Croatia Group
A group dedicated to providing learning resources, admiration and travel guides to this beautiful European country. Here, you will be able to access information about the language, culture and important regions of Croatia, along with helpful links.
Country Information
Location: A crescent-shaped country bordered by Slovenia and Hungary to the north, Serbia to the east, Bosnia & Herzegovena and Montenegro to the south, and across the Adriatic Sea from Italy.Demographics: The country has a land size of 21,831 square miles, and a population of 4,555,000 (as of 7/2007). The Dinaric Alps runs through the country, along the coast of the Adriatic.
Politics: Croatia is a democratic republic, as of its 1990 constitution. It currently functions under a parliamentary system. Presidents serve 5-year terms with a limit of 2 consecutive terms, and act as the head of state, commander in chief of the armed forces, and influence on foreign policy. A Prime Minister is appointed to act as a representative of the Parliament, therefore setting limits of the President's power.
Economy: Croatian economy is dominated by shipbuilding, food processing and chemical production. The tourism industry is growing rapidly, thanks to the stability of the region in the past decade. Croatia is a candidate of the European Union and is under the motions of becoming a member. Its currency is the Kuna (see the exchange rate).
Demographics: The top five ethnicities are as follows: The bulk of the country is inhabited by native Croats (at 89.6%), followed by Serbs (4.5%), Bosnians (0.5%), Italians (0.4%) and Hungarians (0.37%). As for religion, Roman Catholics encompass the majority (87.8%), followed by Orthodox (4.4%), and Muslim (1.3%). More info can be seen here.
Official Websites:
:: The Croatian Government's website
:: Official National Tourist Board
Great Resources
:: FindCroatia
:: MyCroatia
:: Croatian Homepage (general information)
:: Travel Hub & Guide
:: Croatian World Network (a directory of info)
:: Wikipedia's Croatia Portal
:: Hrvatski Auto Klub - road safety and live webcams
More Resources:
Croatia | Information About the Country | Croatia Tourism
Accommodation in Croatia | The best value for your more...1 point
Hoteles en Segovia
Hoteles en Segovia1 point
Hoteles en Valencia
Hoteles en Valencia1 point
Toledo hoteles
Toledo hoteles1 point
Hoteles en Salamanca
Hoteles en Salamanca1 point
Medicinska masaza | Hana medical masaza zagreb
Masaa | Strucno osoblje Hana medical centra Vam more...0 points
Croatia Tourism | Accommodation
Croatia Tourism, tours croatia, hrvatska, apartman more...0 points
Josip Broz Tito
This article is about a charismatic man that kept more...0 points
Taste of Croatia
If you have been to Croatia than you know what I'm more...0 points
Places in Croatia UNESCO Marked as World Heritage
Croatia, although rather small country, has it all more...0 points
Professor Balthazar
Professor Balthazar was born 1967 and the day he w more...0 points
Old City Dubrovnik
Situated in the south part of Croatian coastline, more...0 points
Cravat - Necktie Made in Croatia!
Did you know that Croatia is the mother country of more...0 points
Skiing in France
Cheap hotel accommodation for students and backpac more...0 points
Skiing in France
Cheap hotel accommodation for students and backpac more...0 points
CRO-Wallpapers.com
The home of Croatian wallpapers in HD. Get your HD more...0 points
Romania Hotels
AsiaRooms offers you savings on your hotel booking more...0 points
Language [Hrvatski]
Croatian is the national language, and it is a Southern Slavic language that has been traced back to the 9th century. It includes several regional dialects. Its alphabet consists of 30 upper and lower-case letters.The Croatian language is very difficult to pick up as an adult, and there are very few resources for sale that teach it, as it is not globally popular. Since it is not a romance language, virtually none of its words are distinguishable to a non-native Slavic speaker. If you're interested in the pure language, do not purchase guides that teach "Croatian/Serbian/Bosnian" as a group - since they are different variations. This will certainly confuse your understanding of the language.
Websites for learning the languages' basics:
:: Hrvatski jezik: Offers a list of common words, sayings and phrases; with audio clips that let you hear the correct pronunciation.
:: Learn Croatian: Another site offering basics of the language, as well as audio clips for correct pronunciation.
:: E.L. Easton: Still haven't had enough? This site lists dozens of Croatian language learning sites!
:: ECML: Basic information about the history and alphabet, as well as its structure and comparison to other languages.
:: CroLang Editors: Detailed information about the accented alphabet letters and their pronunciations, with English-equivalent sounds
Start Learning Croatian
These resources, although few, will certainly help you begin learning this language! Please note that simply having textbooks will not help you learn the language - actually hearing the correct pronunciations is vital. The language contains many words that cannot be pronounced to a first-time learner. Do purchase an audio set in conjunction with a textbook if you are serious about learning!
