Croatia at a glance by Association UZAP

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DUBROVNIK The pearl of Mediterranean Author: Stela Lechpammer Photo: UZAP Archives

Dubrovnik is situated at the foot of Srđ Hill and represents Croatia’s most southern city. It’s also the administrational, cultural, educational and economic centre of the Dubrovačkoneretvanska County but his popularity mostly stems from his status as a tourist Mecca and the city boasts with a title of Croatia’s most famous tourist city. Despite beautiful beaches and an average of 250 sunny days per year guests rarely enjoy the sea and you can find the majority of them inside the Old City. The fact that Dubrovnik has been on the UNESCO’s list of World heritage list since 1979 confirms the city’s fabled beauty of its cultural monuments. The city has more to offer than that though; cultural happenings throughout the year ensure tourists’ loyalty to the city. Dubrovnik Summer Games Festival as founded in 1949 and represents a unique mix of musical, dramatic and dancing performances that are performed both indoors CROATIA AT A GLANCE

and outdoors. The frame of the festival consists of plays by Marin Držić Ivo Vojnović, William Shakespeare, Carlo Goldoni and numerous Greek tragedians. Additionally, there is a chamber music festival „Julian Rachlin and friends“that started in 2000 where many famous world musicians perform along the founder of this festival, the famous violinist and violist Julian Rachlin. In 2005 an idea to expand Dubrovnik’s cultural scene emerged and thus Libertas Film Festival was started. Symbol of the city are the magnificent Walls of Dubrovnik that are protected by 4 towers, each fac-

ing one side of the world. Minčeta, Bokar, Revelin and St. John are the names of the four towers and provide their visitors with a spectacular view of the city and the open sea. Outside the city fortress Lovrijenac, also known as the Gibraltar of Dubrovnik, is situated. Four city gates allow entrance to the city: Gate of Ploča, Gate of Pila, Gate of Ribarnica and Gate of Ponte. When you enter inside the city walls it’s like a passage to another world; lots of churches and monasteries, beautiful palaces, summer houses and museums make the city’s centre. It is almost an impossible task to name all his sym-

Dubrovnik -The pearl of Mediterran

bols; Rector’s palace, little and big Onofrio’s Fountains that have been the city’s water source since the old times, Orlando’s column that once held the Republic of Dubrovnik’s flag and the city’s Bell Tower that is located on Stradun. Stradun is the main street in Dubrovnik, a remnant of the famous past of the Republic which left us with this unique city. The city was probably founded in the 7th century AD and his beginnings are shrouded in mysteries. Although there are some indications that the city existed during ancient Greece, the general theory links it with the ruin of Roman city of Epidaurum (today’s Cavtat). Epidaurum was savaged by the Avars and Slavs and the survivors found shelter on Laus cliff. The locals forged from the name Laus a new name Ragusa and thus a new settlement was born. At the same time the Slavs founded another settlement which they named Dubrava because of its surrounding thick oak-tree wood. As time passed by the two settlements began merging and finally a city named Dubrovnik was founded in the 11th century. The two settlements merged by burying the canal

that divided them and in its place today’s world famous street of Stradun is situated. The city continued to expand and slowly became a naval and economic force to be reckoned with and in the 12th century surrounded itself with defensive walls. Those walls are 2 kilometres long and their uniqueness attracts around 1 million tourists every year. During that time Dubrovnik still recognized the Byzantium Empire as its ruler but the city had a great amount of autonomy. City life was very much organized despite the division of its society on rich patricians and poor plebes, something the city was unable to shake off for a long time. In 1205 Republic of Venice, by using the excuse of the Crusade Wars, managed to conquer Dubrovnik thus eliminating its biggest competition. The Republic of Venice had a great effect on the city ending its naval trade which resulted in the development of trade with its inland neighbours, especially Bosnia that was ruled by governor Kulin. It was his documents that mentioned for the first time the name Dubrovnik in a document that allowed preferential trade with Dubrovnik. The

