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    Tourist Attractions in Croatia

    The most interesting and beautiful tourist attractions in Croatia. Photos and a brief description.

    About Croatia

    As an independent country, Croatia appeared on the map of Europe quite recently – in 1991. In the past, the territory of the state was under the control of the Romans, the French and the Austro-Hungarians, and was part of Yugoslavia. Iconic places and objects remained from each epoch. The historical centers of Dubrovnik, Rovinj and Trogir will allow you to get acquainted with the history of Croatia in full. There are many buildings listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

    The unique modern facilities include the Sea Organ in Zadar: with its help, the sea and the wind give concerts in the open air. The most beautiful beach in the country is the Golden Horn, located on a spit prominent in the sea. And national parks like Mleta are practically untouched natural beauties with rich tourist potential.

    Top Tourist Attractions in Croatia

    Dubrovnik

    The fortress city is sandwiched between hilly hills and the sea. Dubrovnik was founded in the VII century, and some arches, churches, towers that have survived to this day were built around this period. The fortress walls stretch for 2 km . The height reaches 25 meters, and the width is 6 meters. They seem to grow out of the rocks, turning the city into a sea fort with full-fledged defensive fortifications. The walls acquired their current appearance in the XVI century.

    Dubrovnik
    Plitvice Lakes

    Plitvice Lakes

    This protected area is located in the central part of the country. The complex of lakes was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979. The water is so clear that you can see the bottom and the fish, of which there are many. It is forbidden to swim, as well as to disrupt the natural balance of the natural attraction by any other means. Periodically, new waterfalls appear in the valley. Now there are about 140 of them.

    Pools Amphitheater

    One of the largest among the preserved Ancient Roman amphitheatres. In the past, it accommodated about 23 thousand people, now - 5 thousand. Up to the V century, battles were held within the walls of the majestic structure. Gradually, bloody fights replaced fairs and other city events. A museum is open in the underground halls of the amphitheater. The main exhibits are archaeological finds telling the history of these places.

    Pools Amphitheater
    Rovinj

    Rovinj

    Most of the houses in the Old Town of Rovinj were built in the Mediterranean style more than 100 years ago. Their other important difference is the bright colors of the exterior walls. In 1963, these quarters were officially named a cultural monument, and the attractions are literally around every corner. Three gates have also been preserved: the Portico, the Mutual Gate and the Gate of St. Benedict. They are an integral part of the fortress wall that once surrounded the city.

    Trogir

    Under each ruler, Trogir, located on the Adriatic coast, continued to develop, decorate and follow fashion. For this reason, the mixing of styles on its streets is a familiar pattern. Renaissance and Baroque buildings are adjacent to Romanesque churches, and the local cathedral is a real work of architectural art. The historical center of Trogir is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

    Trogir
    Korcula

    Korcula

    This city, based on the island of the same name, is called the most "Venetian" on the Adriatic coast. It is easily accessible by ferry: they depart from different ports of Croatia. In winter, the resort is empty, and in summer it is filled with vacationers. The houses are characterized by decorations in the form of generic emblems, balconies and passages. The city walls date back to the XIII century, but they acquired their current appearance after numerous restorations and reconstructions.

    Diocletian's Palace (Split)

    It was built in Split at the turn of the III and IV centuries. Materials brought from Turkey and Egypt were used for its construction. It is among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as the best preserved palace of the Roman Empire. The central building has a rectangular shape and looks like a Roman legion camp according to the scheme. Temples in honor of Jupiter, Venus and Cybele operated under him. The mausoleum is well preserved.

    Diocletian's Palace (Split)
    Euphrasian Basilica (Porec)

    Euphrasian Basilica (Porec)

    Part of an extensive architectural complex in the city of Porec. The basilica bears the full name of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and has the status of a cathedral. A mosaic ribbon frames the front part of the asp. The front wall is decorated with mother-of-pearl inserts on stone slabs. The canopy over the altar was created in the XIII century from marble, and the canopy is supported by columns and also decorated with mosaics.

