Amidst the nostalgic and majestic Europe, is located Croatia, the country that seems to be the inspiration for landscapes in fairy tales and which today stands as one of the world’s hotspots. Picturesque landscapes, medieval alleys, stone forts, one of the most beautiful coasts of the Mediterranean.
Located among Central and Southern Europe, besides the Mediterranean, the Republic of Croatia brings together the beauty in the continent and its traditions in its beautiful provinces and landscapes. Zagreb, its capital, is a vibrant city that reflects the best of the Croatian culture and its past with Austro-Hungarian influence in architecture, art and gastronomy.
Croatia includes more than 1000 small islands that meander the coast of the Adriatic Sea, although only 50 of them are inhabited. Its beaches are the cleanest in Europe and are characterized by the intense blue waters and the mountains with small traditional villas that surround them.
Each Croatian province has a distinct charm. Istria, for example, is an ancient villa that evokes the Italian Tuscany, but is much cheaper and less populated. In addition, Croatia is the country with the greatest number of “cultural treasures” of the continent, many of them named Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Among the most emblematic are the elaboration of lace, the music to 2 voices in Istrian scale or the famous festival of San Vlaho.
By being part of the most beautiful and authentic regions of Europe, Croatia retains a traditional atmosphere that complements harmoniously with medieval architecture. Paved alleys with great walls, ancient fortresses, bridges and castles are part of the landscape that makes this country a magical place, as if it was taken from a fairy tale.
Therefore, it is no coincidence that Croatia has been chosen as the main set for the recording of the series “Game of Thrones” which is benefited by it charming and fantastic monumental aspect. In addition, this country is home to a variety of sites declared World Heritage by UNESCO. Here are a few.
Diocletian’s Palace in Split
Perhaps one of the most admired sites in Croatia worldwide, this majestic architectural complex located in Split was built by the Emperor Diocletian in the 3rd century. Despite its antiquity, this palace retains a large percentage of its original structure that combines the beauty of a walled palace with the monumentality of a large military fort.
Its immense sand-colored towers stand out from the landscape with a facade facing the sea, something that makes it stand out even more in the landscape. This set is a real witness of Croatia’s past, the nostalgic tints of its history and the imposing culture that remains in the vestiges of its empires.
Dubrovnik
Although all Croatian cities have a particular beauty and infinity of attractions, Dubrovnik is without a doubt one of the most visited destinations in the country. This ancient province was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The city that emerged from the ashes after wars and bombings, has managed to preserve its most important historical sites, its streets full of marble and monuments that are true works of art. Walking through its cobbled streets that surround the mountains offering a dreamlike view, admire the entire city from a cable car or visit the variety of beautiful museums, are some ways to enjoy this majestic site.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
It is the most famous and visited national park of Croatia, it is found in Lika region and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1979. This majestic site shows the beauty of the planet in all its splendor. The alternation of lakes, springs and waterfalls allows to admire a unique place in the whole world.
With different shades of intense blues, each eye of water that outstand between the mountains of Plitvice has its own beauty, which might well seem like a science fiction movie.
Croatia is also famous for its gastronomy and leafy vineyards that are located on the outskirts and which offer the region’s most valued wines. In addition, its beaches are famous for offering the possibility of practicing extreme sports that complement the tourist experience giving you an unexpected turn.
This beautiful country also preserves a special hospitality and peculiar luxury. Croatia is the first country that hosted quality “Q” hotels in the world. This denomination is used to distinguish the highest level of elegance of a Gran Turismo hotel, valued by the quality of service, amenities, location and facilities.
Undoubtedly, Croatia is a peculiar European jewel that shelters the best of its history and reflects it in the beauty of each corner. It is only necessary to admire for a few seconds the unique sights of its cities, which seem to have been drawn to tell a fantastic story in which time does not pass, it only exalts its majesty.