15 Intriguing Facts About Croatia you’d Love to Know About
Written on : 01 December 2020 By : Laura Wendy Harders López
Until very recently, Croatia has been known as a hidden gem ready to be discovered. Now, it's one of thetrendiest vacation hotspots in Europe. And no wonder, because this beautiful country is full of unique treasures which foreigners feel amazed by upon their visit. Its unique landscapes, people, culture and history make it a wonderful place to include in one's travel bucket list.
There are many intriguing facts to learn about -- so keep reading, and test your fact knowledge about this fascinating country.
1) Game of Thrones was filmed in many locations across the country
If you didn't have a clue about it yet, the popular HBO's epic fantasy series "Game of Thrones" was filmed in various locations throughout the country-- making it an exciting destination for those self-proclaimed fans of the series. The most famous setting of the series -- "King's Landing"-- was doubled in the Croatian city of Dubrovnik. Tourists can also visit where they filmed the "Red Keep", the "House of the Undying", and the setting of the "Purple Wedding"-- as well as many other locations. Many foreigners visit the country exclusively to explore these beautiful places-- and are even able to book a GOT-themed guided tour if they fancy it.
2) Croatia: the country of more than 1000 islands and islets
Croatia is a marvellous sight to behold. With a coastline spanning along 1,777 km, holding more than 1000 islands and islets dotted across its sea-- whichever beach you go to, you'll feel as if you were viewing a colourful painting of unique landscapes. Most of the islands are isolated and uninhabited-- therefore, visiting these will evoke an indelible Edenic atmosphere-- not to mention the striking beauty of its fauna and flora.
3) Croatia has some of the best roads in the world -- and boasts some spectacular scenic drives
According to reports from Index in 2018, Croatia is ranked 13th in the world ranking for the best road infrastructure and has one of the highest-quality motorway networks in the world. And many studies have shown that 96% of motorways have a low or medium-low rate of traffic accidents. Furthermore, if you're into road trips-- you're in for a treat, because Croatia has some of the most spectacular scenic drives in Europe-- making it a road tripper's paradise. Located on the Adriatic coast, you'll drive along miles of curvaceous highways and zigzagging roads through wild countryside and quaint towns. Some of the best scenic drives are:
Jadranska Magistrala
Autocesta A9
State Road D66
Autocesta A3
State Road D32
4) Croatia is one of the most heavily Christian countries in Europe: 90% are Christians
Croatia is a very devoted and religious country, where its population is 90.1 % Christian, and more than 86% Catholic. However, there is an increasing amount of atheists, and a smaller percentage of Orthodox, Muslim and Protestants who all coexist in harmony and friendship.
5) The Cathedral of Saint Domnius: the oldest cathedral in the world (4th Century AD)
It comes as no surprise that the oldest cathedral in the world is located in Croatia. Known as "the Sveti Dujam" or "Sveti Duje"-- Saint Domnius is a Catholic cathedral, located in the city of Split.
6) Men from Herzegovina have been hailed as the tallest in the world.
Croats range from being averagely tall in North Croatia to very tall in South Croatia, especially in Lika, Dalmatia and Herzegovina. Nationals in Herzegovina have overtaken the Dutch-- being possibly as tall as 190 cm (nearly 6'3").
7) You can find bio-grown food in local Croatian markets at insanely cheap prices.
Healthy living will no longer hurt your pocket in Croatia, as local markets provide economically priced bio foods in comparison to the higher prices charged at supermarkets in other countries.
8) English is a widely spoken language
When planning your next trip to Croatia, you won't need to worry about the language barrier, as practically everyone speaks English. One of the possible reasons for this is that movies are never dubbed in Croatian, therefore making the Croats more familiarised with the English language.
9) Stunning locations along the coast for a delightful stroll and a rest on the beach to read a book
You will find many peaceful locations to stroll around and soak up the beautiful atmosphere of the Croatian coast-- so why not take a riveting book with you and loll on the picturesque dreamy beaches?
10) Croats love drinking coffee
Croats can spend hours in a coffee shop with friends drinking coffee. When meandering around the streets of Croatia, it's not uncommon to see local bars' terraces packed with people since early in the morning, gathered around and enjoying their lovely savoury cup of coffee in the sunshine. What's more, every waiter at a café or restaurant will first ask you if you fancy drinking a cup of coffee.
11) A Dalmation dog is named after the historical region called Dalmacija in Croatia.
Although the origins of the Dalmation dog are unknown, it was named after the historical region of Dalmacija, Croatia.
12) There are eight national parks in Croatia.
There are 444 protected areas in the country-- those of which include 8 national parks-- 1 strict reserve and 11 nature parks. The oldest and most famous one is "Plitvice Lakes National Park, endorsed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The eight natural wonders that will take your breath away are:
Krka
Plitvice Lakes
Mljet
Brijuni Islands
Kornati
Paklenica
Risnjak
Northern Velebit.
13) One of the sunniest places in Europe
For sun-seekers, Croatia is an ideal destination-- boasting around 2739 hours of sunshine per year. So come along and soak up some vitamin D!
These are the sunniest regions in the country:
Hvar – 2760 hours of sunshine per year.
Dubrovnik – 2665 hours of sunshine.
Split (Marjan Hill) – 2628 hours of sunshine.
Bol – Island of Brač – 2620 hours of sunshine.
Vela Luka – Island of Korčula – 2600 hours of sunshine.
14) The island of Cres is the last habitat for Griffon vultures.
For those seeking unique wildlife, a trip to the island of Cres is a must-- which is a refuge for the majestic griffon vultures. Therefore, not only will you be amazed to see the wondrous scenery of the island but you'll also get the chance to do some "bird watching" and spot some of these spectacular animals.
15) The longest word in Croatian is: prijestolonasljednikovičičinima
Which translates into "little heiress apparent to the throne".
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