Unearth Tales Hidden from the Web, shared by the Ocean-Worn Sailor Teo Tomić, on Šolta Island
On the picturesque Croatian island of Šolta, retirement years have been transformed into a treasure trove of stories by local legend Teo Tomić. A man known for his unique and lesser-known narratives about the island's history and life, Tomić offers visitors an authentic, intimate glimpse into Šolta's rich cultural heritage[1].
Tomic's boat tours, which have been a staple of his retirement since 1988, take four to five people on a voyage through the island's captivating history[2]. The journey begins in Rogač, where Tomić, often crowned as a "salty sea dog" storyteller, regales his guests with tales that bring the island's character and heritage vividly to life[1].
One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to Piškera Bay, home to Emperor Diocletian's sunken fishponds and medicinal mud that has been utilised by locals for generations[3]. Tomić's stories weave in the history of the Roman Emperor's presence on the island, adding a fascinating layer to the bay's natural allure.
The tour also delves into Šolta's connection with the sea and nature, revealing its biodiversity and traditional fishing practices. Tomić shares anecdotes about the island's past, including everyday life, folklore, and maritime traditions that shaped Šolta’s identity[1].
In Vallis surda (Gluha uvala), a safe anchorage for ships, Tomić shares tales of a Croatian writer whose works were read by Thomas Moore, once a resident of the bay[4]. The island's history is further enriched by stories about the Roman villas on the Croatian coast and islands, adding a touch of ancient grandeur to the island's narrative.
Throughout the tour, Tomić imparts knowledge about the winds that affect the Croatian coast, carob, and the surrounding landscape[5]. An intriguing fact shared during the tour is that each spike on a carob is identical in size and was once used to measure diamonds[6].
Tomic's stories, titled "A Little Story of the Sea/Mala priča o moru," contain lesser-known details that enrich the visitor's understanding of the island[7]. His tales, passed down through generations, preserve the island’s cultural memory beyond commonly available historical accounts, making for a deeper and more immersive experience of Šolta.
In the modern age where information is easily accessible, storytelling continues to be appreciated. Teo Tomić is a fantastic ambassador for the craft, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable journey through the lesser-known stories of Šolta Island.
During Tomić's boat tours, he shares captivating stories not only about Šolta's history but also its connection with home-and-garden practices, such as the use of medicinal mud in Piškera Bay. Moreover, sports enthusiasts might find intriguing tales about traditional fishing practices and the island's biodiversity, adding a unique twist to their travel experiences, showcasing that Teo Tomić's narratives extend beyond lifestyle to encompass varied aspects of life on the island.
