Traditional construction in Dalmatia

In some areas of Dalmatia, there are still structures that exemplify the skill of self-taught stonemasons. These craftsmen constructed buildings to meet the needs of their families and communities, using natural resources and materials from the local environment. Traditional construction methods were based on local resources and ecological principles, and these techniques, materials, and functionality have been preserved over the centuries, giving a unique character to the houses and rural settlements.

This tradition continued until World War II, after which there was a shift away from traditional knowledge and building skills. The social climate at that time did not embrace traditional values, and urbanization, industrialization, and electrification were seen as the way forward. As a result, the local people themselves started to dismantle the old structures and construct new ones.