Croatia is a land of immense natural beauty and rich cultural diversity. The lush green forests, the cascading waterfalls, and the stupendous summits come together to create magical landscapes. Equally awe-inspiring is the history of this land which has been home to some of the most impressive civilizations in the world. Each generation has left an indelible mark on the culture of this region and the art, music, and architecture narrate the marvelous tales of the incredible past. Every island, city, and village has something unique and rare to offer, be it the spectacular buildings or the serene natural splendor. Following are some of the most interesting places that stand out as Croatia’s most beloved treasures.
Treasure troves of Croatia -The City of Dubrovnik
If you are a follower of the television series Game of Thrones then you can get a chance to set foot in the mesmerizing city of King’s Landing, which has been brought to life by the spellbinding architecture of the city of Dubrovnik. The magnificent stone walls and the glorious Sponza Palace provide a royal feel to this ancient Croatian city, whereas the bright red rooftops offer a stark contrast against the backdrop of the sapphire-blue Adriatic Sea. The city is worldly known for its long and thick defensive walls that surround the old city core. Within these walls, the grandeur of the famous Dubrovnik Cathedral has remained untarnished in the face of time, and the cobbled pathways from the bygone era are still intact. This city has somehow managed to keep the old-world charm alive. And as such, offers a good glimpse of how European fort-structured cities looked and felt like.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
As you step inside the Plitvice Lakes National Park, you will be greeted by the serenading ambiance of gushing waterfalls. This Croatian national park is particularly famous for its sixteen cascading lakes, all interconnected with waterfalls, creating one of the kind wonders of nature. It is the largest and most frequented national park in the country, abundant in vibrant flora and fauna. Pictures cannot do justice to the astonishing patterns that the gurgling streams of water create. Surrounding forests provide the perfect habitat for several species of animals, such as brown bears, wolves, and wild cats. Wooden footbridges are provided for the easy traversal of this region, with marked tracks and signs for better navigation. But for those less adventurous, boat tours are also available.
The City of Split
The second largest city of Croatia, Split is one of the most sought-after destinations because of its standing remnants of a marvelous past. The Diocletian’s Palace is the undisputed top attraction of this city and one of the most magnificent relics of the Roman Empire and the architecture in the world. Facing the harbor, the exteriors of the palace resemble an imposing fortress. However, the streets inside are bustling with activity, with shops and restaurants that are loved by locals and tourists alike. The Cathedral of St. Domnius is yet another stunning and imposing monument from the gone Roman era. Other places worth a visit include the Klis Fortress, the Temple of Jupiter, and the Archaeological Museum, each of which offers some insight into the ancient civilizations of this region.
Korcula Island
Surrounded by the glimmering waters of the Adriatic Sea is the densely vegetated island of Korcula. Bestowed with the title of Black Island by the ancient Greeks, owing to its thick pine forests. Untouched by urbanization, Korcula is a quaint town with medieval squares and rustic houses. This island is a quiet retreat that is covered with olive groves and vineyards and is perfect for those in search of peace in a more secluded destination. At the heart of the town is St. Mark’s Cathedral, standing as a perfect display of the Gothic-Renaissance architecture of the town. The Town Museum speaks of the different chapters of Korcula’s history, whereas the remnants of the towers and walls that once guarded this town create a beautiful sight against the backdrop of a sparkling sea.
Krka National Park
The Krka National Park is named after the meandering river that flows through this region. This river holds the breathtaking island of Visovac, a circular speck of land with a Franciscan monastery that now serves as a museum and library. The national park’s most famous attractions are the splendid series of waterfalls that include Skradinski Buk and Roski Slap among the favorites. And unlike Plitvice Lakes, these waters are open for recreational swimming and diving. This region is occupied by a variety of reptiles and amphibians, while on the skyline you can spot many different bird species. The idyllic scenery and the calm atmosphere are ideal for a relaxing experience. A visit to the riverside town of Skradin provides a flavor of the local culture, and its port offers a safe home for many yacht charter and boats alike.
These are just a few enchanting places that make Croatia a unique destination, attractive for travelers with varied tastes and interests. They highlight the kaleidoscope of cultural and natural treasures that this country has had.
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Author bio –
Nicholas Svensk, an audio engineer, enthusiast for hiking, off-road cycling and exploring nature in general. Enjoys traveling while trying to learn more about world history and tradition of places he is visiting. An Eco-activist and aspiring writer from time to time.
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