The living heritage associated with the traditional fishing boat, the batana, is shared along the Adriatic coast and in the city of Rovinj-Rovigno, Croatia. The batana lies at the heart of diverse cultural practices, such as the songs and oral traditions conveyed through the local Istriot dialect, as well as many forms of social gatherings and traditional crafts related to boatbuilding and fishing techniques. However, with the advent of outboard motors and the industrialization of fishing activities, this living heritage was at risk of decline. An association of residents decided to revive and safeguard it, leading to the establishment of the nonprofit Batana Ecomuseum.
© Ecomuseum Batana, 2004
What were the issues?
Since the 1960s, the introduction of outboard motor and plastic fishing boats has gradually supplanted the use of the traditional batana wooden boat. As a result, its associated practices have also declined, such as the knowledge of boat construction and painting, the skill of lug sailing, and the use of Istriot dialect in singing and other oral traditions during festive events and communal feasting. The key factors for social cohesion and the community life were thus on the verge of extinction.
‘For me, a local of Rovinj-Rovigno, my town is synonymous with the batana. There are also the nightly serenades (the bitinade), street songs and our dialect, but it is the batana that fills your heart with joy. When I see it sailing up and down the harbour, it is like living inside an extraordinary painting that recalls poetry and melodies, protecting them from oblivion.’
Libero Benussi, inhabitant of Rovinj and author
© Ecomuseum Batana, 2004
What approaches were implemented?
In 2004, a group of local enthusiasts took it upon themselves to establish an association dedicated to saving and reviving the batana. With support from the municipality, the Heritage Museum of the City of Rovinj, the Rovinj Historic Research Centre, the Italian Community of Rovinj and eco-museologists, the Batana Ecomuseum was founded.
At the museum, a diverse group of experts, practitioners, and community members have come together to collaborate and continue the batana traditions. A multimedia permanent exhibition provides visitors with an overview and introduction to the batana. Directly connected to the museum is the shipyard, where the construction and assembly of these boats can be observed. Visitors can also enjoy a cruise in a batana boat, paired with the opportunity to savour traditional food and wine while enjoying traditional music at the community cantina (Spacio Matika). Activities such as workshops for children and teenagers, along with research roundtables on specialized topics, cater to diverse audiences and interests, fostering a connection to the cherished batana culture.
This initiative, entitled ‘Community project of safeguarding the living culture of Rovinj/Rovigno: the Batana Ecomuseum’, was selected for the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices in 2016.
‘The Batana Ecomuseum is one of a kind in the Mediterranean. It has a well-defined mission - to study, preserve and highlight the historical memories of the local community that identifies with the batana.’
Valerio Drandić, President of the Ecomuseum Batana
© Ecomuseum Batana, 2004
How did it work?
The Batana Ecomuseum’s approach has proven highly effective, striking a balance between research-driven initiatives and hands-on activities. This synergy promotes both the active use and broader appreciation of the batana.
Events like the vibrant Rovinj’s Regatta, complemented by traditional dinners and music performances, the inclusion of open-air boat repairs within the urban landscape, public boat-launching parades, and the ‘Batana Way’ walks have all played a role in enhancing visibility and public awareness. These activities allow to increase the income of the Batana community and serve as an open invitation for visitors and the residents of Rovinj/Rovigno to engage, participate, and deepen their understanding of this living heritage.
This has sparked a ‘snowball effect’ of participation, where everyone - from children to experts - can find their own role in safeguarding the batana. The Ecomuseum’s multi-sensory approach – inviting locals and visitors to feel the texture of the wood and paint, savor the aromas of traditional cuisine, and listen to the melodies of the local dialect – creates an immersive experience that leaves lasting memories.
© Ecomuseum Batana, 2004
How was the community involved?
The initiative began within the community, led by local practitioners who established the Batana Museum. It also brought together the Italian community of Rovinj, the primary bearers of the region’s traditional dialect. From the outset, an expert in eco-museology was involved to guide the project. Furthermore, all residents of the city - regardless of ethnicity, age, gender, or background - are actively engaged. Recognizing the crucial role of youth in safeguarding and celebrating the Batana, special efforts were made to involve the next generation in this initiative.
Contacts for sharing experience
Ecomuseum Batana / NGO
Obala P. Budicin 2, 52210 Rovinj, Croatia
Languages for contact: Croatian, Italian, and English
+385 981 688 367; + 385 (0) 52 812 593
info@batana.org
To learn more
- Video about this experience