Croatia

The country of old history, beautiful beaches and interesting culture.

Croatia is a country situated on the eastern side of the Adriatic sea famous because of its beautiful beaches, old towns as well as rich culture heritage. Croatia has something to offer whether it is the historical streets of Dubrovnik city, the beautiful Plitvice Lakes National Park or the lively local culture. Hiking in the Dinaric Alps, walking around medieval towns of Istria or sunbathing on the beautiful coast of the country, Croatia offers an experience you will never forget.

To obtain all information about Croatia, look at its Wikipedia site to see its detailed history as well as general information. To get the official resource and news visit the official site of Croatia

In case you want to find more information regarding Croatia, such as its flag, language, area, currency, and population, you can produce and download free  this information by visit in  Random Country Generator tool. 

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Geographical Location

Croatia is situated in Southeast-Europe and it borders Slovenia to the northwest, Hungary to the northeast, Serbia to the east, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the southeast and Montenegro on the south. On the west side, Croatia has a stretch of a long coastline of the Adriatic Sea, about 1800 kilometers in length with more than 1000 islands and islets. The mainland of the country on the other hand is mostly dominated by mountainous landscapes and interspersed hills and therefore the country is a haven to nature enthusiasts as well as to people interested in the beach.

Geogene and Natural Structures

The natural scenery of Croatia is extremely rich. Towards the north and east, Dinaric Alps forms rugged mountains, deep caverns, and lakes, one of which; Plitvice Lakes is a UNESCO heritage site and known to have cascading waterfalls and turquoise blue lakes.

Its pristine waters, attractive beaches and tiny little islands make the coastal area a million visitors magnet. Among the most renowned islands there are Hvar, Korcula and Brac with their Mediterranean beauty, antique towns and vineyards.

Climate

The climate on the Croatian coast is a Mediterranean with hot and dry summers and moderate and rainy winters. The summer temperature is very pleasant, averaging at 28 to 35 Cesis (82 to 95 Fahrenheit) and ideal to swim, sunbath and practice water sport activities. The regions lying in the interior have continental climate, winters are colder and summers are warmer.

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the best seasons to visit Croatia since the weather is not so hot and the nation is not crowded.

The older and old history

The history of Croatia is varied and rich, and quite ancient civilized roots are present. Centuries later the Romans controlled the area and their ruins can be still admired around Split like the Diocletian Palace, which is currently in the very centre of Split. Ancient Pula Arena, the ancient amphitheater found in the city of Pula is also seen under Roman influence.

The Kingdom of Croatia existed during the Middle Ages and at this time the country was frequently between the empires and this included such empires as the Hungarians and the Venetians. These medieval towns, castles, walls built in the fortified walls, which even after today can be seen, indicate this heritage.

Emperors Austro-Hungarian Empire and Ottoman Empire

In the 16th century, most of Croatia fell to the Ottoman Empire hence affecting culture and architecture. Nevertheless, the Austro-Hungarian Empire also contributed a lot to the creation of modern Croatia, at least, in the 19 th century, when the state was a part of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy.

Independence and the Croatia of the present day

Croatia was a country that had acquired its independence against Yugoslavia in the 1990s when the socialist federation disintegrated. This culminated into the Croatian War of Independence (1991-1995) characterized by severe combat, as well as international acceptance of Croatia as a free nation.

Since its attainment of independence, Croatia has experienced major economic and political reforms and it joined European Union in 2013. Today Croatia is a highly stable and developing country, with a great tourist business going on, and historical appeal.

Religion and Ethnicity Diversity

Croatia has ethnically Croatians and a sizeable population of people of Serbian origin. Croats belong largely to the Roman Catholic faith and Serbian minority is largely Eastern Orthodox. Muslims and Protestants have minor groups too.

The Slavic, the Roman, Venetian, and Ottoman influences shape the culture in the country and are reflected in its art, music, and architecture. An official language is Croatian, and this language is written in Latin alphabet.

Traditions and Cultural Practices

Traditional folk dance, music and art are abound in Croatia. Klapa singing is an a cappella style of harmony developed in Dalmatia and it is considered as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. Zagreb Film Festival and Dubrovnik Summer Festival are two biggest cultural gatherings in the nation and they bring the world artists, musicians and filmmakers.

A typical Croatian food is traditional and derives from Croatian history as well as their diversity in the country, which has an Italian, Mediterranean and Eastern European influence. Favorite foodstuffs are ćevapi (minced meat grills), pasticada (beef stew) and sarma (stuffed cabbage roll) and the Dalmatian region is famous of seafood and olive oil.

Language

Croatian, a South Slavic language with some similarities with Serbian and Bosnian is the official language of Croatia. The English language is also widely spoken and most particularly in the regions that are bigger and where there are tourist attractions other than the Croats who speak most of the languages: Italian and German among others which have a connection with the region historically.

