written:
09 July 2001
What are Morcici, or in Italian 'Moretti'??
They are ear-rings of antropomorphic shape (black head with a
turban),but you can find the icon of Morcic in other jewellery items - brochet, rings, necklesses, tie-pins, etc.
During the last three centuries, morcici were a part of a traditional city jewellery, but as well a luxurious and modern one.
You could have seen them on married women (as a status simbol), while men usually did not wear
them. Only fishermen and mariners, who wore moretti-s (one on the right ear)as an amulet protecting them from the evil, while on the sea.
Later on, in the 19th century, moretti became a luxurious jewellery, and excepted as one of the souvenirs and simbols of Rijeka.
Today, the city of Rijeka has continued being the production centre of Morcici, due to that also named "rijecki moretti".
Nowadays, morcici simbolise connection and belonging to Rijeka and the coastal area of Croatia.
They are very popular and alot of people, young and old, like having them; whether as a jewellery or a souvenir in their homes.
Pros: unique, beautiful
Rating: just a tip
Details: http://www.multilink.hr/tz-rijeka/zanimljivosti.html
Culture/Conduct by tashha, who is from here (February 2001)