Komiža is a town located on the west side of the Vis Island in the deep bay. The town is separated from other part of the Vis Island by mountain range Hum, with the highest peak of 587 meters, which drops steeply to the shores of the Komiža bay. Such a position of the town and the lack of agricultural land, determined the orientation of Komiža to the sea and fisheries.

The town of Komiža has approximately 1700 inhabitants, which is the smallest number in the last 150 years since the census are implemented.

Komiža is connected with Vis town via new road, only 10 km distance.

Komiža is younger settlement of the neighboring town of Vis. One theory about the origin of its name tells us that originates from the word "Com Issa", which literally means a place next to Issa, the ancient settlement of today Vis town. It is assumed that the Greeks and Romans settled Komiža bay as well, but there is not found physical evidence. However, Komiža is first mentioned in 1145.

During the Venetian rule, Komiža is rapidly developing as a center of fishing in this part of the Adriatic. It was an industry that allowed the construction of churches, castles and large houses in Komiža, and brought wealth to the town and the Venice. Later, under Austrian rule Komiža gets an independent municipality, and grew into a town with all modern amenities. In the early 20th Century is the largest settlement on the island of Vis, with nearly 4,000 inhabitants.

With the collapse of the Austro - Hungary begins a long period of stagnation of the town. More and more people are moving out to California, where they continue to engage in fishing. After the Second World War, continuing the decline of the island and with it Komiža. Not only is Vis converted into a military zone, which prevented the development of tourism, but Komiža abolished status of municipality and lost direct ferry connections with Split.

After Croatian independence and the departure of the army from the island, emigration stopped and began the development of tourism. In 1993 town was again municipality and 1997 Komiža got town status.

What to see in Komiža

Parish Church of St. Nicholas (Muster) from 13th century with the remains of a Benedictine monastery. (Each year on St. Nicohlas day, 6 December, the ceremonial burning of a fishing boat takes place in front of the church.) 

Venetian castle on the waterfront

Fishing Museum

Blue cave on the island Biševo