Game Bocce

Bocce is a bowling game without pins, known in Dalmatia as "igra na balote" or "na buće ili boće." It is an ancient sport that originated in ancient Greece, was adopted by the Romans, and spread from Italy to other Mediterranean and Alpine countries. Historical sources suggest that bocce was a popular recreational game in ancient Egypt 2,500 years before Christ. Throughout the centuries, bocce has been closely linked with Dalmatia, introduced to the region during the Venetian Republic's rule.

The game is played on open ground, meadows, squares, along roads, and designated areas called "zog," especially during hot summer days, with participants rolling up their sleeves and enjoying a glass of wine on a table or stone slab. Bocce is a genuine sport that requires muscle control, concentration, and nerves, catering to both individuals and teams, fostering a competitive spirit, skill, and strategic thinking. Smooth round balls made of materials like chestnut wood, olive wood, or metal balls in modern times are used in the game.

All balls are the same size except for the "bulin," a smaller target ball that sets the focal point and determines the gameplay. Each location in Dalmatia follows unwritten rules for bocce, typically played to 21 points, with each point representing the bocce closest to the bulin.