The architectural monuments of Croatia especially clearly reflect the long and difficult historical path that it had to overcome on the path to independence. Here, each city has its own unique characteristics and features that characterize a certain historical era.

Roman antiquity can be observed in the city of Pula, for example, the perfectly preserved Colosseum of the 1st century and the Temple of Augustus, and in the city of Split - the Palace of Diocletian of the 4th century.

Influence Byzantium especially strongly felt in the city of Poreč: the complex of the Euphrasian Basilica of the 3rd - 5th centuries. and in the town Salon- basilica V-VI centuries.

In the 15th-16th centuries, in the face of the threat of the Ottoman invasion, the construction of fortified cities began, which were built on the Adriatic coast to protect against Turkish raids. Of the fifty such fortresses, one cannot fail to mention the oval Great Tabor with powerful towers (XVI century) and Karlovac, an “ideal” city built during the Renaissance in the shape of a six-pointed star. In general, the cities of the Adriatic coast had an ancient building plan that came from time immemorial.

Sculpture of Croatia

Julie Klovic or Don Giulio Clovio(1498-1578) - a prominent representative of classical European miniatures. He is Croatian in origin, but his works have global significance and decorate famous galleries in Florence, Naples, Paris, New York, London. El Greco himself was his student, and the great Michelangelo was one of his friends.

Another famous painter Andrija Medulic(Andrea Meldola Niadra, ~1563) began his career as an artist in Sibenik and then continued in Venice. Like JuliaKlovic, he influenced creativity El Greco. Myself Tintoretto stated that any true painter must possess at least one of his masterpieces. His works of art are scattered throughout Europe (Zadar, Sibenik, Zagreb, Venice, Milan, Naples, Paris, London, Richmond, Dublin, Amsterdam, Vienna, Dresden, St. Petersburg, Belgrade).

The national liberation movement of the mid-19th century was reflected in realistic portraiture. An outstanding painter of this period was Vlaho Bukovac(1855-1922). He worked most of his life in Paris and painted numerous portraits of representatives different families, to which he was included as a friend and guest. From 1903 to 1922 he was a professor at the Academy of Arts in Prague.

He was a widely known guitar virtuoso. Ivan Padovich(1800-1873), who gave concerts with constant success in Zagreb, Vienna, Prague, Budapest, Hamburg, London, Russia. Franjo Kresma born in Osijek in 1862, already at the age of 17 he became famous as a violin virtuoso and was invited as a soloist to the Royal Orchestra in Berlin. He had the honor of playing with Franz Liszt. He was applauded in Rome, Paris, Prague, Vienna, Genoa. Unfortunately, the brilliant musician died in a very early age- at 19 years old. Lovers classical music Of course you are familiar with creativity Zagreb Soloists, under the leadership Tonko Ninicha. It is also impossible not to mention: Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra; composer Blagoju Bersa from Dubrovnik (1873-1934); violinist Zlatko Balokovic(1895-1965); conductor Lovro von Matacic(1899-1985) and many others. The composer, conductor and teacher made a significant contribution to the development of Croatian musical culture Ivan Zaits(1831-1914), author of approximately 200 choral and 170 song works, 20 operas, including national-patriotic content.

Croatian literature

Glagolitic. Bash tablet Emergence Croatian writing date back to the beginning of the 9th century. Followers took part in its creation Cyril and Methodius. The most ancient monument Croatian writing, dating back to 1102, is located on the island of Krk. This is a stone slab with an inscription made Glagolitic. There are also later monuments written in Cyrillic. The first Croatian books were liturgical and were used in church rituals. At the same time, we must take into account the interesting fact that The Roman Catholic Church, as an exception, allowed Croatian clergy to conduct liturgies not in Latin, but in Church Slavonic, a related language Croatian, but different from the generally accepted language. The first liturgical books, and from the 12th century. and official documents, were written in Glagolitic alphabet. But, starting from the 14th century. The Latin alphabet is increasingly used. It became most widespread in the 15th century. By this time, Croatia already had a lot of works in the local language, including the lives of saints, fairy tales, legends, folk songs, and proverbs. The first poetic works Croats became prayers.

