem was sought after for millennia. This is a country built out of love and purpose. Croatia recognizes its beauty and knows it is undoubtedly magical. It is up to us to hold that same knowing and remember where she began and support where she is headed.
- Katarina Bučić
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