Tears and song filled the streets of Split as the city gathered to remember and show their respects for the legendary singer and songwriter Oliver Dragojevic. Tens of thousands of citizens lined the main promenade in Split, and in spite of the heatwave and soaring temperatures, showed their love for the greatest ever Croatian musician.
Split says farewell - Photo CROPIX
Born in Vela Luka on the island of Korcula, Dragojevic grew up and spent most of his working life in Split. And the city showed just how much he meant to them yesterday. A special commemoration was held in the Croatian National Theatre in the morning. An emotional ceremony that was attended by the Croatian President, Kolinda Grabra-Kitarovic, and the Prime Minister, Andrej Plenkovic. The day before the government had declared that the 31st of July would be a National Day of Condolence, meaning that flags all over the country were flying at half-mast.
Dragojevic passed away on morning of the 29th of July at the age of 71 after losing his battle against lung cancer.
And then in his beloved Split the bells of the St. France Church sounded at around 7.00pm and the casket made its way slowly along the Split promenade. Tears and song, flowers and candles, the outpouring of sadness and love towards their favourite son was visible and moving.
The casket was then taken on-board a waiting catamaran where, with a myriad of other ships of all shapes and sizes, it made its way to Vela Luka. Two warships from the Croatian Navy waited for the catamaran in the middle of the Adriatic and the whole crew paid their respects by lighting flares for the fabled singer.
His funeral will be held in his hometown and birthplace, Vela Luka, today at 18.00.