In the XV-XVI centuries. among famous poets and playwrights of the era Croatian Revivals stand out Marko Marulic(1450-1524) from the city of Dubrovnik (Dubrovnik), who wrote many religious, historical and poetic works, as well as Marin Drzic(1510-1567), outstanding comedian. Marco Marulic created a famous epic poem based on the biblical story "Judith" » (1501), considered a traditional classic Croatian literature. Marin Drzic became famous for his comedies. He is considered the Croatian Shakespeare and the predecessor of Moliere in European drama.

In the 17th century Poetic works became the pinnacle of Croatian literary creativity Ivan Gundulich (1588 - 1638) from Dubrovnik, written under the influence of Italian poetry.

Illyrian movement 1830-1840s had a great influence on Croatian culture, giving preference to the achievements of the Renaissance and Baroque. In 1842, a national Literary and Scientific Society "Matitsa Illyrian" or "Matica Croatian", which had a significant influence on the cultural and literary life of Croatia. A prominent representative of Illyrianism was a poet, scientist, public and politician(1809-1872). The main means of cultural unification Croats and the southern Slavs, he considered a common language, which was based, in his opinion, Shtokavian dialect. A grammar was published in 1836 "Illyrian" language, and in 1850 Croatian and Serbian linguists entered into an agreement on the principles of a single language, which resulted in the rapid development of fiction.

In this regard, creativity should be noted Miroslav Krlezha (1893-1981), whose work "The Return of Philip Latinovich" was a striking work that marked the beginning of the revival Croatian literature in the 30s of the XX century. Detective novels have gained great popularity Pavao Pavlicic, published in Zagreb, as well as works Dubravki Ugresic, in which a lot of space is devoted to problem analysis Croatian society after independence. Interesting for readers interested in history modern society, presents the book Slovenian women Drakulic "Balkan Express: fragments from the other side of the war".

Traditions of Croatia

Everyone Croats national pride is inherent to one degree or another. They like to emphasize their difference from their Balkan neighbors. However, the fact that Croats are heirs of Mediterranean culture, often catches the eye. How much does a traditional evening party cost? "korzo"- a walk in the early evening in the city center or along the embankment, when everyone is looking at each other with interest. At the same time, one goal is pursued - to see people and show yourself. Such close attention to each other is not considered something indecent here - it’s the same as looking at a work of art in one of the museums. The best thing about this Croatian tradition that anyone can join it.

Another equally widespread tradition, a tribute to the Ottoman influence, is the love of sweets and strong coffee, which is usually tasted in a small cafe among close friends and is accompanied by a leisurely confidential conversation.

Some traditional ritual rituals also remained in the country. Croatian customs. So, after the marriage ceremony, married relatives remove the bride’s veil and instead put on her a scarf and an apron, symbolizing her married status. Then all those gathered walk around the well three times (which means the Holy Trinity) and throw apples into it (a symbol of wealth).

In Croatia, ancient forms of traditional music and dance are carefully preserved; moreover, they also play an important role in everyday life population, being an inexhaustible source that constantly feeds the national culture. The most famous dance in the local area is “ colo", performed by dancers in a circle. This is a beautiful, fast, unrestrained dance, accompanied by frantic playing of violinists. Perhaps he is part of the ancient Slavic ritual sun worship. Fully enjoy the skill of the performers colo possible during International Folklore Festival, which takes place annually in July.

The national culture of Croatia is deep and original, it bears the imprint of a unique geographical location country and long periods of foreign rule. Despite its long-term dependence on foreign powers, it managed not only to maintain its vibrant identity and individuality, but also to flourish even more and rise to new heights. This was made possible thanks to to the Croatian people, whose distinctive character trait is a strong national identity and pride in his small, beautiful, independent country.

World famous for the production of lace from threads obtained from agave leaves. Good examples of primitive architecture are the churches located in the regions from the Istrian peninsula to the Bay of Kotor. These unique ancient buildings are decorated with architectural designs of the primitive era.

Croatia is proud of its 13 centuries of long history, as well as its main attractions, monuments, and outstanding people. This country, in addition to being home to six World Heritage Sites and eight national parks, is also famous for the invention of the fountain pen. Also, a scarf-type tie was invented here. The country is known for its rich history, its literary talents, and artistic creations.

In Croatia, despite its rather small territory, it is held huge amount festivals and holidays that have grown into the traditions of the country and become its calling card.

By right, Zagreb can be considered a city of festivals, because festivals for every taste are held there: in April - the Music Biennale, in June - the cartoon festival and the St. Mark's festival, in July - the international festival of the new theater "Eurokaz" and the international folklore festival .

