A historic sundial has been reconstructed at the remote Cape Škamica. It tells a story of fishers, shepherds and orientation, although its maker, age and precise use remain partly unknown.
A timepiece returns to the landscape
At the beginning of 2026, the City of Pag prepared the professionally supervised reconstruction of the historic sundial at Cape Škamica. A recent report now says the work has been completed.
The municipal budget allocates €10,700 to the Vlašići sundial project. Archaeological and conservation specialists supervised the work; at the editorial deadline, the city had not yet published a direct completion notice.
What the sundial may have been used for
The structure stands in a barren coastal landscape traditionally used by fishers and shepherds. One interpretation holds that it showed the time of day and the rhythm of work while also marking an important point of orientation.
Such interpretations are plausible, but they are not the same as a surviving construction record. Who built the sundial and exactly when remains unknown; earlier municipal information dates it probably to the late 19th century.
Two numeral systems on one stone
According to the current description, the restored design combines Roman numerals on the winter side with Arabic numerals on the summer side. This particular feature makes the object culturally and historically interesting.
The project’s technical documentation should explain how closely all present-day markings follow verified original traces. Until that documentation is fully public, the sundial remains a reconstructed monument with unanswered questions.
The walk is part of the visit
Škamica is not a roadside monument. The current account describes a walk of about four kilometres from the Vlašići or Smokvica area. On Pag, four kilometres of karst means little shade, sharp rock and, in windy conditions, a much more demanding route than a promenade.
Sturdy shoes, water, sun protection and a check of the wind and temperature all belong in the plan. Allow time and drinking water for the return journey; in intense heat, early morning or later in the day is the better choice.
A monument, not a picnic table
The reconstruction makes the site legible again, but not available for any use. Do not climb on the structure, redraw its numerals or move stones from the dry-stone walls.
Visitors should take their rubbish away and keep to existing paths. That will prevent a successful rediscovery from becoming a new source of pressure on this quiet coastal landscape.
Evidence
Sources & date
Sources support the facts. Planning notes and recommendations are Golden Beach editorial assessments.
- Reconstruction of the sundialCity of Pag · 20 February 2026project preparations, specialist involvement and further steps
- Reconstruction of the sundial at Cape ŠkamicaCity of Pag · earlier project information, checked 3 September 2026location, presumed dating and cultural-historical background
- Forgotten sundial in southern Pag rescuedMorski.hr · 3 September 2026reported completion, execution, interpretations and walking route
- Official Gazette of the City of Pag No. 2/2026City of Pag · 2026budget allocation of €10,700
