Makarska in the Ottoman Era – An Endangered Market on the Border of The Empire

Abstract

This paper points out the significance of Makarska as part of the Herzegovinian Sanjak during the two-century Ottoman rule. The border area location of that small coastal town is highlighted, which was quite limiting in terms of development. In this regard, continuous threats, i.e. hostility from the neighboring Venetian Dalmatia, are mentioned. The focus is on the port of Makarska, a commercial pier, as a destination of economic importance both for the local population and Visoka Port. Attention was also drawn to a number of difficulties in the functioning of the aforementioned pier, where mostly salt brought from the Venetian salt pans was sold. The role of the Makarska Franciscans and their monastery, which was formed, devastated, but also rebuilt in the indicated period, is emphasized. A brief overview of the social status of the inhabitants of the Makarska littoral is also given. Their willingness to cancel their loyalty to the sultan in wartime circumstances and show favor to the Republic of Venice was clarified.