The international festival of puppet theaters (August-September), as well as the summer festival of the city of Zagreb (July-August), the flower exhibition "Flora-art" (June), the international fair of the city of Zagreb, the international Jazz Days (October) are also considered famous outside of Croatia ).

Festivals and celebrations are also held in other cities of Croatia: in Dubrovnik - the St. Blaise Carnival, an international summer festival; in Porechye - Folklore Festival (June), Musical Summer Festival (May-September), International Folklore Festival (August), Summer Art Exhibition.

Near the city of Cooley - Opera Music Festival, Film Festivals; in Vodice - International Music Festival; in Split - the Feast of the Holy Spirit - and all these are just traditional summer events of an idle life Croatia. Rich in traditional holidays and autumn time From the end of August until September, Zadar hosts an annual pirate festival, a city fair and the Dalmatian Song Festival.

The city of Rovinj is also interesting for its traditions. In early May, the Rovinj-Pesaro sailing regatta starts from the Rovinj shores, the Rovinj Fair is held in August, the yacht races are held in September, and in the second half of September Rovinj turns into a place of pilgrimage in honor of St. Euphemia.

Since 1364, crossbow competitions have been organized on Rabyn Island in the spring (May 9) or summer (July 27). A little later, from the end of the 15th century, knightly games “Moreška” and “Kumpania” began to be held on the island of Korcula. This tradition has been preserved in Croatia to this day, with the onset of summer, every Thursday the islanders of Korcula and onlooker tourists flock to a special site, where they enjoy watching knightly battles, and sometimes participating in them themselves!

There is such a region in Croatia - Dalmatia. There, once a year in the village of Radosic, the “Dalmatian bullfight” is held, in which bulls fight each other. It is very difficult to get to this holiday, since to do this you need to know the date of its holding (and it is always different) and the route. This holiday is a unique local tradition and is celebrated exclusively as a national holiday, avoiding show elements. On this day, men's competitions are also held. various types folk sports - there is also a place for rope competitions, standing jumps, stone throwing, and well wrestling. It is especially funny and interesting to watch donkey races. The main task is to sit on the back of a donkey and hold on. And this is quite difficult to do, since the donkey clearly does not want to hold anyone on its back and constantly strives to throw off the rider, jumping up and kicking. By the way, in these races no elements of harness (saddles, bridles, harnesses) are used.

Music Croatia was strongly influenced by the musical styles of the Mediterranean, Balkans, and Central Europe. appeared here musical genre“klapa”, whose songs sing about love for the country, the villages and villages of the country, and the coasts and beaches of the country. Dance music accompanied by Euro dances has become very popular in the country.

In the very heart of Europe, where the continental land on the western side meets the waters of the Adriatic Sea, amazing Croatia is hidden, carefully protecting and skillfully preserving its cultural and natural wealth. Tourists seeking a long-awaited vacation by the sea and hungry for natural beauty turned their attention to Croatia relatively recently and were not disappointed. Croatia's distinctive attractions include a number of national parks, medieval castles, ancient and modern architectural monuments. Unique natural resources in the form of individual islands and waterfalls, as well as the unique beauty of sunsets at sea, create an aura of exciting exclusivity and unknown ancient secrets around the country.

1. Old Town in Dubrovnik

The Old Town of Dubrovnik is a unique citadel of Croatian cultural attractions located in the country's most visited spa town. In fact, this is a part of Dubrovnik, surrounded by fortress walls, the total length of which is only 2 km. Construction was carried out here and settlements existed back in the 7th century, and the 7th century is considered to be the time of its foundation. The city streets were completely destroyed twice, the first time this happened as a result of tremors in the Middle Ages, and again the area was severely damaged due to the armed conflict between the Croats and Serbs in the late 90s of the last century.

Now the city has been rebuilt, and cultural monuments have been restored. The latter include the Princely Palace and the tower crowning the 25-meter fortifications. From there you have an impressive view of the Adriatic coast.

2. Pula Amphitheater

This landmark was inherited by Croatia from the Roman Empire. Built in the 1st century AD with the aim of providing the people with much-needed spectacle and bread, the Pula Amphitheater regularly served as a huge arena for gladiator fights. In the Middle Ages, knights fought here and fair trade took place. A complete restoration of the arena was carried out during modern history.

