The Croatian language has a rich and varied history, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Croatian culture over the centuries. One interesting aspect of the Croatian language is Glagoljica, an alphabet that was used by the Croats in the Middle Ages and which is considered to be the oldest Slavic alphabet.

The History of Glagoljica

The Croatian monk St. Jerome invented Glagoljica, which means “glagolitic” in Croatian, in the 9th century. This script holds the distinction of being the oldest known Slavic alphabet and was utilized by the Croats for writing religious texts and documents. Glagoljica enjoyed widespread usage in Croatia until the 12th century when it gradually yielded to the Latin alphabet.

One of the most renowned artifacts associated with the “glagolitic” language is the Bašćanska ploča. Dating back to around 1100 AD, this monument represents one of the earliest instances featuring an inscription in the Croatian recension of the Church Slavonic language. Discovered near the village of Baška on the Croatian island of Krk in 1851, it remains an invaluable historical find.

Croatia is a country that boasts a rich history and stunning natural beauty. From its stunning Adriatic coast to its picturesque national parks, there is no shortage of breathtaking sights to see. One of the most unique and interesting places to visit in Croatia are its caves. These underground wonders offer a glimpse into the country’s geology and history, and are well worth a visit when you’re in the area. Explore the top 5 caves that are particularly worth checking out when you’re in Croatia:

Vranjača Cave

Located in the city of Krapina, the Vranjača Cave is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of Croatia. This cave is home to some of the oldest Neanderthal remains ever discovered, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs. The remains, which include bones and teeth, were discovered in 1899 by Croatian paleontologist and geologist Dragutin Gorjanović-Kramberger and are estimated to be between 130,000 and 110,000 years old. The cave itself is also stunning, with impressive rock formations and underground waterfalls.

Istria, a peninsula located in western Croatia, is renowned for its delicious truffles. These prized fungi, known for their earthy and pungent flavor, are a delicacy in many high-end dishes. If you’re a foodie looking for a unique and exciting culinary adventure, truffle hunting in Istria is a must.

Truffle Hunting in Motovun

One of the best places to go truffle hunting in Istria is the city of Motovun. Located in the heart of the peninsula, Motovun is a charming and historic town that is well-known for its ‘truffle production’.

Located on the Pelješac Peninsula in southern Croatia, the City and Walls of Ston are a testament to the rich history of the Republic of Dubrovnik. Built in the 14th century, the walls stretch for 5.5 kilometers and are considered some of the best-preserved fortifications in Europe.

The Origins of the City and Walls of Ston

The Republic of Dubrovnik, also known as the Republic of Ragusa, was a maritime and merchant republic that flourished in the 14th and 15th centuries. It was a major power in the Adriatic Sea and had a diverse and multi-ethnic population. Despite being well protected by massive city walls (Today’s Dubrovnik City Walls), the Republic of Ragusa used the island Pelješac to build another line of defense. This way, they also ensured that the valuable salt production in Ston was well protected.

In the late 13th century, the Republic of Dubrovnik realized the need to build a fortified city and walls to protect its citizens and valuable trade routes. The city and walls of Ston were constructed between 1333 and 1357, with the walls being completed in 1358.

As a family-friendly destination, Croatia offers a wealth of activities and attractions for children of all ages. From the stunning beaches of Dubrovnik to the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy. However, there are a few things you should know before planning your trip to Croatia with kids.

General tips

• The weather can be quite hot in the summer months. Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and protective clothing.
• Croatia has a rich history and culture, and there are many educational and interactive museums and attractions that will appeal to kids. For example, the Croatian Museum of Naive Art in Zagreb features a variety of colorful, folk-inspired paintings and sculptures. By contrast, the Dubrovnik City Walls offer a unique glimpse into the city’s medieval past.
• The country’s stunning natural beauty is perfect for outdoor adventures. Take a boat tour along the Dalmatian Coast, go hiking in the Plitvice Lakes National Park, or explore the caves at Vranjača if your kids are interested in Neandertals.
• Croatia’s beaches are some of the best in Europe, and many offer kid-friendly amenities such as playgrounds and shallow waters. For sandy beaches with easy access check out the island of Rab – Rajska beach in Lopar for example is perfect for a fun beach day with kids.
• Croatian food is delicious, but it may be different from what your kids are used to. Be sure to try some local specialties, such as pasticada (a slow-cooked beef dish) and cevapi (grilled minced meat rolls). However, don’t be afraid to ask for more familiar options like pizza and pasta at restaurants.

Croatia’s tricolor flag is a national symbol of pride and unity for the people of Croatia. It features three horizontal bands of red, white, and blue, with the coat of arms of Croatia in the center. But where did this distinctive flag come from, and what does it represent? Let’s explore the rich history of the Croatian flag.

Prehistoric and Ancient Origins

The area now known as Croatia has a long and storied history, dating back to prehistoric times. The region was settled by Illyrian tribes, who are believed to have used symbols similar to the Croatian flag. In fact, the colors red, white, and blue have been associated with Croatia for centuries, and are thought to represent the natural beauty of the country’s landscapes and skies.

Croatia is home to ten UNESCO World Heritage sites, each representing a unique aspect of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Seven of those sites are located in Croatia, whereas three are transnational sites. From ancient ruins and medieval castles to natural parks and protected islands, these sites showcase the diverse beauty and history of Croatia. In this article, we will explore all ten of Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites in detail, including their history, things to do, and how to get there. We will also highlight nearby cities and attractions that are worth visiting while you’re in the area.

The Cathedral of St. James in Šibenik

The Cathedral of St. James in Šibenik is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture, built entirely of stone in the 15th and 16th centuries. The cathedral is known for its intricate stone carvings and sculptures, including the famous “Lion’s Head” portal and the chapel of St. John the Baptist. Inside, visitors can see the beautifully decorated choir, altar, and sacristy, as well as the treasury, which contains a collection of religious artifacts and artworks.

Things to do at the site:

• Tour the cathedral and admire the architectural details and artworks
• Climb to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views of Šibenik and the surrounding area
• Visit the nearby St. Michael’s Fortress, a well-preserved medieval castle with a rich history

How to get there:

The Cathedral of St. James is located in the center of Šibenik, a coastal city in central Dalmatia. The city is easily accessible by car, bus, or train from other major cities in Croatia, such as Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik.

Nearby cities and attractions:

• Split: a historic city known for its Roman ruins and lively atmosphere
• Krka National Park: a beautiful natural park with waterfalls and hiking trails
• Kornati National Park: a group of islands with clear blue waters and picturesque beaches

Bare Island, also known as Goli Otok in Croatian, is a small, uninhabited island located off the coast of Croatia in the Adriatic Sea. It can be reached via boat from the island of Rab. While it may seem like an idyllic and peaceful place at first glance, the island has a dark and disturbing history.

Dark history of Goli Otok – The Yugoslavian Regime

During the Yugoslavian regime, Bare Island was used as a political prison, where prisoners were sent to be imprisoned and punished for their perceived opposition to the communist government.

The Yugoslavian regime, which was in power from 1945 to 1992, was a communist government led by Josip Broz Tito. Tito was a controversial figure, and his government was known for its strict control over the country and its citizens. Political dissidents and anyone perceived as a threat to the government were often imprisoned or exiled to Bare Island.