city was also mentioned in many English texts, for example King Richard Lionheart found a refuge from a storm in 1192 in Dubrovnik on his way back from the Crusades. Though the city tried to regain its independence it didn’t succeed and it was only in 1358 that Republic of Venice gave up all of its land on the East Adriatic to Croatian-Hungarian Monarchy as agreed in the Treaty of Zadar (Treaty of Zara). Dubrovnik symbolically acknowledged Croatian-Hungarian king as its ruler in theory, and in practice retained its independence-a smart diplomatic move. Croatian-Hungarian Monarchy didn’t meddle in city’s regulation, administration, trade and naval business which resulted in the complete emancipation of independent and sovereign aristocratic Republic of Dubrovnik. The Republic was very powerful and advanced for its time; they abolished slavery and forbid slave transportation on 27th January 1416, becoming the first European country to do so. They were the first to recognize the United States of America as an independent state. The city housed around 40 000 people in the 14th century which made

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it one of bigger cities in Europe; for comparison, London had around 50 000 people and Florence over 100 000 people. Dubrovnik was a developed city: they had one of the first sewerage systems that are in use today. Also, in 1317 an apothecary was founded in the city’s Franciscan monastery and has been open since then, making it the third oldest apothecary in Europe. In 1526 Turks defeated Croatian-Hungarian Monarchy but it didn’t affect the Republic because Dubrovnik made a deal with the Turks to pay them an annual fee in return for freedom and protection. The Republic had a strong naval force, third in the world in terms of strength and size. Dubrovnik’s Maritime Insurance Law from 1568 is the oldest law of its kind in the world. City’s ships carried foreign merchandise and sailed the Mediterranean all the way to England and there’s even proof that they reached the shores of North America. Dubrovnik also founded the only Croatian colony in India in the village of Gandalium and even today there is a church of St. Blaise (Croatian Sv. Vlaho), the protector of the Republic of Dubrovnik. The city’s richness is further proved by the fact they coined their own money in the 16th century, silver coins Artiluk. It is no wonder then that Dubrovnik was the centre of Croatian’s literature and language and that many famous Croatian writers, mathematicians, painters, physicists and other schol-

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ars resided there. First quarantine was founded in Dubrovnik in 1377 and the orphanage in St. Claire’s monastery is one of the first in the world. Unfortunately, the great earthquake in 1667 almost destroyed the city and many people died; together with the fire that followed this event marked the beginning of the decline of the Republic. The discovery of new naval trade routes in the Atlantic after America was discovered also played a part in the decline and the city never regained its old glory and power. Napoleon burst on Europe’s map in the 19th century affected the city greatly because in 1806 Napoleon’s army arrived and occupied the city and on 31st of January 1808 Marshal of France Marmont entered the city and thus ended the Republic of Dubrovnik. After Napoleon’s demise Dubrovnik’s diplomats tried

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to restore the Republic but failed and the city formally became a part of Dalmatia, having always been a cultural and historical part of the region. Since then the city’s fate was tied to Croatia’s fate which was a part of the Habsburg Monarchy and later Austro-Hungarian Monarchy till 1918. Interesting fact is that Dubrovnik’s nobles didn’t start to fade till after WW1. The city, along with Croatia, became a part of the Kingdom of SHS (Kingdom of Slovenians, Croats and Serbs) on 1st of December 1918 and later the Kingdom of Yugoslavia in 1929. In 1941 when the fascist Independent State of Croatia was declared most of Dubrovnik citizens rebelled against it and joined the illegal anti-fascist movement. After the fascists were defeated in 1944 and WW2 ended the city became a part of new communist Democratic Federation of

Yugoslavia. In 1990 when Croatia asked for independence on her first free elections and when the country decided to become independent on the 1991 referendum vote, Dubrovnik joined and declared its wish for an independent Croatia. During the Croatian War of Independence the city suffered heavy damage; on 1st of August 1991 the Yugoslavian Army started their attack on the city. For months the city was under heavy artillery attack that systematically seeked to destroy one of the most beautiful and most famous Croatian cities. City suffered daily bombarding and shells damaged a large part of it but the people survived and slowly they rebuilt Dubrovnik, now a part of free independent Republic of Croatia. Later with UNESCO’s help the city was completely renovated and today it represents the pride of Croatia and is one of European jewels.

Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Dubrovnik Sun Gardens, Dubrovnik Croatia

MEET IN DUBROVNIK

Open all year round

Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Dubrovnik Sun Gardens Na Moru 1, 20234 Orašac Dubrovnik, Croatia Tel: +385 20 361 500, Fax: +385 20 361 501 info.dubrovnik@radissonblu.com www.radissonblu.com/resort-dubrovnik

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ISTRIA

Author: Andrea Bregovac Photo: Tourist board of Istra, NP Brijuni

Can words be found to describe Istria, or is language too poor to faithfully express the magical beauty of this peninsula? And can all the features of Istria be expressed in 8000 characters of text? And there are really plenty of them.

The first breath of life in Istria occurred early in the older Palaeolithic. It is estimated that the bat stone found in Ĺ andalja cave near Pula is old between 2 million and 800 000 years. There are also findings from the Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Age, when there was already large population at the peninsula; it is evidenced by the existence of over 400 forts with a special technique of building, dry-stone: that technique is still highly esteemed and remains impressive. History of Istria is rich and turbulent, various rulers, which is why even today in many areas the impact of various interwoven cultural circles can be felt, which further contributes to the wealth of experience from Histri, who are considered the first inhabitants and by whom it was named, through Roman and Byzantine, Avar-Slavic attacks, Charles the Great and Venice from the medieval period, continued by Napoleon.. Each era left its stamp on this small region, making it ultimately stronger and special. Its residents have recognized the potential and its distinctiveness, nurturing what history left there as legacy and have turned Istria in one of the most deCROATIA AT A GLANCE

sirable tourist destinations that truly has something to offer during all four seasons. Istria is a diverse place - the magical blue of the sea set alight by sunshine, white stones and the magic of fragrant, green forests, fields and vineyards make a perfect harmony. A variety of the adornment which nature has generously endowed to this part of the planet-the national park Brijuni - archipelago of 14 islands, is an interesting touch of nature, autochthonous and allochthonous species of luxurious flora and fauna with a historical heritage - sites and objects (the Neolithic period onwards), which makes treasury of rich artistic and historical value. Then Lim bay, park UÄ?ka, Motovun Forest, cape Kamenjak, Mramornica cave are just some of the many natural attractions where you can immerse yourself in the nature and the treasures it hides. When we talk about the fruits of nature, Istria is primarily known for its olives and grapes flourish, Mediterranean cultures of exceptional quality in this area-therefore the wine and olive oil are symbolic of Istria. There are, of course, indispensable truffles, expensive mushrooms

Istra

hidden in the heart of the earth. They represent the ultimate delicacy, and the Istrian white truffle is one of the most respected in the world. Fish, shellfish, molluscs, game, vegetables, wild plants in the intoxication of aromatic spices, wines and oils are part of the luxury and magic of Istrian cuisine, and we urge you to experience Istria through the dimension of food and wine! Towns and villages in Istria, both

in coastal areas and inland, are also part of the region that will intrigue your senses and stir your imagination. They will captivate you with its charms and grace, with majestic architectural creations and monuments that evoke the past and represent witnesses of a turbulent history. There you will be able to experience a rich cultural offer in the form of concerts, exhibitions, various events, film festivals and numerous

other attractions. Considering that a rich historical and cultural heritage of Istria was born and created in the cities, let’s meet some of them. For the city of Pula we have records of the permanent settlement since the 10th century BC. In Roman times it was the administrative centre of Istria, and today it represents the largest economic and cultural centre of Istria. Various historical stages and changes

of the rule have created a variety of architectural richness, of which the most significant one is the famous amphitheatre, the Pula Arena. She is one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world. Today you can enjoy high quality cultural events in it, from concerts to film festivals, and you’ll experience the amazing close encounter with Roman history in which the imposing edifice radiates. Only a few kilometres away from Pula are towns Vodnjan and Fažana. You can also see the Brijuni Islands,

the only national park in Istria. But if you go to the Istria inland you will find towns and cities that are actually medieval fortresses; Grožnjan, Motovun or Buzet will give you peace and privacy, with a premium culinary and wine tourism offering. Motovun, a small town on the hill known since prehistoric times, is special for its famous Motovun forest that is the habitat of the best truffles in the world. A rich cultural background is offered by Pazin, who’s (sometimes established by Habsburgs) castle Kaštel now oper-

ates Ethnographic Museum of Istria and the town of Pazin. Inspiring art can definitely be experienced in Labin, a town full of art studios. Going to the sea in Rabac, you’ll see a former fishing village, now the pearl of Istria rich tourist offer. If you go the other side, along the western coast of Istria, the inevitable city to visit, after Medulin and Pula, is definitely Rovinj. This town still has preserved a high rocky coast and houses built on the cliffs, while the mainland is surrounded by high