Tourists can fully appreciate the ancient heritage, considered the sixth largest surviving amphitheater in the world. You can walk not only around the square itself, but also go down to the cellars, where many centuries ago glorious warriors and wild dangerous animals waited to appear on a unique stage. In fact, the arena has not lost its purpose; it is still a space for historical festivals dedicated to the ancient world.

3. Plitvice Lakes

The Plitvice Lakes National Nature Reserve, listed as a UNESCO-protected site, is objectively the main natural attraction of Croatia. You should set aside a separate day for your visit: unique natural complex covers a significant area and is located five hours from the famous Dubrovnik.

This place became popular in the 80s of the last century, when the administration began to actively develop the park as a tourist route. Paths, places to rest, and navigation stands were installed. Soon the royal family from Austria visited the park, and the fame of Croatia’s natural national wealth began to gain momentum.

The shortest route through the reserve lasts 2 hours; for a complete overview, it is preferable to choose a route lasting 7 hours. A protected area is a separate ecological system capable of self-recovery. To preserve this property and the natural balance, there are a number of rules for tourists who are asked not to light fires, not to throw garbage, not to swim in ponds and not to deviate from the paved paths.

There are a total of 140 waterfalls here, new watercourses are formed regularly, the number of lakes is 16. The water is impeccably clean and amazing color scheme, with predominant shades of turquoise, green and blue. Trout live in the lakes, and wild animals have been spotted in the protected wilderness. For lovers of long hikes, accommodation is available in one of three hotels.

4. Diocletian's Palace

The Roman emperor, after whom the palace in one of the largest cities in the country, Split, is named, can serve as an example of building a brilliant career from the very bottom. Once this man was a simple Roman soldier in the legion, a military coup put him at the head of the Empire. On three hectares, the newly-minted emperor demonstrated his desire for architectural experiments and innovations. With his death, the palace began to serve as a refuge for ordinary people who want to hide from barbarian invasions.

Now Diocletian's palace is partially inhabited, and the surrounding area resembles a miniature town. Dates are made here, holidays and festivals take place here. Among the most interesting places are the Museum of National Culture and the Bell Tower of St. Douai, which offers an inspiring view of Split.

5. Stradun Street in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is considered the hallmark of resort Croatia. This is where the best beaches and most colorful attractions of the country are concentrated. One of them is Stradun Street.

Existing back in the 9th century, it was a connecting link between two settlements (Ragusa and Dubrava). In the Middle Ages, all local buildings were characterized by a lack of order in their arrangement, but the issue was resolved by itself, due to a natural disaster. In the second half of the 17th century there was an earthquake and then a fire. The appearance of the street was rebuilt, all buildings were subordinated to a single architectural solution. Two fountains on the outskirts have survived to this day.

The modern appearance of the street fully corresponds to the European mood of freedom while maintaining enlightenment. On major holidays, open-air concerts and parades are held on Stradun Street; on weekdays, cozy restaurants and cafes open their doors, and entertainment events are organized.

6. Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Dubrovnik

Like many attractions in Croatia, the cathedral is located in that part of Dubrovnik, which is commonly called the Old Town. The religious building, judging by archaeological finds of ancient elements, existed as early as the sixth century. However, there is a beautiful legend that the cathedral of extraordinary splendor was built by order of King Richard the Lionheart, who in the 11th century was shipwrecked off the coast of South Dalmatia while returning from a crusade. Thoughts of a miraculous salvation prompted the crowned lady to order the construction of a temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary on this site. Historically, this legend is not supported by facts, therefore it exists only in the status of an adjective.

Over the years, the cathedral has undergone many restoration works, the largest of which took place in the 17th century after destructive seismic activity in the region and at the end of the 20th century after the end of hostilities. Interior decoration amazes with its cultural value, because on the walls there are preserved artwork masters from Renaissance Italy.

7. Kastel Fortress

The largest settlement on the Istrian peninsula, with the short name Pula, is famous not only for its ancient origins and cozy atmosphere, but also for its rare defensive structure of the 16th century. In ancient times protective function the Kastel fortress, carried out with the help of cannons, patrol platforms and dug deep ditches, was its main purpose. The fortress was once a military stronghold of the Venetian Republic, later it was occupied by the Austrians, and in recent history it was noted as the location of the Yugoslav army. Now it is a historical monument of Croatia and a location for summer holidays, celebrations and concerts. There is a museum dedicated to maritime affairs on the territory, and nearby there is an eccentric row of sculptures.

