Croatia
Every nation loves their own country and calls it the most beautiful.
Croatians, however, actually call their state "Our Beautiful" ("Lijepa
naša"), which is also the title of the national anthem.
The Republic of Croatia covers a land area of 56,691 square kilometers,
which makes it one of Europe's medium sized countries, like Denmark,
Ireland, Slovakia or Switzerland. In addition, it has 31 067 square
kilometers of territorial waters. It has a mainly Catholic population of
4,784,265.
Croatia is situated more or less in the heart of Europe. It is where the
Alps, Mediterranean and Pannonia. Plain converge, and is bordered by the
Sava, Drava and Danube rivers. It has three climatic areas, which means
it has something for everybody. There is also an interlacing of Central
European and Mediterranean cultures, which has left a distinct mark on
the country in terms of its heritage.
Through its defense of European culture and Christianity throughout the
centuries, Croatia has succeeded in preserving its national identity.
Making the most of the influence of the great cultures in its immediate
vicinity, Croatia has created a unique spirit, and is today a full
participant in European culture and science.
There are numerous cultural and historical monuments of great
significance in Croatia, such as the ancient amphitheatre in Pula, the
palace of the Emperor Diocletian in Split (a UNESCO world heritage
site), the Romanesque cities of Krk, Rab, Pag, Korčula and Trogir,
elegant Dubrovnik, a 13th century city with excellently preserved
Renaissance towers and walls, which is also under UNESCO protection, one
of Europe's first public theatres in Hvar, the basilica of Euphrasius'
in Poreč, the preRomanesque church of St. Donat in Zadar, Šibenik
cathedral, and many others.
In the continental part of Croatia, there are some 50 medieval castles,
as well as picturesque cities and towns, such as Varaždin, where
acclaimed baroque concerts are held.
The capital city, Zagreb, with a population of almost one million, and
which recently celebrated its 900th anniversary, is adorned by the
medieval Upper Town and has numerous places of worship, museums and
theatres.
A great deal of attention has been devoted to protecting the
environment. Croatia is the best preserved area in the northern
Mediterranean, and has seven national parks, including the Plitvice
Lakes (a UNESCO world heritage site since 1949), Paklenica and Risnjak
in the continental region. Other national parks are found in the coastal
region: the Kornati archipelago. Brijuni, the Krka river and the wooded
Adriatic island of Mljet. There are an additional six natural parks: the
Kopački marshlands, Medvednica, Velebit, Biokovo. Telaščica and Lonjsko
polje.
The modern tourist development of Croatia began with the arrival in the
19th century of Czechs, Austrians and Hungarians who immediately
recognized the quality of the Adriatic coast, which encompasses Istria,
the Croatian riviera and Dalmatia. The coast is 5,790 kilometers long,
has 1,187 islands, is one of the most indented in Europe, and is ideal
for sailing.
The exceptionally beautiful and varied landscape, the crystal clear
waters, the untouched nature, the pebbly and sandy coves and beaches,
over 350 species of fish, crabs and shellfish, and the Mediterranean
flora make it irresistible.
The warm currents, which come from the Mediterranean and pass up the
Croatian Adriatic coast, provide the basis for a pleasant climate and
vacation throughout the year. The sea temperature in summer is about
250C. The warm weather in the region is exceptional, especially in
Dalmatia. For example, the island of Hvar has 2.718 hours of sunshine
annually, while Dubrovnik has 2.584.
The needs of the most demanding visitor will be satisfied in the hotels,
camping sites, marinas and private residences by the intimate atmosphere
of the fishing villages and small harbors, the sport and the unique
cuisine and excellent wines, and in the continental part by the
countryside, hunting and fishing. The various cultural and sporting
event, together with the sincerity and hospitality of the Croatian
people will make a visit to an Croatia unforgettable experience.
Croatians really want "Our Beautiful" to be beautiful for visitors, so
that they may take the most beautiful memories back with them.