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walls. The atmosphere of this city is unspeakably sentimental, and the culmination of your experience will definitely be the church of St. Euphemia, a baroque building in Venetian style. Built on a hill to which all the streets of this city lead, it represents the most important cultural monument of Rovinj. Vrsar and Funtana, small fishing villages between Poreč and Lim canal with its unique archipelago of

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idyllic islands, green atmosphere and crystal clear waters offer you perfect conditions for relaxation. A cultural monument, so significant that it is included in the list of World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, is the Euphrasian basilica in Poreč. It was built in the 6th century in the Byzantine style. Mosaics which are painted are one of the most beautiful preserved Byzantine works in the world. Poreč, other

than the beauty of its streets and buildings which clearly show that the city is the former Roman colony offers a wide range of tourist services. Besides the beautiful indented coastline and mysterious islands, excellent gastronomy and accommodations, it is full of entertainment and recreational facilities. During the past few years it has also become a popular destination for many athletes from all over the world.

While in PoreÄ?, be sure to visit Euphrasian Basilica, one of eight UNESCO cultural treasures in Croatia.

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However, the central place of sport facilities in Istria is definitely the city of Umag. This city besides beautiful beaches and hotels also offers areas specifically equipped for riding, walking, biking, as well as almost a hundred tennis courts. Also, Umag hosts the famous ATP tournament each summer, along with supporting contents, that attracts more than 70 000 guests. Guests are not lacking in Novigrad, the town that dates from the ancient times. Although once a fishing town, tourism today is one of the most important industries. Out of cultural attractions we can point out Novigrad Lapidarium, a museum collection of 93 stone monuments from the ancient and medieval times. The parish church of Saint Pelagius and Saint Maximus, built in the early Christian era, is a basilica nowadays where a deep corps with Baroque altar stands in front of an early Romanesque crypt. This crypt is the only one of its kind in Istria and one of the few in Croatia.

Indeed, it is difficult to summarize the experiences and opportunities that Istria can provide. She is one of the most developed Croatian regions, and its focus on the preservation and nurturing of the authentic cultural historical and culinary heritage in conjunction with the quality of the service encourages you to visit and to experience its natural beauty.

Traveller C R OAT I A N

LIFEST YLE MAGA ZIN O PUTOVANJIMA

w w w . c r o a t i a n t r a v e l l e r. n e t

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NIN

A royal destination Author: Nika Čabrić Photo: Tourist board Nin

During 3000 years long history, Zadar region has expanded to an area which covers 14 percent of the Croatian territory, about 12 percent of the territorial sea with the islands surface of about 580 km, and with the total number of islands being the same as the number of days in a year. The city of Zadar, as the centre of the region is a city that makes every visitor fall in love, unintentionally or not. No one can remain indifferent to its sea organs that sing so beautifully whenever a boat passes by, and is lo-

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cated at the waterfront, nor can anyone ignore the installation located next to the organs called the Greeting to the Sun whose beautiful colours are simply fascinating. A lot was written by a famous film director Alfred Hitchcock about the most beautiful sunset: “Sunset in Zadar is the most beautiful in the world, and it is incomparably more beautiful than the one in Key West in Florida.” So we will turn to the northwest of Zadar and introduce you to one less known town which is simply breathtaking, because of its fascinating beauty. We direct our way to Nin.

