During Venetian rule, Pag’s citizens were exempt from participation in military campaigns due to the importance of salt production. However, Ivan Petar Kašić waived the exemption and participated in one of the most important battles in history: the Battle of Lepanto in 1571.
We simply do not know precisely how long salt has been produced in Pag. Salt production in the Croatian lands was first mentioned in the book about Adriatic salt pans by Prof. Candide from the university in Naples, published in 1912.
The Church of St. Francis (‘Sveti Frane’ in Croatian) was built in the latter half of the 15th century in the northern part of the old town core. Works on its façade continued until mid-1510s. A monastery next to it belonging to the order of Friars Minor Conventual was dissolved in 1785.
The tradition of lace-making by needle-point has been nurtured in the town of Pag for centuries. Among the products of this special technique, Pag lace is the most valued and was thus registered in the UNESCO world heritage list in 2009.
The Rector’s Palace is located on the main square. It was built in the 15th century and completed under the rule of Rector Toma Zorzi. It has been the centre of town and island administration for centuries.
A small harbour in a naturally sheltered cove on the southern side of the island of Pag that exudes simplicity and authenticity. If you want to withdraw from the hustle and bustle and indulge in the island’s tranquillity, Košljun is the just the place for you. Its exquisite pebble and sand beaches will be appreciated by children and sports-lovers alike.