From its stunning coastline to its rich cultural heritage, Croatia offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant traditions. Curious about this enchanting country? I’ve found some interesting tidbits about Croatia that will leave you wanting to pack your bags and embark on an adventure. Discover the charm of Croatia with these five fun facts.
1. Size of Croatia
Croatia covers 21,851 square miles. That makes it a little smaller than the state of West Virginia. However, there’s a lot to see within Croatia’s borders, so keep reading.
2. Croatia’s National Parks
The natural beauty of the Croatian natural parks and their various flora and fauna will leave you mesmerized. Visit any or all of Croatia’s eight national parks: Brijuni, Kornati, Krka, Mljet, Paklenica, Plitvice Lakes, Risnjak, and Northern Velebit. Frequently referred to as heaven on earth, Brijuni has 14 small islands that are famous for their beautiful shapes, varied and distinct forms, and high cliffs. Meanwhile, Plitvice, which has 16 lakes connected by waterfalls as high as 256 feet, is just another one of the Croatian national parks that will captivate you with its natural beauty.
3. Croatia’s Coast
Croatia boasts 1,100 miles of impressive mainland coastline and over 1,200 nearby islands on the Adriatic Sea. A cruise is a popular way to see several coastal cities. Croatia’s cruise season generally runs from Mid-April to mid-October.
Some charming coastal cities to visit are Dubrovnik, Split, and Zadar. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik is famed for its impressive fortress walls and the shimmering blue of the sea. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Equally as beautiful is Split, the main town of the region of Dalmatia. Back in 305 AD, the city captivated the heart of the Roman emperor Diocletian, who decided to build a residence here. The city’s vibrant Riva promenade provides a peek into the everyday life of the locals.
Situated at the edge of the Dalmatian Coast, Zadar attracts with its mix of history, such as the Roman Forum, and unique attractions like the Sea Organ that composes music with the rhythm of the waves. Zadar is the oldest continuously inhabited Croatian city.
4. Dalmatian Dog Breed
The origins of the Dalmatian dog breed, known for it’s distinctive spotted coat and athletic build, can be traced to the Dalmatia region of Croatia. The exact origins are a mystery, but Dalmatia was its first definite home.
5. Croatia is cut in two
At first glance, it looks like the neighboring country of Bosnia and Herzegovina appears to be landlocked. But, if you look closely at a map, you’ll see a tiny strip of Bosnia and Herzegovina that extends to the Adriatic Sea. This tiny strip cuts Croatia into two parts. The coastal city of Dubrovnik is in the southern part.
Visiting Croatia
Whether you’re seeking picturesque coastal towns or ancient ruins, this European gem continues to captivate travelers with its beauty and charm. If Croatia is on your bucket list and you’re ready to start planning, I hope you will consider using my services.
