Marina, a magical place in the heart of Dalmatia, is mentioned in medieval sources as early as 1070, although in the past it went under different names, the oldest known being the pre-Slavic one, Bausiona and Drid. The old name for Marina was Bosiljina, which has been mentioned since the 9th century as part of the parish of Trogir, and according to the former village that was once known as Baselen (Bosilen).
The inhabitants here were fishermen and farmers, and the centuries-old olive trees produced the oils for which the area was widely known. The once poor, traditional diet that included fish, seasonal vegetables, and virgin olive oil, is today recognised as being the healthiest way of eating – the Mediterranean diet, which is also on the UNESCO list of intangible world heritage.

Marina is recognisable by its picturesque Kaštil, part of a former 15th century fortification complex, which was supposed to protect it from Turkish incursions. It was one of the most populated and richest places in Dalmatia when it was strongly attacked by the Turkish army in 1657. Defending themselves with all the available weapons, the locals, including some 30 young women in men’s uniforms, beat off the formidable enemy, but during the final attack after a seven-day defence, almost all of them died. Two captured young widows, Kate and Matuša, were spared death by the astonished Turks.