Viganj is easiest to describe as a center of sporting activity in Peljesac. If you have an interest in windsurfing then Viganj is a place for you.
We are proud that far back in 1989. and in 2013. Viganj hosted a World Windsurfing Championships, and in 1990. the European Championship.
Of course windsurfing is not everything that Viganj offers.
Viganj covers a large bay, from the Cape of St. Liberan in the South all the way to Cape of St. John in the West. Cape of St. Liberal (or beach Ponta) today is a major point for all surfers who visit Viganj. In 18th century the church of St. Liberan was built on this cape and today presents one of the "trademarks" of Viganj.
Cape of St. John in the West represents the end of Pelješac channel. The church of St. John on top of the hill, offers a unique view on the channel and sunsets. The church was first mentioned in 14th century but it is probably much older. Today it is surrounded with vineyards and olive trees.
Dominican monastery and Church Our Lady of the Rosary dominate the central part of Viganj. It was build 1671. and it is one of the most beautiful monasteries on the Peninsula with its inside garden. The building that was in those days in ruins (except the church) was sold 1910. to the people of Viganj. Inside they organized a 4 grade school, kindergarten, cultural center, library and a restaurant. Today the Monastery is a cultural center where all the cultural events are taking place.
On the Northeast side of Viganj you can enjoy the view on St. Eliah (961 m). Mount St. Eliah (Ilija) was sometimes called Perun hill by Slavic god of thunder, and Monte Vipers (Snake Hill). From the top you can enjoy a spectacular view of Dalmatia with its countless islands and the mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
On this side of the peninsula lies also the protected archaeological area of Nakovana - Plateau west of Viganj continuously inhabited for more than 8000 years. Archaeological evidence tells us that in the Neolithic here lived first farmers in Europe that have been oriented to the sea and even communicate with the maritime routes to remote islands north of Sicily.
In ancient times Nakovana was one of the most powerful Illyrian centers in southern Dalmatia, from which the queen Teuta ruled her kingdom. Unfortunately over time not much has left of remains of fortress "GRAD" from where Queen Teuta ruled southern Dalmatia.
If you would like to climb the top of St. Eliah accompanied by licensed guide or take a walk through history of Viganj and Nakovana, please contact us. |