Nin - Royal destination

The town of Nin is only 10 minutes away by car and 114 km northwest from Zadar, a city located at the heart of the region. Nin is interesting with its rich and turbulent history, also called Croatian Bethlehem, as well because of its unusual position. Heart of Nin, i.e. its historical centre, is located on an island whose width is just 500 meters in diameter. Nin is situated in a unique lagoon on the east coast of the Adriatic Sea, surrounded by long sandy beaches, and apart from its beautiful beaches it is known for its salt pans. The old fortified town is connected to the mainland by two stone bridges from the 16th century. A very good strategic location and fertile environment enabled it to become an urban centre. City with glorious past is 3000 years old and is one of the oldest cities on the East coast of the Adriatic. Its history tells a story at almost every corner. It was the first political, religious and cultural centre of the medieval Croatia. Nin is also the oldest Croatian royal town and bishopric from 9 - 19th century. Nin bishops are important for the Croatian church, among which the most notable is Gregory of Nin, an advocate for the preservation of Croatian national Glagolitic alphabet. A bronze statue of Bishop Gregory of Nin that is located in the church of St. Anselm in Nin and is one of the three that exist in Croatia. All three monuments of Gregory of Nin were made by Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic. The first statue was donated to the city of Varaždin, another monumental statue to the city of Split, and the third was set in Nin, on September 10th 1969. The bronze sculpture of Bishop Gregory welcomes travellers and “grants a wish” to those who touch his thumb. Rich archaeological finds can be seen at the Museum of Nin Antiquities, where two original old Croatian ships Condura Croatica from the 11th century are also located as well as the reconstruction of the Liburnian ship Serilie Liburnica from the 1st century. Today Nin is a modern tourist and cultural destination where tourists come because of its exceptionally well-preserved natural heritage and clean environment, rich cultural heritage and modern tourist village with apartments and camping sites that are designed to accommodate

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the needs of even most demanding guest. Natural heritage, in addition to sandy beaches and salt pans, include the largest deposit of medical mud in Croatia. Mud is used for treatment of rheumatic diseases, deformities of the spine, female infertility and various skin diseases. Therapy has been conducted in a completely natural environment for more than forty years. Nin is developing medical tourism and has begun with the construction of health and tourist resort. Park salt pans Nin produce salt in a natural way by way of sunlight and wind. Sightseeing of salt pools is organized and you can buy souvenirs made of salt; there’s also an oasis of a large number of birds, as many as 150 species, with two interesting nesting species that are rare and endangered and whose numbers in Croatia and Europe is in decline: endemic Stilt and Kentish Plover. The gastronomic offer is very rich because the city has more than 30 restaurants ranging from bars, taverns, pizzerias and restaurants , and you can also try a Dalmatian specialty unique “šokol” there. Enchanting sandy beaches stretch out around the old city with a total CROATIA AT A GLANCE

length of 8000 meters. Those same beaches are often declared the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. Nin lagoon abounds with favourable winds ideal for windsurfing. Queens beach, a 3 km long sandy beach in the lagoon of Nin with one of the best views of the Velebit Mountain is breathtaking and suitable for vacation especially for families with small children. There is a legend about the queen’s beach: The first Croatian king Tomislav came to rest in Nin after the coronation ceremony. The queen usually went to the sandy beach in a quiet lagoon with the healing mud, during their stay in Nin. Upon the recommendation of their consultant she spread that black mud on her skin, which glowed after few days with new brightness. That was the queen favourite beach in the entire country. The king, who rarely joined her on the beach, one day stayed with the queen all afternoon. In a romantic mood on that occasion he uttered: “This place will only be yours when we arrive in Nin, here is where I want to spend at least one afternoon with you, this is paradise on earth and this is your beach.” Queens’s courtiers then called this

beach Queen’s Beach. Every time the queen visited the Nin common people did not go to this beautiful beach. This information is still a part of folk tradition, and the name of the Queen’s beach can be found in written sources. In the end, we will reveal you a little culinary secret of Nin, Šokol: Šokol is a meat product that is produced from pork neck meat. Treated like prosciutto, i.e. .left to lie three

Nin - Royal destination

to seven days in pure sea salt, then placed in mulled red wine. The meat is coated with several kinds of spices, pepper, cloves, nutmeg and then “špikuje” with them. Then the meat is placed in a specially prepared wrapper and is banded in a special way with a rope. The šokol is then placed on smoke for a few days, and

then exposed to wind called bura. Apparently, according to the inhabitants of Nin region, factor that contributes is the phenomenon of the wind bura, which in the winter months is a stable occurrence in Nin, and it is the most crucial for the drying of the šokol. In fact, a unique microclimate which unites the wind

bura that brings mountain air enriched with flavours and ingredients of medicinal herbs of Velebit Mountain and sea air affects the drying process and the quality of the Nin šokol. Welcome and enjoy your meal!

