Who would have thought that such a simple and seemingly mundane ingredient as salt could wield such immense power and influence throughout history? From preserving food to seasoning meals, salt has been a fundamental part of human civilization for centuries. But beyond its culinary significance, there exist fascinating tales of salt shaping the destinies of nations and sparking economic booms.

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One place where the captivating history of salt comes to life is in the town of Ston, nestled along the picturesque Dalmatian coast. This unassuming town, with its quaint charm and idyllic surroundings, holds a secret of historical importance - its salt pans. These salt pans, dating back to ancient times, have played a crucial role in shaping the region's past, turning Ston into a hub of salt production and a strategic point of interest for various powers throughout the ages.

The Dance of the Salt Pans

Archaeological evidence suggests that salt production in this region can be traced all the way back to the Roman era when Ston was known as "Stagnum," which translates to "still water." However, it was in the year 1333 when Ston's destiny took a significant turn. Dubrovnik, already a thriving trading center, recognized the immense economic potential of the Pelješac peninsula, where Ston is situated, and decided to acquire it for its valuable salt reserves. This strategic decision marked the beginning of a glorious chapter in Ston's history. Understanding the strategic importance of the salt pans, Dubrovnik wasted no time in securing its newly acquired treasure. To safeguard salt production and ensure a steady income stream, the city built an impressive seven-kilometer-long massive stone wall, which continues to awe visitors to this day, earning the title of "European Wall of China." This ambitious endeavor made perfect sense, as salt soon became one of Dubrovnik's primary sources of revenue, contributing up to a third of the city's income during its heyday. Game of Thrones fans will love the fact that some scenes of this popular show were filmed in Ston. Namely, the town represented the King's Landing as well as some of the Eyrie.

As you wander through the salt pans, you'll be greeted by a mesmerizing dance of reflections – the sun's warm rays bouncing off the shimmering, crystalline waters. This intricate system of shallow salt ponds creates a stunning mosaic that varies in colors from deep blues to brilliant whites, presenting an awe-inspiring sight you won't soon forget.

The Age-Old Tradition of Salt Production

The method of salt production remains largely unchanged since medieval times, adding a touch of timelessness to the landscape. Seawater from the Adriatic is carefully channeled into the shallow basins, where it undergoes a natural evaporation process. Over time, the water evaporates, leaving behind pure sea salt that is then carefully harvested by skilled workers. 

A Taste of Ston's Salt

If you decide to visit Ston and its salt pans, you'll have the unique opportunity to savor the locally produced salt, and let us tell you, it's no ordinary seasoning. The salt from these saltworks is not only prized for its purity but also for its exquisite taste and mineral richness. Food enthusiasts and chefs alike rave about its ability to elevate even the simplest dishes, adding a burst of flavor that is unrivaled ( when there definitely try out Ston oysters - a gastronomic gem!).

Don't forget to take home a small bag of this "white gold" as a delightful souvenir, a reminder of your unforgettable journey through Ston's salt-making tradition.

Festival of Salt: Celebrating a Rich Heritage

How about celebrating the salt and its rich heritage? From August 20th to September 20th, you will have the opportunity to be part of the Festival of Salt. The festival pays homage to the region's salt-producing heritage and offers a rich program of events and activities. You can enjoy photography and art exhibitions, Art Park workshops for children, concerts, vibrant entertainment, and exceptional gastronomic experiences. Additionally, from August 24th to 28th, the festival hosts the traditional EKO PLACA, featuring eco-producers across Croatia.