Refined in a European style and friendly and hospitable in the Balkan style, Croatia has earned the reputation of a democratic but very worthy resort for a reason, where thousands of compatriots flock every summer for a perfect tan and positive emotions. National customs and local cuisine, ancient sights and traditions of Croatia make a vacation unforgettable, and a trip pleasant and eventful.
Babylon in miniature
Croatia is a multinational state, and not only Croats, but also Italians and Slovenes, Bosnians and Serbs, Macedonians and even Roma live on its territory. The official language here is Croatian, but in the cities of Istria, which is adjacent to Italy, Italian also has the status of the state language. Representatives of other nationalities have not lost their dialects, and in Croatia you can hear Hungarian and Czech, Serbian and Slovenian, Albanian and even the old Romanesque dialects everywhere.
The first in the Old World
Numerous traditions of Croatia and its peoples are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Moreover, the Balkan country was in first place in Europe and in fourth in the world in terms of the number of nominations in this prestigious list. More than seventy different carnivals, festivals, folk crafts and rituals were presented by the Croats to the world, and therefore the popularity of the local tourist routes and excursions is not surprising. Among the most famous on the UNESCO list:
- Hike of the inhabitants of six villages on the island of Hvar. The ceremony is called "Behind the Cross" and is held on the eve of Easter. The religious shrine is carried on the shoulders of a person, and the participants in the procession accompany the cross for 25 kilometers without rest.
- Dubrovnik City Day and St. Vlaha. The patron saint of the most famous Croatian resort is honored on February 3.
- Lace fishery on the islands of Hvar, Pag and the town of Lepoglava. According to experts, Croatian craftswomen weave the finest and most unique lace in the world.
- Dalmatian bullfight in the village of Radosic. This Croatian tradition attracts thousands of guests to take part in popular activities such as donkey racing or drinking wine at speed.
- Knights' tournaments on the islet of Korcula on summer Thursdays. For the first time, such competitions began to be held in the 15th century, and since then they have been invariably popular with local residents. The most daring tourists can take part in the battles by renting a suit and equipment.