    Hvar Fortress

    It was built in the XVI century on a hill. It was rebuilt under different rulers. Especially significant in terms of changes in appearance was the period of Austrian rule. An observation post and barracks appeared in the fortress. The halls house a collection of amphorae, as well as artifacts dating from the Middle Ages and earlier eras. The walls offer a picturesque view of the Paklin Islands and Hvar.

    Hvar Fortress
    Lovrienac Fortress (Dubrovnik)

    Lovrienac Fortress (Dubrovnik)

    The construction of a fortress near Dubrovnik was necessary for defense. Cannons mounted on the walls of Lovrienac controlled all approaches to the city from land and sea. The fortress became a continuation of the 40-meter hill, which increased the visibility for the guards. The thickness of the walls varied from 60 cm to 12 meters. This was done in case the fortress was captured: a few volleys from Dubrovnik would have returned the territory to Croat control.

    Temple of Augustus (Pula)

    It belongs to the Roman period of government. The temple was built in Pula in honor of the Emperor Augustus. It was part of the triad – a complex of similar structures that has not survived to this day. Initially, pagan gods were worshipped here. Over time, the temple came under the aegis of Christianity. After restoration in the middle of the last century, the attractions returned to their former appearance, and a permanent exhibition of bronze and stone sculptures was arranged inside.

    Temple of Augustus (Pula)
    Ban Jelacic Square (Zagreb)

    Ban Jelacic Square (Zagreb)

    The central square of the Croatian capital. It is named after an Austrian commander who was of Croatian origin. He held the title of ban – ruler of the country for 11 years. The square was laid out in the XVII century and was called Kharmitsa. The territory is closed to cars, but many tram routes intersect here. Attractions nearby: the first high-rise building in Zagreb, the building of the largest bank in the country, the Mandusevac fountain.

    Croatian National Theatre (Zagreb)

    The current appearance of the theater premises was acquired in the 60s of the last century, and the cultural center itself was founded in the XIX century. Viennese architects were responsible for the design of the building. This is the main theater and opera scene of the country. Actors, singers, musicians and conductors of world renown performed at it. Among them are Ivan Zaits, Sarah Bernhardt, Franz Liszt. In 1995, the centenary of the theater was widely celebrated.

    Croatian National Theatre (Zagreb)
    Museum of Broken Relationships (Zagreb)

    Museum of Broken Relationships (Zagreb)

    It is also called the "museum of divorces". In 2011, the Zagreb landmark received a prize from the European Museum of the Year award. The founders of the collection are Olinka Vistitsa and Drazen Grubisic. These artists were once a couple, and after the breakup decided to keep the memorabilia – a symbol of their happy past. Gradually, the exhibition was supplemented with exhibits provided by other ex-lovers.

    Oceanarium Pools

    In 2002, the Austro-Hungarian fortress of Verudela was given over to the Aquarium. The architectural landmark built in 1886 was restored and adapted to new needs with the latest technology. Among the inhabitants of aquariums are representatives of the Adriatic Sea, guests from the tropics, freshwater fish of European lakes and rivers. The most spacious aquarium is a home for sharks. Since 2006, a Sea Turtle Rescue Center has been operating at the Aquarium.

    Oceanarium Pools
    Marine Organ (Zadar)

    Marine Organ (Zadar)

    Not far from the port in Zadar, stone steps stretch along the embankment for 70 meters. They are the surface part of the sound system, which also includes 35 polyethylene pipes. Different diameters and lengths, as well as angles of inclination, allow the force of seawater to drive air through the structure and get the sound of wind instruments. The architect of the attraction is Nikola Basic.

    St. Mark's Church (Zagreb)

    One of the oldest buildings in Zagreb. It is located on the square of the same name near the parliament building. Fires and earthquakes are the reasons for the constant rebuilding of the church in the past. Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles can be traced in architecture. The interiors are decorated with frescoes depicting members of the royal family. Two coats of arms are laid out on the tiled roof of the church: the triune kingdom that once existed on the territory of Croatia and the capital itself.