Teach Yourself Croatian Complete Course Audiopack by David Norris
This course book contains written exercises in Cro more...0 points
Pimsleur Croatian: Learn to Speak and Understand Croatian with Pimsleur Language Programs (Compact) by Pimsleur
This CD series teaches you via listening and repet more...0 points
Colloquial Croatian: The Complete Course for Beginners (Book & 2 Audio CDs) by Celia Hawkesworth
This book is mostly for intermediate and advanced more...0 points
History of Croatia
Here's a basic rundown of some important moments in the country's history.7 A.D. - The principalities of Dalmatia (a region encompassing most of the western coast of Croatia) and Pannonia (the region northeast of current-day Croatia, as well as Austria, Hungary, Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Bosnia and Herzegovina) are formed by Croat settlers.
845 A.D. - The House of Trpimirovic, a ruling Croat dynasty, lasted for 246 years. Tomislav, the first King of Croatia, went into power in 925 A.D.
1102 A.D. - Croatia entered into a union with the Hungarian Kingdom: a multi-ethnic collaboration of territories.
1527 A.D. - Croatia became part of the Habsburg Monarchy after Kingdom of Hungary's forces were defeated by the Ottoman Empire. This new monarchy was ruled by Austria. It was later known as the Austrian Empire from 1804-1867, and then, the Austro-Hungarian Empire from 1867-1918.
1918 A.D. - Croatia became a part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia from the end of WWI to WWII. Yugoslavia was composed of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, Macedonia, and most of present-day Slovenia and Croatia. During the first 11 years, Croatia was a part of the "Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes."
1941 A.D. - The country, as well as neighboring territories, were split up by Nazi Germany, and it was known as the Independent State of Croatia. This Independent State was composed of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as parts of Slovenia and Serbia. Following the Allies' victory of WWII in 1945, Croatia became a Republic of Yugoslavia.
1991 A.D. - Croatia declared independence ["Domovinski rat" or "homeland war"], sparking the Croatian War of Independence that was fought against the Yugoslav People's Army, as well as Serbian forces. The war ended with Croatian victory in 1995.
Books on Croatian History
History, Ancestory & Genealogy
Are you looking to learn some more about your family history? There are several Croatian genealogy sites dedicated to this purpose::: Croatia-in-English: A site for those who are looking to identify with their Croatian heritage. It includes many links to more information about ancestry, communications, travel, and customs information.
:: CroatianHistory.net: Learn more about the culture and history of the country here, with extensive information about important figures in history. A little difficult to navigate, but overall, filled with great information.
:: Flags of Croatia: View all of the many different flags that the country had through the ages, as well as several regional flags.
Food & Drink
While there is no specific country-wide identity in terms of cuisine, each region is known for its own specialty. For instance:Eastern (Slavonia region): Many spicy dishes: Kulen and Kulenova seka; spicy sausages. Cobanac; a stew made of meat and red paprika.
Central: Strukli; cheese-filled pasta. Purica s mlincima; baked turkey & pastry. Sir i vrhnje; sour cream & cottage cheese.
Adriatic Coast & Dalmatia: Truffles (a type of underground mushroom). Manestra; a bean soup. Most importantly, fresh fish including calamari (fried squid) and octopus, shrimp scampi, and crab meat.
More Information:
:: ZeCook: Recipes and even videos showing the preparation!
:: CroatianMall: Tons of links to more information about Croatian cuisine.
:: CroatiaTraveller: Info and links to more food resources and recipes.
:: Minos Imported Foods: Buy groceries
Alcohol:
Many types of wines and brandies come from various regions in the country, although they may be a little difficult to locate elsewhere. White wines include Grasevina; named after the white grape that the wine is made from, having a slightly bitter aftertaste. Malvazija; also named after the white grape it comes from, creates both table and dessert wine. As for Red wines, various types of Merlot, Cabernet and Red Burgundy can be found. Teran is harvested in the Northwest (as well as Italy). As in regions of Italy, bevanda is commonly seen: which is a mixture of wine and water, had with meals. The two most popular beers are Karlovacko and Ozujsko. Famous liquors include rakija (particularly "Sljivovica"), a brandy made from plums, figs, grapes, herbs or others. Pelinkovac is a bitter drink popular in the center of the country.
More Information:
:: FindCroatia - Wines: Get info or purchase Croatian wine.
:: VinumUSA: Lists distributors in which you can purchase wine from.
:: Croatian Wines: A small list & vineyard links.
:: Maraska Zadar
Travel & Vacation
Resources for those visiting the country
If you're looking to visit Croatia, use the following resources to research the most popular and beautiful areas within the country, with additional links providing you expansive information about each region and their attractions: Destination: Dubrovnik
Historic Adriatic City
Dubrovnik, a major port city, is located in far southern Croatia. It is known as one of the most popular tourist spots in the country. The famous cobbled sea walls (once used for protective purposes) of the city extend across the coastline, and date back several centuries.Important tourist locations are Sponza Palace, the Church of St. Blasius, the Port of Gruz and Onofrio's Fountain. Dubrovnik also is a great place to scuba dive.
