Short notes on Vrbnik's history
Vrbnik is one of the oldest settlements on the island. Its close area was inhabited in prehistory - the earliest archaeological artifacts found in Vrbnik's vicinity can be dated as early as 4000 years B.C. (Neolithic Age). Just opposite of Vrbnik, on a hill-top overlooking Vrbnik's harbor from the north, are remains of a Bronze Age settlement (1200 y.B.C.) whose thick dry-stone walls can still be seen. There is also material evidence of the Liburni tribe (Iron Age) and Romans living in the Vrbnik area. Many ruins of small churches and chapels can be seen in and around Vrbnik, some of them more than 1000 years old.
Vrbnik was first mentioned by that name in „Deed of Donation of Glorious Dragoslav“ dating from 1100.y.A.D. In 1388.y.A.D. Vrbnik got its Statute, a very important source of knowledge in Medieval law and also a splendid testimony on the high civilization level of the town in that period. Vrbnik is closely bonded with the Frankopan family- princes of Krk who played a significant role in the history of Krk and Croatia. It is said that they called their possessions in and around Vrbnik their patrimony, which may imply their Vrbnik origin.