    St. Mark's Church (Zagreb)
    Zagreb Cathedral

    Zagreb Cathedral

    The time of foundation is considered to be the end of the XI century. It was built in honor of the Ascension of the Virgin Mary and two saints: Vladislav and Stefan. Centuries later, walls appeared around the cathedral. The south tower was used as a military observation post in the XVII century. The presbytery became the burial place of the commander Erdedi and Cardinal Stepinac. In 1993, the image of the attraction got on a 100 kuna banknote.

    Split Cathedral

    Split Cathedral is the oldest operating in the world. The former imperial mausoleum is the basis of the cathedral. And the whole complex can be divided into three parts, which were built in different eras. The Catholic landmark is located on the territory of the Diocletian's Palace. Numerous alterations did not touch some details: wooden shutters, a Gothic altar, crypts and arks with relics.

    Split Cathedral
    Church of St. Euphemia (Rovinj)

    Church of St. Euphemia (Rovinj)

    It was founded in the first half of the XVIII century. Previously, the Church of St. George stood on this place in Rovinj, but it became too small for parishioners arriving from all over the neighborhood. A bell tower has been built nearby – a simplified copy of a similar Venetian bell tower belonging to St. Mark's Cathedral. The sarcophagus with the relics of Euphemia is placed behind one of the altars. Marble was actively used in the interior decoration of the church.

    St. James Cathedral (Sibenik)

    The construction lasted for more than a hundred years and was completed in 1536. The height of the dome is 32 meters. 74 sculptures surround the altar part from the outside. Statues of Old Testament prophets adorn the baptistery. The cathedral has the status of a cathedral in the city of Sibenik. It is one of the seven Croatian churches called "small basilicas". Since 2000, it has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

    St. James Cathedral (Sibenik)
    Mirogoj Cemetery (Zagreb)

    Mirogoj Cemetery (Zagreb)

    It is one of the most beautiful cemetery parks in Europe. Created in Zagreb in 1876. The central building of the complex is the Peter and Paul Chapel. Its architect is Hermann Bolle. Prominent Croats of different faiths are buried in the cemetery. In addition to individual graves, there are several memorials. Among them is a Monument to Yugoslav national heroes and a Wall of Pain dedicated to the victims of the War of Independence of the country.

    Baredine Cave

    Lime water made the cave near the city a real work of art: stalactites and stalagmites formed from its drops on the floor and ceiling. They resemble statues from different viewing angles. A crater more than 65 m deep leads to underground lakes. Here, small crabs crawl along the walls. The halls of the cave are illuminated, and a special tourist trail has been laid for visitors. A museum with ancient pottery is open at the entrance.

    Baredine Cave
    Blue Grotto (Bishevo)

    Blue Grotto (Bishevo)

    The cave in the Balun Bay of Bishevo Island is popular with tourists because of the unique natural phenomenon. In clear, sunny and windless weather, the grotto is filled with blue radiance once a day for several hours. Boats of certain sizes can swim inside: no more than 5 meters in length and 1 meter in height. Nearby there is a Green Grotto – another unique natural attraction.

    Marjan Park (Split)

    It is believed that the park on this territory existed in the time of the Emperor Diocletian. This is one of the most picturesque places in Split. Its "highlights": a cozy church, a mini-zoo, equipped picnic areas, jogging paths, tennis courts, cliffs for rock climbers and romantic corners. You can climb the Maryan Hill by stairs and explore the surrounding area: the sea, the city, Lake Kozyak, the Klis fortress and nearby islands.

    Marjan Park (Split)
    Mlet

    Mlet

    Tourists come to the island of Mljet mostly because of the national park of the same name. It occupies 5375 hectares of north-western territories, including part of the water area. For landscape lovers, this is paradise on earth: panoramic views of the coast, sea cliffs and green-covered mountains open from different points of the island. 90% of the area is occupied by forests. Among them are salt lakes – not fully studied natural objects.