8. Trakoscan

The architectural sights of Croatia are shrouded in an unshakable flair of legends, tales with a special mood, characteristic only of the Balkan peoples. Ancient castle Trakoščan, located near Varazdin, is one of such memorable places. Ownership passed from private hands to state ownership and back again several times. Initially, the structure had a defensive purpose and belonged to representatives of knightly families. In the 16th century, with the death of the last heir, the castle became the property of the king, who soon granted it as a gift to the Draskovic family.

Later, the family nest periodically underwent moments of desolation and transformation. As a result of one of the reconstructions, it acquired neo-Gothic outlines in its appearance and was framed by a picturesque garden. When the descendants of the family were forced to give up ownership, the castle again went to the state. A museum was opened here in the 50s. The exhibition composition is represented by a collection of paintings and weapons; the exterior is interesting to those who understand the mixture architectural styles And original solutions in landscape design.

9. Krka National Park

National Park Krka, which stretches along the banks of the river of the same name, can safely be considered a national natural heritage of Croatia. This place is an impressive concentration of unique natural attractions and ancient architecture.

The dominant feature of the park is 7 waterfalls, characterized by a cascading shape. Two ancient monasteries are examples of medieval architecture. One of them belonged to the followers of the humble teaching of Francis of Assisi, the second was related to Orthodox architecture. The fate of the last building is quite sad: the temple was repeatedly destroyed almost to the ground, first by the Turks in the 17th century, then during the War of Independence. The final restoration was completed in 2001. You can learn more about the historical and geographical significance of the area by visiting the Museum of Ethnography. Here you can also observe how natural energy sources are used: mills operate, driven by turbulent streams of water.

In Krka Park you are allowed to swim in specially designated areas. The administration takes care of the safety of the facility. Separate trails and routes have been laid out for tourists, walks along which do not cause disturbance and do not harm the fauna living in the area.

10. Porec Old Town

In the Croatian city of Porec there is an area whose architecture clearly reflects various historical periods over a wide range of time. Thus, there are buildings dating back to the Byzantine era, the years of Ottoman rule, as well as clear evidence of the presence of the ancient Romans. The Euphrasian Basilica, which was handed down to contemporaries as a model of architecture from the Byzantines, is under the protection of UNESCO. Many tourists strive to visit this cultural center, as well as the Marafor Forum. The current appearance of this part of the city hospitably welcomes guests: everywhere there are cafes, restaurants and small shops where you can buy pleasant little things as souvenirs to remember the atmospheric Porec. It will be very interesting to visit this place in Croatia.

11. Mimara Museum

Located in the Croatian capital, the modernized Renaissance-style building was built specifically to house Mr. Mimara's extensive art collection. The owner of many original works by the greatest painters and sculptors lived in Austria for many years, but wanted to place the priceless property in the museum space in Zagreb. In the halls of the Mimara Museum you can see works by Raphael, Rembrandt, Houdon, Rodin, Velazquez and even Van Gogh. More than 3 thousand outstanding exhibits are available for viewing by guests of the capital’s museum, which can be reached either by taxi or by public transport.

12. Great Tabor

The next attraction of Croatia that will be interesting for tourists to visit is the medieval castle Veliki Tabor. It is located on a hill 219 meters high, 40 km from the capital. Nearest populated area- Desinich.

The castle changed owners several times, the fortress walls reliably preserve poetic legends and secrets of honorable families in the same way as they protected the freedom of the people during the Turkish raids. The architecture of the castle harmoniously intertwined historical changes. For almost three centuries the castle belonged to the Rattkai family; in the 20th century it was bought and completely restored by the artist Ivekovic.

In current conditions, tourists can freely walk around the castle’s courtyard, where there is a thirty-meter well, and visit the halls where an exhibition of weapons and ancient household items is displayed. You can diversify your excursion visit with a trip to the winery, where some varieties of wine are available for tasting. The exhibition is also endowed with mystical features: in the chapel there is the skull of a peasant woman who died at a young age and fell in love with the heir of the castle. The grounds of the estate are often used as a center for the screening of short films and a space for retrospective travel.

13. Lovrijenac Fortress

Dubrovnik, Croatia, is home to one of the most legendary city fortifications, with many glorious moments in its history. The Lovrijenac fortress was built to protect Southern Dalmatia from the soldiers of the Venetian Republic. The latter often approached this territory from the sea and from land, intending to independently build their own fortress here and thereby designate the state affiliation of this region. However, local residents managed to build the fort earlier; it took only one season. Despite the accelerated stages of construction, the structure turned out to be extremely strong, durable and strategically effective.

