Nakovanj, Orebić, Ancient settlement near Orebić, Croatia
Nakovanj is a settlement on Grad hill, which resembles an anvil in shape on the Pelješac peninsula. The site sits in Dubrovnik-Neretva County and overlooks the surrounding landscape and sea.
Archaeological finds at Spila Nakovana cave show an Illyrian fertility shrine and human settlement dating back about 8,000 years. These discoveries show the region has been continuously inhabited since ancient times.
The name comes from a legend about three blacksmith brothers who divided their land, with one receiving an anvil and founding this settlement. This story remains part of the local identity today.
The best way to reach the site is by hiking trails that lead to the peak of Saint Elijah mountain. The trails are walkable and offer different viewpoints along the way.
The area is home to muflons introduced in 1970 that roam freely on the mountain slopes. These animals are a surprising feature of this Mediterranean landscape.
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