Unique in so many ways, Croatia has roots extending from ancient times and a great cultural wealth telling of its turbulent history extending from the Roman era, through the Renaissance, the Baroque period and the Ottoman conquests right up to the present day which are exceptionally appealing to all who visit the country. If we then add to this rich cultural heritage the amazing natural beauty which attracts visitors in all seasons of the year, the 8 national parks, 11 nature reserves and the numerous heritage sites under UNESCO’s protection, Croatia truly is a country of incredible magnetic attraction.

Over fifty music and film festivals that inspire even the most resistant, many of them at locations that date back to ancient times, when Roman soldiers and emperors were walking these trails and routes, Ottoman pashas conquering the territory, the world’s greatest writers creating their masterworks, and kings and dukes arriving for their holidays.

Beautiful beaches, one of the cleanest seas in the world, secluded bays, lakes and mystical mountain peaks, clean rivers and drinking water, fantastic cuisine and prized wines and spirits, along with the world-renowned cultural and natural heritage, are Croatia’s the most important resources, attractive to all.

Fertile Croatian plains from where you can taste freshly-picked fruit, visit castles, museums and parks, river ports and family farms, wineries, freshly-baked bread whose aroma tempts one to try it over and over again, it is the unexplored hinterland of Croatia, a place of mystery and secrets, dream and reality, the Croatia of feelings and senses.

Yes, Croatia is all that and so much more. It is the home of the necktie, the parachute, the torpedo, the mechanical pencil, the filament light bulb, the world’s fastest electric car and the second oldest film festival in the world, the Dalmatian dog, Marco Polo, one of the oldest cities and parliaments in Europe, the second longest stretch of defensive walls in Europe, the smallest cathedral, the oldest arboretum, and the birthplace of great athletes. It is a country of exceptional strategic significance, a criss-cross of roads that connect the east and west of Europe, a beating artery, a country with a beautiful sea, green mountains, beautiful plains, rich fields and oil deposits.

And last but by no means less significant than all of this – the Croats themselves! The Croatian people and their kindness are a magnet which keep drawing tourists back. Sometimes the hospitality of the locals will make you wonder whether you are in your own home or simply – on holiday in Croatia!

Written by Croatian National Tourist Board

Photo courtesy of Croatian National Tourist Board