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U L T U R A L H E R I TA G E

Author: Kristina Pavlić Photo: UZAP Archives, Castle Trakošćan

Following the footsteps of medieval knights and wanderers CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Northern Croatia, a region dominated by Hrvatsko zagorje has a lot to offer, especially castles that are surrounded by magnificent gardens. Mostly Baroque castles all have their own story to tell. If you take a drive through Hrvatsko zagorje you’ll enjoy a view of numerous castles perched upon green hills....... This area is rich with cultural heritage and 50 or so castles; the most interesting ones are Bežanec Castle, Trakošćan Castle, Gjalski Castle,

Castle Veliki Tabor, Castle Sv. Križ Začretje, Miljana Castle, Mihanović Castle, Maruševac Castle, Patačić Castle and Oršić Castle. Bežanec Castle is a cultural monument of first category (registered in 1962) and hails from XVIII century. It was renovated in the 19th c. in Classicist style. The castle driveway is interesting because the road itself is a 90 m long alley of maple trees built in 1911. The castle is near a village called Valentinovo, another

reason for a visit, maybe a romantic one in February. Trakošćan Castle is perhaps the most attractive out of all the castles found in Hrvatsko zagorje, and it is definitely the most visited one. Its attractiveness is due to its surrounding grounds; Trakošćan Lake is equally breathtaking throughout the year. Trakošćan is also a cultural monument of first category. There is also an open museum with permanent exhibits within the castle.

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Castle Veliki Tabor is situated on a hill (334m) and it is the best kept medieval fortress in the whole country. The castle boasts with an active tourist programme, such as an international fencing tournament (28th June) and there is also an international film festival Tabor in July that started in 2003, as well as falconing in August. All these activates should be followed by leisure activities; the castle boasts with a wine-cellar that holds barrels ranging from 53 litres to 5450 litres, a rustic bar, wine storage and an ancient wine press. The locals like to brag about their wine so be sure to try it. The castle is under protection as one of cultural monuments of the highest category. You must have heard about Croatian literature’s long tradition; it developed arm in arm with its European counterparts. So it is not surprising that one of the most famous Croatian authors of the 19th century searched for his inspiration in beauties of another castle, Gjalski Castle. Ljubo Babić, or his pseudonym Ksaver Šandor Gjalski inherited with his family the castle that was originally in the hands of the Komanory family. The most distinguished representative of that family was Sigismund, a royal advisor. Every year there are numerous happening in the castle, all related to the Middle Ages and knights, but also literary events. The castle can be rented for weddings and similar events so that guests can experience a dash of 19th century castle. Another writer made an impression in one castle. Antun Mihanović was a famous writer who wrote the text of Croatian national anthem in the castle who was later named after him; Mihanović Castle. The castle is located in the Tuhelj District that is famous for its thermal spa Tuheljske toplice. If you end up in Varaždin County be sure to visit Maruševac Castle. His gardens are especially lovely and posses a number of exotic plants and trees (Algerian fir tree, ginkgo tree, Bottlebrush buckeye, Caucasian walnut and others). With this little titbit we’ll conclude our story about castles, not because we don’t have anything else to say but because we would sooner CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Castles of Hrvatsko Zagorje

run out of paper than out of words. That is why we singled out the most intriguing ones in the hope that you would be sufficiently intrigued and continue the exploration of other

ones like Miljana Castle, Patačić Castle, Oršić Castle and so on. We have no doubt that the spirit of old times will charm you into returning to Croatia.

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Diocletianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s palace The largest and best preserved Late Antique-style palace in the world Author: Stela Lechpammer Photo: UZAP Archives