    Krka

    The National Park stretches for 109 km between the cities of Sibenik and Knin. The status of a national park was assigned to the Krki River Valley in 1985. Seven large waterfalls formed on the riverbed. The flora is diverse, and there are few fish species, but 10 out of 18 are endemic. Migration routes of birds pass through this territory. Within the park there is an ethnographic museum and two monasteries: the Franciscan and the Serbian Orthodox.

    Krka
    Bryony

    Bryony

    In 1983, a group of islands in the north of the Adriatic Sea became a national park. The total area of the territory is 7.42 km2. It includes 14 islands and reefs, as well as a water area. Bryony is separated from the mainland by a strait. Sea urchins are found near the coast – a sign of the purity of the water. At the moment, the Croatian government is developing a project to turn the archipelago into a popular high-class tourist area.

    Locrum

    An island near Dubrovnik. There is no permanent population. The area is slightly less than 0.7 km2. Boats to the mainland run on a regular basis. A natural attraction is the Dead Lake. Napoleon's Fort, the Botanical Garden with peacocks and the ancient Benedictine monastery are the main reasons to visit Lokrum. The rocky beaches are wild, but equipped with convenient descents into the water.

    Locrum
    Srj Mountain

    Srj Mountain

    Dubrovnik is located at the foot of Srdj. The highest point of the mountain is 412 meters. It offers a breathtaking view of the city. In the time of Napoleon, a fortress was built on the top. It was also useful in the Croatian War of Independence. Now there is a military museum inside the fortress. By cable car, you can climb to the top in about 3 minutes. The alternative is a 2 km long walking route.

    Biokovo

    The second highest mountain range in Croatia. The highest point is 1762 meters. The length is 25 km with a width of 10 km . The Nature Park on an area of 196 km2 was established in Biokovo in 1981, when the territory belonged to Yugoslavia. Its status was confirmed in 1998 – already as part of independent Croatia. There is a large Botanical Garden on the descent to the sea. There are ruins and foundations of buildings on the mountain.

    Biokovo
    Istralandia Water Park

    Istralandia Water Park

    Modern and the first water park in Croatia. It has been operating since 2014 near the city of Novigrad. The complex includes 12 slides of different heights, almost 1.5 km of pipes for descent, the largest artificial wave pool in Eastern Europe, a children's pool with a pirate castle, 5 restaurants, bars, a currency exchange office, a small market. You can buy a ticket for the whole day or for half a day. Prices vary depending on the season.

    Zrce Beach (Novalja)

    Novalja, the city where the beach is located, is called "Croatian Ibiza". This is the main tourist center of the island of Pag — with endless parties, dance music and various outdoor events. On the beach, in addition to discos, there is an opportunity for lovers of outdoor activities to relax comfortably. Volleyball courts, jet ski and boat rentals, cafes with national dishes – all this is in abundance.

    Zrce Beach (Novalja)
    Golden Horn Beach

    Golden Horn Beach

    One of the business cards of Croatia, the most beautiful beach in the country. It is located on a spit that protrudes into the sea for more than 600 meters. The name is due to the unusual shape of the beach. The nearby town of Bol is surrounded by greenery. There is something to do on the coast in any weather: water skiing, windsurfing, scuba diving, jet skiing. The beach has everything you need for a comfortable stay, but in season it is very crowded.

    Makarska Riviera

    It stretches for 60 km on the Adriatic coast in Central Dalmatia. The Riviera is called a rather narrow strip of land, sandwiched between the Biokovo mountain range and water. Resort villages here pass into one another, sometimes they are separated by groves. Ferries from here take you to the islands of Hvar and Brac. The climate, well-equipped beaches and developed infrastructure have made the area popular with tourists.

    Makarska Riviera