Barkajoli of Zadar

This Christmas Eve we had a beautiful day and we spent it in Zadar. Walking by the sea, I took some images of local barkajoli boatmen.

In the heart of the Adriatic, the city of Zadar in Croatia harbors a unique and enduring tradition: the Barkarijoli. This 800-year-old practice is more than just a mode of transportation; but a living testament to Zadar’s rich heritage.

Tradition of Barkajoli

The Barkajoli are traditional boatmen, whose history dates back to the 14th century. According to some, the tradition is as old as the city itself as people always needed to get to the “mainland.” For generations, this noble profession has been passed down from father to son, preserving not just a family legacy but also an essential aspect of Zadar’s communal life. These boatmen navigate the short trip – only 71 meters – between the Zadar peninsula and the mainland, providing a vital link for both locals and tourists. The alternative is to walk around the harbor to Zadar bridge to get to the peninsula.

The City is Changing

While the backdrop of this unique trip has changed over the centuries, it is still the same unique tradition.

The Barkajoli of Zadar remains one of the iconic symbols of the city of Zadar. For eight centuries, with small rowboats, they have connected the two ends of the city’s port in all weather conditions, thereby saving time for their loyal passengers. This family tradition has been passed down from generation to generation in several families for centuries, managing to survive despite the challenges of modern times. It is said that being in Zadar without taking a ride with the Barkajoli would be like not experiencing Zadar at all.

In the past, there were many more Barkajoli than today, especially during World War I. At that time, even two women rowed the boats while their husbands were at the front. The Barkajoli take pride in their work, which is inherited from generation to generation. They serve as both taxi drivers and friends to their passengers, offering their services throughout the year. It’s easier in the summer when tourists flock to the city and the weather is pleasant, but their frostbitten hands in winter row sometimes for just a single passenger per shift.

Or it can be nice even on a lovely December day like today.