Top Interesting Facts About Croatia

Croatia, with its stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture, is a destination that never fails to captivate travelers. As you plan your next adventure to this beautiful country, here are some intriguing facts about Croatia that will enrich your travel experience:

A Land of Islands – Croatia is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, but did you know that it’s also home to over 1,200 islands? Only 47 islands are inhabited and most of them only with a few families. From the popular islands of Hvar and Korčula to the hidden gems like Vis and Mljet, each island has its own unique charm and allure waiting to be explored.
The Game of Thrones Connection – fans of the hit TV series “Game of Thrones” will recognize several Croatian locations featured in the show. Dubrovnik, with its medieval walls, served as the backdrop for King’s Landing, while Šibenik’s St. James Cathedral was used for scenes in Braavos.

Incredible UNESCO Sites – Croatia boasts an impressive seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranging from historic cities to stunning natural wonders. Explore the ancient Roman ruins of Diocletian’s Palace in Split, the well-preserved Plitvice Lakes National Park, and the charming Old Town of Dubrovnik.
>> Explore the impressive UNESCO cities and natural beauties in some of the Perfecta Travel tours.

Tie Invention – the necktie, a fashion staple worldwide, has its origins in Croatia. Croatian mercenaries in the 17th century wore distinctive scarves around their necks, which caught the attention of Parisians. The French called it “La Cravate,” derived from “Croat.”

Pioneers in Filming – Croatia has been a popular filming location for numerous Hollywood blockbusters. Notable films shot in Croatia include “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again,” “Star Wars: The Last Jedi,” and “Robin Hood: Origins,” showcasing the country’s diverse landscapes and stunning scenery.

Unique Cuisine – Croatian cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Eastern European flavours. Indulge in fresh seafood along the coast, savor traditional dishes like peka and pasticada, and sample local wines and olive oils for a true taste of Croatia.
>> Experience Croatian cuisine on a Perfecta Travel excursion Culinary Experience Split.

The World’s Smallest Town – Hum, located in the heart of Istria, holds the title of the world’s smallest town. With only around 20 residents, this charming medieval town is a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Pioneers of modern pen – Croatia is the birthplace of the modern pen. Invented by Slavoljub Penkala, a Croatian engineer, in the early 20th century, the ballpoint pen revolutionized writing instruments and became an indispensable tool worldwide.

The Dalmatian Dog Breed– the Dalmatian dog has its origins in the region of Dalmatia along Croatia’s Adriatic coast. Known for their distinctive spotted coat, Dalmatians were historically used as carriage dogs and have since become popular pets around the world.

Meet Croatian winds – Croatia is home to some of the strongest winds on Earth, known locally as the “bura” and the “jugo.” The bura is a cold, dry wind that blows from the northeast, while the jugo is a warm, humid wind that blows from the southeast. On the other side, “Maestral” is a typical summertime Adriatic wind blowing from the north-west, bringing nice and stable weather. This pleasant wind begins blowing around dawn and lasts until sunset. During summer, it offers a welcome cooling effect, bringing cleaner, healthier and colder air from the sea.

Truffle Treasure – Istria is renowned for its truffle-rich forests, which is one of the most expensive culinary delicacies in the world. Visitors to Istria can enjoy truffle hunting tours and savour gourmet dishes infused with the earthy aroma of these prized fungi.
>> Experience the unique experience of truffle hunting in the Perfecta Travel tour.

Pula’s Amphitheater – Pula’s Roman amphitheater, known as the Arena, is one of the best-preserved ancient amphitheaters in the world. Built in the 1st century AD, this iconic landmark once hosted gladiator battles and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a venue for concerts and events.

Oldest Continuously Inhabited City in Europe – Croatia’s city of Šibenik proudly holds the title of being the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe, with evidence of settlement dating back over 4,000 years. Explore its narrow alleys, medieval fortresses, and impressive UNESCO-listed cathedral to uncover the city’s storied past.

These fascinating facts only scratch the surface of all that Croatia has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to its natural beauty, rich history, or vibrant culture, Croatia promises a memorable and rewarding travel experience for adventurers of all kinds. Start planning your Croatian getaway today and uncover even more intriguing secrets waiting to be discovered.