Pag lace

Since, once upon a time, there was nothing better for the women of Pag to do than keep an eye on a few sheep, watch salt dry and wait for hubby to come home with the day’s catch, they kept idle thumbs at bay by lace-making. Over the centuries they evolved a style so ethereal that it is considered one of Croatia’s most highly prized products.

Hours of work goes into a tiny piece, so it is quite expensive – expect to pay from 200kn for a small piece direct from the lacemaker, or around 400kn for a mounted example from a Zadar gallery (try the Lik gallery, see Galleries). But it is a beautiful memento of your holiday, and your purchase supports a vital cottage industry.