Croatia: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on a historic visit to Croatia. During this tour, India and Croatia have signed several important agreements. The visit has given a new dimension to diplomatic, cultural, educational, economic and security relations between the two countries. This tour can create a strong basis for both nations in the future.
Croatia is a country in Europe, which is known for its beauty, history and culture. The country, situated on the banks of the Adriatic Sea, is famous for its blue-green waves, medieval cities and lush green forests. Despite being a small country, Croatia’s diversity surprises everyone. Whether you want to spend holidays on the beach, trekking in the mountains or lost in the streets of history, Croatia brings something for all kinds of tourists.
Introduction to Croatia
Croatia, officially called the Republic of Croatia, is inhabited in the middle and southeastern Europe. This is a small country, which resembles the shape of the moon. Its area is 56,594 square kilometers, which makes it the 127th largest country in the world. Its population is about 39 lakhs. The capital of Croatia is Jagreb, which is also its largest city. Apart from this, cities like Split, Rizka and Osizac are also important.
The country is surrounded by Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herjegovina, Montenegro and shares sea border with Italy in the west. Its coast is found from the Adriatic Sea, which makes it a hotspot for tourism.
- Croatia has 1,246 islands and small islands, out of which people live throughout the year.
- It is a member of the European Union and the Euro has been its official currency since 2023.
History of Croatia
The history of Croatia is thousands of years old. Humans have been inhabited by prehistoric times on the land here. Come, see some special things in its history:
Ancient times: Niendarthal humans have been found in Croatia, especially in Krapina, which are of the middle peliolithic period. The cultures of the newcomer and copper era, such as Starsvo and Wusedol, flourished here.
Roman Yuga: In the Roman period, part of Croatia was known as Dalmesia province. The palace of Emperor Diochletian, which is in the split today, is a magnificent specimen of that time.
Medieval: Croat people came here in the 7th century and made two Dachi. In 879, Croatia was first recognized as an independent country at the time of Duke Branimir. Tomislav became the first king in 925.
Hungary and Austria rule: In 1102, Croatia joined the individual association with Hungary. Later it became part of the Austria-Hungary Empire.
The era of Yugoslavia: In 1918, Croatia became part of the kingdom of Serb, Croats and Slovens, which later got the name Yugoslavia. In 1991, Croatia declared independence, after which there was a war with Serbas till 1991-95.
Modern Croatia: In 2013, Croatia became a member of the European Union and in 2023 it made the euro its currency.
Geography and climate
The geography of Croatia is so diverse that it can be called a precious gift of nature. Its shape is like a horseshoe, which makes it more unique.
Coast and island: There is a 1,777 km long coast along the Adriatic Sea. Krak and Cress are the largest in 1,246 islands in Croatia. Dalmesia coast is a favorite of tourists.
Mountains and grounds: The northern part of the country is part of the Panonian ground, which is famous for farming. The south has dinneric alps, where the highest peak is Dinara (1,831 m).
Rivers and Lakes: Sava, Drava, Kupa and Danube are the major rivers here. Plitwis lakes, which are UNESCO World Heritage Site, are known for their beauty.
Climate: Croatia has two types of climate. Meditarenian climate in coastal areas (warm summer, light winter) and containntal climate in northern parts (cold winters, warm summer).
Culture and people
The culture of Croatia is a mixture of Central Europe and Mediterranean cultures. People here are known for warmth and hospitality.
Population: Croat (89.6%) is the largest ethnic group here. Serb (4.5%) and other small groups (Bosniaq, Hungarian, Sloven) are also there.
Religion: 87.8% of people are Roman Catholic. Orthodox and Islam are minority religion.
Language: Croatian, which is written in the Latin script, is the official language.
Festivals: Dubrovanic Summer Festival, Jagreb Christmas Market and Sinz’s Alka (a traditional horse riding competition) are famous.
Catering: Croatian food is a mixture of meditrarenian and containntal flavor. Pasta, satyas, seafood and stroke (cheese -filled dumplings) are popular.
economy
The economy of Croatia is advanced and high-or-high. It is based on service, industry and agriculture.
Tourism: Tourism has a major contributor to Croatia’s economy. About 2 crore tourists came in 2019. Destinations like Dubrovanic, Split and Hawar are famous worldwide.
Industry: Shipbuilding, food processing and chemicals are the major industries.
Agriculture: Wheat, maize and sunflower are cultivated in the Panonian ground. In Dalmesia, wine and oil are formed from grapes and olives.
Energy: Floating LNG terminal made on the island of Krak contributes to Europe’s energy supply.
Challenges: There are still major challenges to reduce corruption and government expenses.
Tourism: Pride of Croatia
Croatia is called the ‘pearl of the Adriatic’. The natural beauty and historical heritage here draw millions of tourists every year.
Dubrovanic: UNESCO site, called Kings Landing of ‘Game of Thrones’. Its old walls and red roofs are worth seeing.
Plitwis National Park: 16 lakes and waterfalls, which are famous for their blue-green water.
Split: Diochletian palace and beaches are attractions here.
Hawar Island: Clean sea, lavender farm and party are known for vibes.
Jagreb: The soul of Croatia, where the museum, cafe and Christmas market can be enjoyed.
Environment and biodiversity
The nature of Croatia is its biggest capital. 8.5% of the country is preserved, including 8 National Parks and 11 Nature Parks.
Biodiversity: There are more than 37,000 species here, many of which are spatial. Olm, amphibians living in a cave, are found here only in the world.
Wildlife: Birds like wolves, bears, links, wild cats and flamingos are found here.
Protection: Croatia is committed to environmental protection. The Croatian Environment Agency works to reduce pollution and hebituate loss.
Politics and administration
Croatia is a parliamentary republic. The constitution here was formed in 1990.
President: Joran Milanovich was elected President for the second time in 2025. They play a formal role mainly.
Prime Minister: Andrez is the head of the Plankovic government.
Parliament: There is a single Sadan Parliament named Haravatsky Saabore, which has 151 members.
Administration: The country is divided into 20 county and Jagreb city (which is like a county).
Croatia’s global contribution
Croatia has left its mark on the international stage despite being small.
European Union: In 2013, Croatia became the 28th member. It holds 12 seats in the European Parliament.
NATO: Croatia became a member of NATO in 2009.
United Nations: In 2008-09, Croatia worked on a non-stable seat in the Security Council.
Environment: Croatia supported WHO for the Kovid-19 vaccine and also contributed against Mpox.
Croatia’s challenges
Like every country, Croatia also has to face some problems.
Economic instability: The dependence on tourism makes it a victim of global economic fluctuations.
Corruption: Despite government reforms, corruption is a major problem.
Population density: The population in rural areas is decreasing, while increasing in cities like Jagreb.
Environment: Increased construction in coastal areas is damaging biodiversity.
Why is Croatia special?
Croatia is a country that has a big heart despite being small. The Mediterranean Vibes, medieval forts and crystal clear water captivate everyone. Whether you walk on the walls of Dabrovnik, get lost in the lakes of plitvis or dance on the beach of Hawar, Croatia gives something new every time. Its culture has a mixture of Europe and Balkan, which makes it more unique.
Croatia is a country that is a great combination of history, nature and modernity. Its rich past, beautiful coast and warm people make it a hidden gem of Europe. Its growing role on the international stage and the strength of tourism make it more special. If you are looking for a place where the streets of history, blue sea and delicious food meet together, Croatia is waiting for you. So plan a holiday next time, then definitely include Croatia in your list – this will be an experience that you will never forget.
