Preliminary communication
https://doi.org/10.5673/sip.56.3.2
Second Homes and the Transformation of Okrug Gornji on the Island of Čiovo, Croatia: the Local Perspective
Geran - Marko Miletić
orcid.org/0000-0001-6673-657X
; Institute of Social Sciences Ivo Pilar, Zagreb, Croatia
Mario Bara
; Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
Marica Marinović Golubić
; Institute of Social Sciences Ivo Pilar, Zagreb, Croatia
Abstract
The authors start from the premise that the presence of second homes is an important development
issue in local communities, especially those with clear spatial and demographic
limitations, such as island communities. The purpose of this paper is to point out the factors
that have influenced the evolution and growth of second homes on the Croatian island of
Čiovo as well as the consequences of this phenomenon. The study is based on data collected
from multiple sources: the tourist board statistics, photographs and semi-structured in-depth
interviews with the locals. Based on our findings, we divided the evolution of second homes
on Čiovo into five stages, from the 1960s beginnings to modern-day rapid growth. At various
stages different motives can be observed behind the selection of Okrug Gornji for second
homes. At first, it was mostly because of the well preserved nature, pleasant climate and
peaceful atmosphere of the island. Later, more future oriented motivation for obtaining second
homes came into focus, such as the possibility to convert them into primary residence
later in life. Also, it was a financial investment and a way to show a higher social status. In
conclusion, the interviews show that changes and developments connected with the second
home growth in Okrug Gornji are generally described in positive terms.
Keywords
second homes; island Čiovo; settlement Okrug Gornji; Croatian islands; island community; local community
Hrčak ID:
207760
URI
Publication date:
8.11.2018.
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