In current conditions, the fortress is part of the walls around the historical part of the city and is listed under the auspices of UNESCO. The place where the fortification was built is noteworthy - a rocky cliff. Uneven surface landscape - the reason for the need for a triangular fortress. The most recent architectural addition is a theater. Regularly on holidays and memorable days On the territory of this landmark of Croatia, performances are held, the success of which is due, among other things, to natural scenery.

14. City of Omis

This picturesque corner of Croatia is commonly called a pirate haven. During the existence and rule of the Venetian Republic, militant detachments hunted in local waters, simultaneously defending the port territory from land and sea. Their fast and powerful ships had a ringing reputation. Everything that was captured during the battles was sold to local residents, who easily entered into trade relations with the so-called pirates.

Now the city has retained its port status; fishing, textile production and tourism are developed here. The sea coast and the beach, stretching for 12 km, are considered a special asset. The coastline outlines bays, coves, and rocky areas, forming unique landscapes that are extremely breathtaking and peaceful. Various water activities are organized on the Cetina River, which forms an estuary in the city and carries water to the Adriatic Sea. Here you can go rafting, kayaking and canoeing. Among the active leisure activities at sea, popular water skiing and surfing are available.

Croatia is sometimes called Nice on the Adriatic coast. Holidays here are filled with a certain feeling of safety and tranquility without compromising the variety of positive impressions. The memorable sights of Croatia, concentrated in the country's largest cities and hidden in nature reserves, attract many visitors who want to discover Europe from an unknown and sometimes unexpected side.

Croats represent the majority of the country's population. Serbs are in second place by number of inhabitants. The former are Catholics, and the latter are Orthodox believers. On Sundays, you can see how Catholic churches are overcrowded - Catholicism is confidently consolidating its position after the fall of socialism in the country.

Some ritual customs are also alive in Croatia. For example, after the marriage ceremony, married relatives remove the veil from the bride and instead put on a headscarf and apron. This symbolizes the married position. Then all the guests walk around the well three times and throw apples into it - a symbol of wealth.

A large number of villages in Croatia are represented by one- and two-story wooden buildings, which are processed natural stone. Concrete buildings appeared in the country's cities only after World War II.

Women in Croatia have more equal rights with men than in other former Yugoslav republics.

Croatian folk music consists of many different styles. A Slavic dance called kolo is danced to the accompaniment of gypsy violins or tambura, a Croatian mandolin. The sounds of the Dalmatian guitar and accordion are similar to Italian music.

Croatia hosts a huge number of holidays and festivals, which have already grown into the traditions of the country. And Zagreb is considered the city of festivals. Here in April the Music Biennale is held, in June the St. Mark's Festival and the Cartoon Festival are held, in July - the International Folklore Festival and the International Festival of the New Theater "Eurokaz".

The international festival of puppet theaters, the flower exhibition “Flora-art”, and the international Jazz Days became famous outside of Croatia.

From the point of view of traditions, the city of Rovinj is interesting. Here the Rovinj-Pesaro sailing regatta begins in May, the Rovinj Fair takes place in August, and yacht races are held in September, and by the end of this month the city becomes a place of pilgrimage in honor of St. Euphemia.

A rather interesting tradition has been preserved in Croatia on the island of Korcula: here, every Thursday, with the onset of summer, islanders and tourists watch knightly battles, and sometimes even take part in them themselves.

Once a year, in the Dalmatia region in the village of Radosic, the “Dalmatian bullfight” takes place - bullfights. It is difficult to get to this holiday, since its date and route are always different. This is a unique local tradition. Also on this day, men's competitions are held different types folk sport. Donkey racing looks pretty funny. The main task of these competitions is to sit on a donkey and hold on, which is very difficult, since the donkey is constantly trying to throw off its rider.

As for the rules of conduct in the country, smoking in public places is prohibited in Croatia. Large cafes have special smoking rooms.

The crime rate in Croatia is very low, but it is recommended to leave valuables, documents and large sums of money in the hotel safe.

In general, Croatia is a Catholic country, ethnic Croats are Catholics, ethnic Serbs, who are in the minority, are Orthodox. Ancient ritual traditions are still alive, often they can be found only in rural areas, for example, these traditions may relate to wedding procedures, holidays and folk festivals.