Religious Festivals

Croatia celebrates Christmas and Easter during which time, there are traditional church services, family get takeaways as well as gatherings and a feast. The Easter Monday is also special in certain regions, which have processions and community institutionalized parties throughout.

The patron saint of Dubrovnik, a feast of St. Blaise is celebrated on February 3, with a big procession, traditional music and dances. Another major religious holiday which is observed across the country is the Feast of Our Lady of the Snow.

Holiday and Special Days (National)

On October 8 independence day is celebrated in Croatia, this day the country declared its independence with former Yugoslavia back in 1991. Another important day in the country is the Statehood Day on June 25 that takes place to recognize the adoption of Croatian constitution.

The Remembrance Day commemorates the fallen victims of the 1991 siege of Vukovar during Croatian War of Independence on 18 November.

Cultural Festivals

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival may be regarded as one of the most renowned Croatian cultural events held in the UNESCO-listed town of Dubrovnik and constituting the performance of the theater, music and dance. Zagreb Film Festival is the other more prominent festival, which presents international cinema and adds filmmakers and movie lovers.

Economic Development

The economy of Croatia is multi-faceted and its most important areas involve tourism, agriculture, industrial sectors, and services. It is the land of quality agricultural produce, which includes olive oil, wine, citrus fruit, and truffles. Another major contributor to the economy is shipping industry and the textile industry.

Tourism

About 20 percent of the Croatian economic activity is connected to tourism, and millions of tourists visit the country annually. The Adriatic shore of the country, the national parks and historical cities (including Dubrovnik, Split and Zadar) are the big tourist attraction.

Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park are UNESCO List and concentrated recreational sites of the nature lovers. Hvar, Korcula and Brac are beautiful islands with fabulous locations to relax, do water sports and explore.

Trade and Industry

Croatia is experiencing increasing level of industrial production notably in ship manufacturing, pharmaceutical production and renewable energy. The nation is reputed to have food processing as well as olive oil production and wine-making industries.

Attractions not to Miss in Croatia

Croatia has six sites that you should not miss:

1. Dubrovnik

The Pearl of Adriatic Dubrovnik is a well-known city surrounded by a walled-in Old Town with numerous historical buildings. It is also a world heritage site at UNESCO.

2. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Among the most famous geographical objects of Croatia is the Plitvice Lakes National Park which is adorned by gorgeous waterfalls, bright lakes and beautiful forests.

3. Split

On the island of Split, there is an unusual place called Diocletian Palace, where more than 1,700 years ago, the emperor Diocletian built his palace.

4. Hvar Island

Hvar Island is also known to have a Mediterranean climate, fair beaches, old towns and good night life.

5. Pula Arena

Pula arena is a Roman arena in Pula, one of the most well-conserved arenas worldwide. It has concerts, festivals and cultural activities.

6. Korčula Island

Korcula Island is famous due to the medieval architecture of the area, lovely streets and amazing beaches. Marco Polo is also born there.

Healthcare System

Croatia has universal healthcare also known as universal system of care, people enjoy its services. The healthcare system in the country is tax-financed and delivers quality services.

Education System

Croatia has free education between primary, secondary and university education. There are also some of the prestigious Universities in the country such as the University of Zagreb and the University of Split.

Transport Network

The Croatians have a good transport system with roads, railway systems, ferry, and planes. Two main international airports include Zagreb Airport and Dubrovnik Airport.

Urban Development

The cities of Croatia, especially, Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik combine the influence of the past and the modern infrastructure, including walking areas, transport, and developing cities.

Ideal Seasons

The most suitable time to go to Croatia is the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) where weather is nice and less people are around.

Special events and festivals

Dubrovnik Summer Festival, Zagreb Film Festival, and Roskilde Festival are not to be missed festivals in Croatia.

Summary: Land of culture and natural wonders: A Nation of natural wonders.

Croatia is an ideal combination of the beauty of nature, ancient monuments and cultural richness. Croatia is one region with something to suit everyone; whether walking the streets of Dubrovnik, hiking Maksimir park or holidaying in Split, everyone would find something to do.

Frequently Asked Questions

When to go to Croatia?

Spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) are the most pleasant seasons to visit and it is not very crowded at this time.

Which are the most interesting attractions in Croatia?

Some of the best places of attraction, are Dubrovnik, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Hvar Island, Split and the Pula Arena.

Croatia Which languages are spoken in Croatia?

Croatian is the official language, whereas in tourist regions English is frequently used.

Is Croatia a safe tourist destination?

Indeed, Croatia is one of the safest countries as far as tourism is concerned and the crime rate is low.

Which are the cultural festivals in Croatia that I need to attend?

Events that can be considered of primary importance and even grounds to visit Croatia are the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, Zagreb Film Festival, and the Roskilde Festival.