Situated within the historic streets of Korčula, the Sfida Residence stands as a breathtaking blend of historical charm and modern luxury. Located in the northern part of the old town, this villa offers a unique escape that celebrates both the storied past and contemporary comforts of Korčula, an island renowned as the birthplace of the legendary 13th-century explorer Marco Polo.

Timeless Gem – Sfida Residence

The history of the Sfida Residence is as fascinating as the island itself. This enchanting villa is part of a larger complex that has evolved over centuries, with decorative details dating back to the 16th century. Originally connected to a palace that extended south towards the cathedral, it follows the traditional layout of Korčula's city palaces: utility spaces on the ground floor, lavish salons on the first floor, and private rooms and kitchens on the upper floors.

Despite the spatial constraints of the old city, privileged families enjoyed inner courtyards and built characteristic bridges over streets due to marital ties with neighboring families. These bridges, regulated by statutes, allowed for preserved street communication while adding to the city's architectural beauty. Epidemics and other calamities often led to the abandonment of houses, creating "casamenta"—roofless ruins that became common throughout Korčula. In 1409, to tackle this issue, the municipality offered ownership of these ruins to anyone willing to restore them, leading to a rejuvenation of the city's appearance.

The building that now houses Sfida Residence experienced this journey from a medieval residential structure to an abandoned ruin and finally to a beautifully restored villa. The current owners, connected to a neighboring family who owned part of the complex, have preserved the structural integrity and historical elements of the original building, including a charming courtyard to the east.

Testament to Korčula's Rich Heritage

The name "Sfida" holds a deep cultural significance. Derived from the Italian word for challenge or resistance, it also relates to the traditional chivalric game Moreška. This 12th-century performance, depicting a battle between Christian and Moorish soldiers, symbolizes the struggle between good and evil. Although Moreška was once popular throughout the Mediterranean, it is now uniquely preserved in Korčula, forming an essential part of the island's cultural identity. Quite a similar story with the Sfida Residence itself, don't you think? Its historical depth is a testament to Korčula's rich heritage. The recent renovation, completed in 2024, carefully balanced the preservation of original construction elements with the introduction of contemporary touches, offering a perfect blend of old and new.

Previously a family summer retreat, the Sfida Residence is now available for guests seeking luxury accommodation. The villa offers 80 square meters of living space spread over two floors. The first floor includes a spacious living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a dining area. Upstairs, two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms offer stunning views of the Pelješac Channel. Custom-made ribbed glass showers provide privacy and elegance, while modern materials such as terrazzo tiles and soft white linen curtains enhance the unique charm of the bedrooms.

Throughout the residence, stone walls and reliefs, including preserved original stone basins, add warmth and historical authenticity. Stone reliefs featuring the fleur-de-lys, a symbol of nobility and purity, further enrich the villa's character. Architect Tina Biloglav of the "Tinel" studio designed the interior to highlight the value of antiquity with modern details. The stainless steel kitchen, neutral tones, and a blend of stone and wood create a serene Mediterranean ambiance, perfect for a luxurious retreat.

Sunlight streaming through the narrow stone streets adds a magical touch to the dining area, where the combination of cold stainless steel and warm wood, accented by terracotta pendant lights, completes the inviting atmosphere. Accommodating up to four guests, the residence is equipped with air conditioning and underfloor heating, making it suitable for year-round stays.

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If you want to book your stay in this timeless gem you can do it via Booking.com, Airbnb.com or directly via email.

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