:: Find the best airfare to Dubrovnik
Destination: Istria
Peninsula with Italian Influence
Istria, a peninsula on the northwestern-most region of the country, is located between the Gulf of Trieste and the Bay of Kvarner. It is a proud region whose people identify themselves as Istrians. The Chakavian dialect of Croatian is generally spoken, as is Italian.The remnants of the Roman Empire can be seen in the famous Colosseum of Pula - undoubtedly the most famous landmark of the whole region. Other famous locations are the beautiful promenade of Porec, the Venetian Praetorian Palace in Koper, the Brijuni islands, and the seaports of Rovinj. Take a tour of Istria to see all of these great locations.
:: Find the best airfare to Istria, via Pula
Destination: Plitvicka Jezera
Home of a Major National Park
Located near the border of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the mid-section of Croatia, this area is home to the famous and beautiful Plitvice Lakes: a national park with breathtaking mountains, cascading waterfalls and the bright turquoise-green lakes that they pool into.This national park is home to many varieties of plant and animal life. In addition, it is the infamous location of a confrontation that is thought to have sparked the Croatian War of Independence.
:: Find the best airfare to the Plitvice National Parks via Zadar
Destination: Rijeka
The Principal Seaport
Located just east of the Istrian Peninsula, Rijeka is located on the Kvarner bay of the Adriatic Sea. The bulk of this city's industry relies on its massive port; therefore, making it an important hub.Important locations include Tvornica: an old torpedo factory from the 1800s that is still left in-tact. Stara vrata or "old gate" is an ancient arch and portal to the city. The mustard-colored baroque city clock tower lies over the gateway. "Sanctuary of Madonna Trsatian" is a hilltop maritime monument overlooking the sea.
:: Find the best airfare to Rijeka
Destination: Split
The Second Largest City
Located on the southwestern coast of the country, Split is an important historical city with roots dating back to the 600's A.D., and traces of ancient Greek and Roman colonization.The most famous attraction is the Palace of Diocletian, which was built around the 3rd or 4th century. The city itself is an extremely important center of Croatian culture and art, with roots that go back to medieval times.
:: Find the best airfare to Split
Destination: Zadar
Ancient City Filled with Landmarks
Located on the central eastern coast of Croatia, Zadar is an old city whose ancestry has been traced back to the settlement of ancient Mediterranean and Illyrian people. If you're looking for a city with a very rich ancient history, this is it.Notable landmarks include the Kopnena Vrata: the 'main entrance' and massive stone arc of the city. Zadar is well known for its many ancient churches: St. Donatus' Church - a 9th century stone church, located across from St. Mary's Church. Various Roman ruins also exist within the city.
:: Find the best airfare to Zadar
Destination: Zagreb
Capital city and transit hub
Zagreb, the capital and largest city, located relatively near the center of the country. It has 17 districts, and is full of culture and history - which can be seen within its many major museums; such as the Croatian Natural History Museum, Museum of the City of Zagreb, Archeological Museum and Arts and Crafts Museum.Other famous and notable locations are the ancient Gothic Church of St. Mark, Zagreb University, the Croatian National Theatre and the Medvednica forest. Don't forget Maksimir Stadium: home of one of the best Croatian national soccer teams, "Dinamo."
:: Find the best airfare to Zagreb
Croatia Group Discussion
Thanks for visiting the Croatia group - please leave your comments below! Web visitors, you'd need a free Squidoo account to post your comment and/or site here.
Lensmaster
a_willow wrote...
Hello Mark!
I lensrolled Croatia group on my Taste of Croatia group and will also on Josip Broz Tito (after all, he was Croat)! Let's try to multiply number of lenses in this group! ;-)))
Pozdrav iz suncane Slavonije!
Mihaela
Posted August 07, 2008
Lensmaster
a_willow wrote...
Hello Mark!
I lensrolled Croatia group on my Taste of Croatia group and will also on Josip Broz Tito (after all, he was Croat)! Let's try to multiply number of lenses in this group! ;-)))
Pozdrav iz suncane Slavonije!
Mihaela
Posted August 07, 2008
Lensmaster
lprince wrote...
Hi,
Great job!
Must be Croatian like myself. Love the pictures. I was there at Christmas time and went skiing.
Sve najbolje,
ljubica
Posted January 15, 2008
Lensmaster
kodrann wrote...
Hey! You're incredible! Must have worked a lot to gather all this info. Great group!
Posted July 11, 2007
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Created June, 2007
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A group dedicated to providing learning resources, admiration and travel guides to this beautiful European country for both Croatians and tourists!
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