Dancing has always been an integral part of national folklore here, from the plains of Slavonia to the seas of Dalmatia and everywhere in between. There are many special dances that are specific to different regions, featuring beautiful moves that echo the rhythms of the past and pay homage to generations of flow. These dances are more than just dances; they are love letters to history and culture in this marvellous nation. Here are some of the most important.
Linđo
Linđo is often the first that jumps to mind when discussing Croatia’s traditional dances. It is primarily seen in and around Dubrovnik, particularly at any celebration. What kind of celebration? Any celebration, it doesn’t matter, you’re probably going to see the Linđo being performed. The name is thought to come from Nikola Lale, an iconic dance leader from Župa Dubrovačka informally known as Linđo, and the dance is characterised by energetic jumping and turning, all dictated by the stamping of the dance master. The dance master plays a lijerica throughout, a three-stringed bowed instrument shaped like a pear. Men usually wear white shirts, red belts, and dark trousers, while the ladies are dressed to the nines in beautiful dresses.
Linđo Folk Ensemble Archives
Nijemo kolo
From the loud Linđo to something altogether more peaceful. Nijemo kolo loosely means “silent wheel,” and while the tapping of feet and the swaying of bodies provide a natural ambience, the lack of music helps this dance stand out. The dance is an integral part of history and culture in the Dalmatian hinterland, where it is still seen at village events today. There is an intensity to the dance that is accentuated by the lack of music, as dancers keep rhythm with their steps and the occasional yelp. As the name suggests, the dance is performed in a circle, and the participants move in a dizzying sequence of moves that will baffle the first-time viewer. The entire thing is defined by energy and requires intense concentration and coordination from the dancers. It is a truly unique experience. Understandably, UNESCO has awarded the dance a position on its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Slavonian kolo
Another spectacular circle dance, the Slavonian kolo replicates the intensity of Nijemo kolo but with added colour and a cacophony of sounds. Slavonia is famous for its never-ending plains, and this traditional dance can be found all across the region. There’s definitely music here, most often highlighted by the tamburica, a long-necked lute-type instrument played in this part of Europe. The Slavonian version of the kolo has its own quirks that have been passed down over the centuries, with dancers holding hands and shoulders to create an unbreakable feeling of unity. The whole thing is topped off with gorgeous traditional clothing, then men in white shorts, dark trousers, vests, and hats, while the women shine in colourful dresses, aprons, and scarves. Don’t be surprised to see younger generations enthusiastically embracing this vital part of Slavonian heritage.
Međimurski leptir
With a name like “Međimurje Butterfly,” you’d be correct in assuming that this dance is of the more poetic kind. The area around Međimurje in the north is a region of patience and charm, and this traditional dance reflects the gentle harmony and confident patterns of those laconic hills. Traditional instruments, such as the violin and dulcimer, provide an ethereal backdrop for dancing couples as they swoop and sway towards an exhilarating crescendo. The dance is performed in a communal style, with dancers holding hands in a circle, an obvious allegory to the importance of working together towards a common goal. The Međimurje Butterfly is arguably Croatia’s most romantic traditional dance, and a hugely important chapter in the country’s dancing heritage. Dancers wear traditional clothing from the region; men wear white shirts, dark trousers, and vests, while ladies wear colourful dresses and scarves to juxtapose against the starkness of their partners.
Istarski balun
The most popular traditional dance on the Istrian Peninsula, the balun (also known as balon) is a must at any event, celebration, or ceremony. Another in the long line of couples dances in Croatia, the steps are intricate and complex but seem second nature to those performing the movement, all soundtracked by traditional instruments like the mih (a type of goat-skin bagpipe) and the sopile (a woodwind instrument not unlike the oboe). The dancers form a circle, with men on the inside and women outside, as the two genders move in opposite directions, creating a sense of unity along the way. Expect plenty of foot stomping and rhythmic cries, in a blur of heritage, history, and hips.
Posavski drmeš
The pace picks up somewhat with the Posavski drmeš, an energetic dance from the fertile lowlands of Posavina. The dance follows the trend of focusing on couples moving as one in a circle, passing through intricate coordination and meticulous choreography to create an experience that is both individual and communal at once. Dances like this bring the stories of the past into the modern world, creating a bridge for culture to survive and (often) thrive. Known sometimes as the “Kiša Pada” (rain fall), the Posavski drmeš is characterised by shaking and vibrant buzz steps, backed by the tamburica and the violin.
Lika kolo
And we return to the kolo one last time, this time the version seen in the mountainous region of Lika. The Lika kolo ticks all of the boxes you expect, with couples dancing in a blur of colour and energy, sometimes with music, sometimes without. You can see the Lika kolo with rich instrumentation, or you can see it with natural ambience providing the beat. The dance is the important thing, of course, and this piece of heritage is frequently seen at weddings, parties, and other joyous celebrations.
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