A Vibrant Symbol of Croatian Heritage
Photos: https://www.facebook.com/hkudlado
Recognizable at a glance, rich in its vibrant red colour and adorned with colourful stripes, the Šestinski kišobran (Šestine umbrella) is more than just protection from the rain. It’s a powerful symbol of tradition, identity, and emotional connection, especially for Croatians living far from home, like those in Australia.
Photos: https://www.facebook.com/mladihrvati.folklornagrupa.3
Though it’s quite large and not the easiest item to pack, many Croatians from Australia make sure to bring a Šestine umbrella back with them after visiting the homeland. For them, it’s not just a souvenir—it’s a cherished memory, a piece of Zagreb, and a link to their roots.
A Proud Symbol of Zagreb
The Šestine umbrella is a traditional Croatian umbrella and an essential part of the Šestine folk costume. This costume originates from the Šestine village in the hilly Prigorje region, just above Zagreb. Once worn daily until the 1960s, the traditional attire and umbrella are now mostly seen at festivals and cultural events.
This iconic umbrella features a wooden handle, metal ribs, and its standout bright red canopy with colourful stripes makes it instantly recognizable. It holds the label “Izvorno hrvatsko” (Authentically Croatian) granted by the Croatian Chamber of Commerce, acknowledging its cultural importance.
Croatian Folk Traditions Flourish in Australia
Photos: https://www.facebook.com/Hrvatski.Folklor.Brisbane
In Croatian folklore groups and ensembles across Australia, the Šestine umbrella remains a beloved highlight. Whether carried during performances or used as decoration, it always draws attention with its vivid design and cultural significance.
These groups often perform beautifully choreographed Prigorje dances. They carefully practice to keep the heritage alive. Many of them also own impressive collections of traditional folk costumes, either original pieces from Croatia or authentic replicas. The Šestine umbrella is never left out.
For Croatian Australians, the umbrella represents more than just a costume piece. It’s a reminder of their family’s history, their community’s passion, and their deep connection to the homeland.
Did you read it?: A Heartwarming Tale: Šestinski kišobran
This emotional connection is captured perfectly in the short story Šestinski kišobran by Nada Iveljić. It is part of a collection of 26 charming tales written in simple, warm language. The story follows Ivek, a curious little boy from the village of Šestine, who, during a heavy rainstorm, sets off for Zagreb with nothing but his large red umbrella.
As he walks, he passes by surprised chickens and geese, determined to reach the city. When the umbrella becomes too heavy to carry, he flips it over and sails down the flooded streets like a boat. Eventually, he falls asleep on a bench, only to wake up and find his beloved umbrella gone—taken by the wind.
Though whimsical and lighthearted, the story resonates deeply. It reflects the childlike wonder, the adventure of discovery, and the bittersweet feeling of loss—feelings many Croatian Australians experience when thinking about their homeland. https://www.hrlektire.com/?knjiga=sestinski-kisobran
More Than an Umbrella
For Croatians in Australia, the Šestinski kišobran is not just an umbrella. It’s a vivid splash of home in a foreign land, a cultural treasure, and a symbol of enduring identity. It tells stories—of tradition, of family, and of journeys between past and present, between Croatia and Australia.