Unlike other former Yugoslav republics, women in Croatia have more rights, of course it cannot be said that they are as many as men, but still.

Note that UNESCO included in the list cultural heritage a record number of cultural and folk values ​​from Croatia for a European country, and this is the fourth largest in the world.

The church procession “Behind the Cross” on the island of Hvar is on the list of cultural heritage, and this religious procession for 25 kilometers, led by a person bearing a large cross, residents of all surrounding villages take part in the tradition. The tradition of lace weaving also came from the island of Hvar, as did the island of Pag.

Dubrovnik celebrated its holiday of St. Blaise, who is the patron saint of this city, the holiday takes place annually on the third of February. The town of Kastav hosts an annual carnival of "ringers".

The Istra Peninsula was noted for its duets performing songs to music. The Spring procession of Lelye from Goryan and the production of wooden children's toys in the city of Zagorje were noted.

In addition to the official traditions listed above, noted by UNESCO, let us also remember the famous Croatian carpets self made, various embroideries, leather goods, ceramics, porcelain, crystal and copper.

Traditionally, many resort towns in Croatia host festivals and carnivals both in summer and winter. For example, in the capital city of Zagreb in the summer in June there is a festival of St. Mark, in July an international folklore festival, an international festival of the new theater "Eurokaz", a summer festival, a flower exhibition "Flora-art", at the end of summer the international festival of puppet theaters begins, in October International Jazz Days.

In Dubrovnik in the summer there is an international summer festival, as well as the St. Blaze Carnival, in Porec there is a Folklore Festival, a Music Summer Festival and an art exhibition.

Split has the Feast of the Holy Spirit and musical theater festivals in July and August. In Zadar in the summer there is a song festival and a pirate festival, on the island of Rab in May and in the summer an archery festival, in the village of Radosic there is an interesting old tradition conducting bullfights in the manner of Spanish bullfighting customs.

But you shouldn’t chase such traditions to remote places; in every city on the Adriatic coast, a public cultural event called evening “korzo” is held in the evening, which involves a promenade along the embankment or along the central streets of cities with the intention of showing off and looking at others. As a matter of fact, this tradition greatly distinguishes Croatia from the background Western Europe, where no one cares about what the people around them look like, what they are wearing and what they are doing, while in Croatia it is not shameful to stare at passers-by, so it is not bad form to discuss the people around you, for example, in our country only grandmothers suffer from this, sitting on benches in the courtyards.

The Croats try to stand out in everything from the common Balkan traditions of their neighbors, but much remains common, and these are the traditional Kolo folk dances with violin playing, which are similar to the Russian round dance.

Croats are proud of their small country, proud of the independence they received, although it was quite expensive.

Population in Croatia

About 4,285,000 people live in Croatia, among them the majority are Croats, which is 90.5%, Serbs 4.35%, Bosnians 0.17%, Italians 0.42%, Hungarians 0.33%, Roma 0.4% , Slovenes 0.25%, Albanians 0.41% and other nationalities. A quarter of the population lives in the area around the capital city of Zagreb.

Only the Serbs can be considered a large national minority in Croatia, who mainly live in Gorski Kotar, Lika and Slavonia, the majority of Italians live in Istria, the Czechs in the city of Daruvar, the Hungarians in the border areas with this country, the Roma and Bosnians everywhere.

Unlike the coast of Montenegro, Croatia is not distinguished by a large number of Russian-speaking migrants; from this point of view, Russian migrants in this country are very rare.

Life expectancy in Croatia is 71 years for men and 79 years for women. The fertility rate is 1.4, which is not a high result.

Rules of conduct in Croatia

Traditions of behavior in Croatia can be reminiscent of Italy; there is a very high national consciousness and pride in independence. The rules of greeting here are exactly the same as for us, women are surprisingly emancipated, this is very striking in comparison with other republics of the former Yugoslavia.

Don’t be surprised if you see locals in national clothes on the streets; such clothes can be worn here for no reason.

Local men are very hot, and the same goes for their habit of caring for women. Men are distinguished by their taste in clothing; it is not for nothing that the tie was invented in Croatia.

In shops, cafes and hotels you can try to use the Russian language; Croats and Russians at the everyday level will always understand each other. However, Croatia is a Catholic country. The attitude towards Russians is positive, but Croatia cannot be called a country of mass tourism from Russia.