The year 2023 brought a wave of new and interesting additions to the city of Split, each contributing in its own way to the evolving character of this coastal destination. While many of these novelties passed by without much attention, one in particular stood out and quickly caught the curiosity of both locals and visitors — a store filled with hundreds of bright yellow rubber ducks, right in the heart of the city.
This unique concept belongs to a franchise that first began in Amsterdam, where Barbara de Vlam turned her long-standing hobby and love for rubber ducks into a successful business idea, encouraged by her daughter. What started as a playful passion soon transformed into a global phenomenon, spreading across cities and countries, each store adding its own local charm while keeping the same cheerful spirit.
The idea proved to be surprisingly universal. Rubber ducks, simple as they may seem, carry a sense of nostalgia, fun, and light-heartedness that appeals to people of all ages. From collectors to curious passersby, the concept invites everyone to pause for a moment and reconnect with something playful and carefree.
Following its success in cities like Dubrovnik, Šibenik, and Pula, Split naturally became part of this growing story. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and constant flow of tourists make it an ideal place for such a whimsical and eye-catching concept. Nestled among historic streets and modern life, the store adds a touch of humor and color to the urban landscape.
In a city known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and strong traditions, the arrival of something as unexpected as a rubber duck shop shows how Split continues to evolve while still preserving its identity. It’s a small but memorable addition — one that brings smiles, sparks curiosity, and reminds us that even in a city full of history, there is always room for a bit of fun.
WHO ARE THE MAIN DUCKS IN TOWN?
Many have wondered where rubber ducks actually come from and why they became such a universal symbol, but the truth is that for many of us, the little yellow duck was a part of growing up. It was a constant companion in the bathtub — a simple toy that brought comfort, fun, and a sense of calm, turning bath time into a small ritual shared between parent and child.
The story of the rubber duck became even more popular around 1970, when the character Ernie from the beloved children’s show Sesame Street sang the famous song “Rubber Duckie”. That moment helped transform the duck from just a toy into a cultural icon — a playful symbol of joy, childhood, and light-heartedness that continues to be loved across generations.
Over time, the classic yellow duck evolved far beyond its original form. Today, the shelves of these specialty stores are filled with ducks dressed as different characters and personalities. You can find ducks styled as chefs, musicians, policemen, superheroes like Batman, and even icons such as Marilyn Monroe. In a playful tribute to local history, there are even ducks inspired by figures like King Diocletian, connecting modern pop culture with the rich heritage of cities like Split.
These creative designs turn a simple object into something much more than just a toy — they become collectibles, souvenirs, and small pieces of art that bring a smile to anyone who sees them. And who knows — perhaps one day, we’ll even see a duck inspired by local football legends like Marko Livaja, adding yet another layer of fun and local identity to this ever-growing collection.
REACTIONS, REACTIONS….
Although the initial reactions were filled with surprise and a touch of disbelief, as the days went by, that first impression slowly settled into something more familiar and accepted. In today’s fast-paced world, where everyday life often feels routine and predictable, it is rare for a simple visit to a store to spark a genuine, visible reaction from people. Yet, this unique duck shop in the heart of Split manages to do exactly that.
Whether it’s locals passing by on their daily walk or tourists exploring the city for the first time, the sight of hundreds of colourful rubber ducks displayed in the window or on the shelves rarely fails to catch attention. People slow down, smile, point, and often step inside out of curiosity. In a way, the store becomes more than just a shop — it turns into a small attraction, a place that adds a touch of joy and surprise to an ordinary day.
In a time when shopping has become more about necessity and routine, this place stands out by offering something different. More and more, people are looking for meaningful souvenirs and thoughtful gifts, items that carry a story or a memory. And this is exactly what makes this store special — it offers something playful, symbolic, and memorable.
So, if you find yourself walking through Split, take a moment to step inside and explore this cheerful little world. It’s not just an opportunity to find a unique souvenir, but also a chance to bring a smile to someone’s face with a simple, yet meaningful gift — something a little different from the usual, and perhaps, just a bit more personal.