Croatia is one of the most versatile and fascinating countries in Europe. From breathtaking coastlines and historic cities to unique traditions and extraordinary nature, here are 20 interesting facts about Croatia!
1. Croatia has over 1,200 islands
The Croatian coast boasts no fewer than 1,244 islands, islets, and rock formations, of which 48 are permanently inhabited. Well-known islands like Hvar, Brač, and Korčula are popular destinations travels, thanks to their vibrant atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and numerous activities such as snorkeling, island hopping, and wine tasting.
2. Dubrovnik is one of the best-preserved medieval cities
The old city of Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dubrovnik’s city walls are among the best-preserved fortifications in the world and became world-famous for their role in the series Game of Thrones.
3. The Plitvice Lakes are a natural wonder
Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Europe. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and consists of 16 lakes interconnected by waterfalls. The lakes have a striking turquoise color.
4. Croatia has one of the smallest towns in the world
The town of Hum, located in the Istria region, is often cited as the smallest town in the world. It has only about 30 inhabitants and is a popular tourist attraction due to its medieval charm.
5. The necktie originated in Croatia
During the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648), Croatian mercenaries wore a scarf or neckcloth around their necks, often a farewell gift from their loved ones. This style caught the attention of the French, who adopted the fashion and called it “cravate,” a term derived from the Croatian word for Croat (Hrvat).
The fashion then spread to England and evolved into the modern necktie. To this day, the cravat is associated with Croatia in many languages, and on October 18th, Croatia even celebrates Cravat Day in honor of this heritage.
6. Croatia has one of the deepest caves in the world
The Lukina Jama cave in the Velebit mountain range is one of the deepest caves in the world, reaching a depth of 1,431 meters (4,695 feet).
7. The Romans built a giant palace in Split
The city of Split is built around Diocletian’s Palace, an enormous Roman palace dating from the 4th century. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the best-preserved Roman structures and is still in use today, housing residences, shops, and restaurants.
8. Croatia has its own unique cuisine
Croatian cuisine is heavily influenced by Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Turkey. Specialties include pašticada (braised beef stew), crni rižot (black risotto), and peka (meat or fish cooked under an iron dome with hot coals).
9. Croatia is the homeland of Nikola Tesla
The world-famous inventor Nikola Tesla was born in 1856 in Smiljan, a village in Croatia that was then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Today, you can visit the Nikola Tesla Museum in his birthplace.
10. The Croatian football team has achieved great success
Croatia has an impressive football history. The national team finished second at the 2018 World Cup and third at the 1998 and 2022 World Cups. Players like Luka Modrić, Davor Šuker, and Ivan Rakitić are world-famous.
11. Croatia has a rich wine culture
Croatia has a winemaking tradition dating back over 2,500 years. The regions of Istria and Dalmatia are known for their quality wines, such as the red Plavac Mali and the white Malvazija.
12. One of the first European amphitheaters was built in Croatia
The city of Pula, in Istria, boasts one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. This imposing structure was built in the 1st century AD and is still used today for concerts and festivals.
13. The Adriatic Sea is one of the cleanest in the world
The seawater along the Croatian coast is crystal clear and among the cleanest waters in Europe. Many beaches have Blue Flag status, an international award for clean and well-maintained beaches.
14. Croatia’s highest peak accessible by road is Sveti Jure
Mount Sveti Jure, located in the Biokovo mountain range, is the second-highest peak in Croatia at 1,762 meters (5,781 feet) and the highest accessible by road. The view from the top is spectacular, especially at sunset. (Note: Dinara is the highest peak overall, but Sveti Jure is notable for its road access).
15. Croatia has a museum dedicated to broken relationships
In Zagreb, you’ll find the Museum of Broken Relationships, a unique museum displaying objects linked to failed love affairs. This museum now also hosts temporary exhibitions in other countries.
16. The Croatian alphabet has some unique letters
The Croatian alphabet consists of 30 letters, including special characters like č, ć, dž, đ, lj, nj, š, and ž. These letters make the language distinctive and challenging for non-Croatian speakers.
17. The first fountain pens were patented by a Croat
The Croatian engineer Eduard Penkala invented the modern mechanical pencil and made significant developments to the fountain pen around 1906/1907. His inventions became a worldwide success and laid the foundation for modern writing instruments.
18. Croatia has one of the oldest national parks in Europe
Plitvice Lakes National Park was established in 1949 and is one of the oldest national parks in Europe. The park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and unique flora and fauna.
19. One of the oldest working lighthouses is in Savudrija
The Savudrija Lighthouse, built in 1818, is the oldest working lighthouse in Croatia. It was erected by the Austrian navy and is one of the oldest lighthouses on the Adriatic coast.
20. Croatia has an impressive carnival
Rijeka hosts the largest and most famous carnival in Croatia. Often compared to the famous Carnival of Venice, it attracts thousands of visitors annually with colorful parades and festivities.
Croatia is a country full of history, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From its enchanting coastline and medieval cities to its role in world history and innovations, Croatia offers something for everyone. Whether you love adventurous hikes, delicious wines, or historical treasures, Croatia will surely surprise you.
