Proložac. One of the largest municipalities in Imotski Region. But not only that, its natural characteristics and customs place it among the most beautiful too. Its most precious “possession” are people for sure. From burly fellows from Gornji Proložac, Ričice, Bušanje up to those hard-working farmers from Šumet, Lug, Podstanje.
And natural beauties… Spring of the Vrljika river, Two eyes (Dva oka), the purity of water that feeds the local people of Imotski Region. Not to mention Prološko blato and Krenica. The only island in Imotski Region is Manastir in Prološko blato. This area and the surrounding as well are proud remnants of our history, witnessing the Illyrian period up to 300 years long resistance to Ottoman reign. Tombstones, ruins, fortresses, early Christian churches, make only a part of turbulent history that has left its traces in this nice village and its surrounding. The symbol of Proložac is its ancient stone bridge situated in the very centre of Proložac. If only it could talk… who knows what stories it could tell about all those who had passed over its “back”. Ottoman (Turks), Venetians, Austrians, French, half of Europe.
As we said, the largest potential derived from Proložac are his people. Hard-working, noble, diligent, loyal, patriots, god-devoted, humane. Spacious Imotski Plain, vines, vineyards, fields and gardens, all blessed to be in the hands of people from Proložac. Patriotism is another thing to be related with these people, especially in times of need. God-devoted, for always and everywhere being true to their faith. Marian shrine in Green Cathedral (Zelena katedrala), this unique God’s home under the open sky, following by the ancient votive church at the very spring of the Vrljika river – Opačac, St Michael’s cathedral church, church in Bušanje, Gornji Proložac, dozens of chapels scattered at the crossroads and the most important thing – contrition.
And one feature that has been and is still dominant when it comes to personality of the people from Proložac is humaneness. Wherever you come, regardless of the time of day, you’ll be warmly welcomed, honoured in fact. And if you are lucky, maybe one of these people even becomes your friend, and if so, he’ll be a friend for life.
Oh, and just how many cultural events take place here, how much positive energy is there to keep that rich cultural heritage. Live creche from Proložac, unique 15- years-old- event which is held on the very Christmas, actually one-of-its kind connection of God and man, hosting in utterly unusual setting of a dry river bed of Suvaja. Culture has always been indispensable part of their lives. For instance, drama group is one of the best in Croatia, and Proložac is also known for having the only male klapa in Imotski Region. Sport comprises an old football team called Mladost (The Youth) in addition to several champs of Croatia in various sports. And gastronomy – it’s the story on its own. Local gastronomy experts would prepare you anything, from fish stews to meat stews. They have everything. Carps and pickerels from Prološko blato, delminichthys adspersus (ray-finned fish) and trout from the Vrljika river, sheep and cattle from the mountain fields. Vine and wine make a different story as well. This place is endowed with the largest private winery and it is a proud owner of the best indigenous sort of kujunđuša. If you want to enjoy this gorgeous nature and exquisite cuisine of the first eco-village in Imotski Region, come to Gornji Proložac.
And what is there more to say about Proložac? Maybe only write five words. Small place of grand soul.
