Discover Croatia: The Land of a Thousand Islands

A Journey Through History, Culture, Food, and the Must-See Destinations of My Homeland

This picture is the property of the author, and it was made with an AI program

Introduction

Somewhere in Southeastern Europe, on the Adriatic Sea, lies a small country called Croatia, my homeland. The capital of my country is Zagreb, while the town where I was born and spent most of my life is Hvar, located on the island of the same name. Today, I live with my wife in Bjelovar, but I still visit my hometown and island frequently.

In this article, and the series of articles to follow, I will introduce you to my country as a whole, then to my hometown, and finally take you through Croatia’s most famous cities, landmarks, restaurants, and culinary treasures that you absolutely must see, taste, and experience.

Pictures of people having fun in Hvar, Croatia

Source: Google

Interesting Facts About Croatia

Let’s begin with a few fascinating facts that make Croatia unique and recognizable around the world:

• The Tie (Cravat): The necktie, a global symbol of style and elegance, actually originates from Croatia. Croatian medieval soldiers serving as mercenaries in France inspired this fashion trend, and today, businesspeople worldwide wear it. October 18 is celebrated as International Cravat Day.

• Licitar Hearts & Lepoglava Lace: Licitar (a traditional decorated gingerbread) and Lepoglava lace are recognized by UNESCO as intangible heritage, as every detail tells a story about Croatian tradition.

• The Sinj Alka: This knightly tournament, dating back to 1715, honors the victory over the Ottoman Empire. Competitors on horseback aim their lances at a metal ring (alka). It is under UNESCO protection and is a powerful reminder of freedom and resilience.

• Agave Lace from Hvar: Unique in the world, this lace is made by Benedictine nuns who carefully extract threads from the agave cactus and weave them into intricate patterns. Protected by UNESCO, it remains one of Croatia’s rarest treasures.

Pictures of agave lace and the Benedictine nuns making it

Source: Google

Croatia, the Land of a Thousand Islands

Croatia is often called the land of a thousand islands, and for good reason—the Adriatic coast is dotted with countless islands, bays, and beaches. But Croatia isn’t just the sea. It’s also the fertile plains of Slavonia, the mountainous regions of Gorski Kotar and Lika, the rocky beauty of Dalmatia and Istria, and the charming central and northern regions.

Each part of Croatia has its own specialties, top-rated restaurants, traditional dishes, and world-class wines. Some of the most famous Croatian dishes include:

• Pašticada with gnocchi – a Dalmatian classic of beef stew marinated with wine and dried fruit.

• Brudet – a fisherman’s fish stew, rich and served with polenta.

• Fish Paprikaš – a freshwater fish stew seasoned with sweet red paprika.

• Peka – meat or seafood slow-cooked under a bell-shaped lid with potatoes and vegetables.

• Istrian Fuži with Truffles – pasta paired with luxurious white truffles.

• Zlevanka and Cheese with Cream – traditional Bilogora sweets and dairy dishes.

• Soparnik – a UNESCO-protected Dalmatian chard pie.

• Chobanac – a hearty Slavonian stew with paprika.

• Black Risotto – squid ink risotto with a true Mediterranean flair.

• Kremšnita – the queen of desserts, especially in Samobor.

• Pag Cheese and Prosciutto – symbols of Croatian gastronomy.

• Kulen and Čvarci – spiced sausage and crunchy pork delicacies from Slavonia.

Pictures of fish stew called Brudet, beef stew called Pašticada and Black Risotto

Source: Google

The Short History of Croatia

Croatia’s roots stretch back to ancient Greek and Roman times, visible across the coast and inland. From Diocletian’s Palace in Split to the recently discovered Roman watchtower on the Danube from the era of Marcus Aurelius, history is everywhere.

The story continues through the Middle Ages, Ottoman invasions, Austro-Hungarian influence, and modern history marked by antifascism and remembrance of World War II.

Despite often being tied to other nations, empires, and unions, modern democratic Croatia was founded during the Homeland War from 1991 to 1995.

Pictures of Ottoman wars, the Second World War, and the Homeland War of 1991

Source: Google

Must-See Places in Croatia

Croatia is filled with breathtaking destinations, but here are the ones you absolutely shouldn’t miss:

• Dubrovnik: The “Pearl of the Adriatic,” surrounded by monumental walls, UNESCO-listed, and known for its role in Game of Thrones and Star Wars.

• Hvar – My hometown and a global hotspot for nightlife, beaches, luxury dining, fine wines, olive oil, hidden coves, caves, and history. Celebrities like Demi Moore and Tom Cruise have vacationed here.

• Korčula: Famous for its medieval walls, St. Mark’s Cathedral, the Marco Polo Museum, and the traditional Moreška sword dance.

• Split: A blend of ancient and modern, centered around Diocletian’s Palace, Peristyle Square, and the lively Riva promenade.

• Šibenik and Trogir: Both UNESCO gems—Šibenik with St. James Cathedral and Trogir with its perfectly preserved medieval old town. Nearby lies Krka National Park with stunning waterfalls.

• Plitvice Lakes: One of the oldest national parks in Europe, with cascading lakes and waterfalls that freeze into ice sculptures in winter.

• Zagreb: The capital, offering historic Upper Town, St. Mark’s Church, museums like the Museum of Broken Relationships, and a vibrant café culture.

• Rovinj: A picturesque Istrian town with Venetian architecture and the stunning St. Euphemia’s Basilica.

• Pula: Home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, still hosting concerts and festivals today.

• Bjelovar: A warm and welcoming town, founded by Empress Maria Theresa as a military stronghold against the Ottomans. Known for dairy products and set to open Wellovar, one of Europe’s most modern thermal spas, in summer 2026.

Pictures of Split, Dubrovnik and Hvar

Source: Google

Conclusion

I have briefly described my homeland, Croatia, and just a small part of its endless beauty. In the next article, I will focus on the island and town of Hvar, followed by other cities and landmarks that everyone should visit.

From stunning beaches and world heritage sites to Michelin-starred restaurants and vibrant festivals, Croatia promises an unforgettable adventure to anyone who visits.

So, pack your bags, and let Croatia’s magic take your breath away.

---