Krapanj Island near Brodarica

Krapanj Island near Brodarica is the smallest and lowest inhabited island in the Adriatic, situated just 300 meters off the coast, south of Šibenik. If you rent accommodation in Brodarica, you can easily reach Krapanj with a short boat ride. Regular boat lines connect the island to the mainland, offering visitors convenient access and the opportunity to explore this unique island rich in history and tradition. The island was settled in the 15th century when a nobleman from Šibenik, Toma Jurić, purchased Krapanj in 1436 to build a Franciscan monastery. The monastery and the Church of the Holy Cross were completed in 1523. In the late 17th century, the Franciscans introduced the tradition of diving and sea sponge harvesting, which became the primary source of income for many island families. Krapanj Island near Brodarica is known as the Island of Sponges even today, and its authenticity and preserved traditions continue to attract visitors from around the world.