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Photo: Zlatko Sunko

City of Split is situated at the heart of the Dalmatia region and in its centre there is a unique remnant of Roman architecture, the Palace of Diocletian that has been standing there for the past 1500 years. With its beauty and uniqueness the Palace leaves its every visitor breathless and has deservingly been a part of UNESCO’s list of World Cultural Heritage since 1979. Slit is the cultural, economic, tourist and traffic centre of Dalmatia. It is the 2nd biggest city in Croatia with many natural and cultural beauties. The most famous monument in the city is the beautiful Pal-

ace of Diocletian that represents the historical core of the city. The Palace was built at the beginning of the 4th century AD on the order of Emperor Diocletian in the city of Aspalatos which was the ancient name for today’s Split. It is assumed that the Emperor himself was from Dalmatian’s town of Salona (nowadays called Solin) which is situated next to Split. Diocletian was born as Diokles around 236 AD in a farmer’s family and became a Roman soldier who then rose up in the military ranks and finally became the Emperor. The entire 3rd century was a very turbulent period for the Empire; the

army chose the emperors who ruled shortly and foolishly. The longest one lasted only 3 years and the shortest only 88 days. When the army established Diocletian as the emperor in 284 there was no reason to believe that he would fare any differently but soon after it turned out that he was exactly what the ailing Empire needed. He ruled over 20 years till year 305 when he retired to his newly erected palace for illness. During his rule he relied heavily on the army that was never defeated under his command. He made many reforms and built many monuments like thermae in Rome, arch in Arcus Nova, the Statue of Tetrarchs, numerous roads and his Palace in Split.

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In shape, the Palace looks like a Roman army camp, castrum. Its shape is almost rectangular and its towers that are situated on 4 corners follow the Roman military architectural tradition. The inside also looks like a Roman military camp; there are two main streets that are called cardo and decumanus and they divide the palace into 4 parts. There are 4 corresponding entry gates in the palace, 3 from land and one from the sea. The brass, silver, iron and gold gates invoke admiration even today. Also impressive are the underground halls that can be used to recreate how the palace looked like since they correspond perfectly to halls that used to be above them. Life at the Palace continued after the death of Diocletian and with time came many changes; in the Middle Ages the beautiful cathedral of St. Domnius was built and today with its Romanesque bell tower it

represents one of symbols of Split. Numerous Romanesque churches and medieval fortresses hail from that period. The Palace houses many younger gothic, renaissance and baroque palaces that are inside the Place and together they form a unique harmonious complex. Due to many different styles that the Palace houses you can enjoy in the beauty of Roman Peristyle, the Mausoleum of Diocletian, the Temple of Jupiter, early Christian churches, Romanesque houses and architectural beauties by Juraj Dalmatinac, one of the most famous Croatian sculptures and builders. All this makes the Palace of Diocletian of the most preserved Roman monuments and is one of the most important monuments of late ancient architecture that astounds people with its uniqueness. It also represents national as well as world heritage. Together with its later

buildings the Palace represents a valuable archaeological and historical complex and is a part of UNESCOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Cultural Heritage list. The Palace offers other entertainment besides its beauty; plays and concerts are regularly held at the Peristyle and there are also Days of Diocletian, a 4 day manifestation that brings back the past to its visitors. All this is an excellent reason to visit the Palace and enjoy its beauty.

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A T U R A L H E R I TA G E

Author: Jelena Praštalo Photo: Tourist board Kvarner, UZAP Archives

Journey you will remember... The magnificient nature of Lika and Gorski Kotar The mountain region represents the central upper part of Croatia and consists of 2 smaller regions; Gorski kotar which is the mountain part and Lika that is the home of 3 national parks. Uniqueness of this region is the fact that there is a variety of different natural sites in a geographically small space, so you can experience the beauty of Plitvica Lakes and the wilderness of Risnjak Mountain without having to travel far from one site to the other. We hope this text will encourage you to visit here and explore the rest for yourself. CROATIA AT A GLANCE

ESTINACIJE

The region begins with Karlovac-city of four rivers. Among of Croatia’s biggest treasures are these relatively intact lowland rivers that are a favourite lace for many swimmers and amateur rowers who were the first to discover them in search of peace and virgin nature.

The four rivers-Korana, Mrežnica, Dobra and Kupa- sneak between hills till they end up in karst area with red earth and luscious vegetation that enchants every visitor. An hour from Karlovac downstream there is a lovely miller’s village Rastoke where the rivers Korana and

Slunjčica meet. This village is special for its richness of vegetation and little islands and reefs where the locals made their homes and mills some 300 years ago. They are also called Little Plitvice because they precede the national park Plitvička jezera (Plitvica Lakes).

Plitvice is an area of rough karst, dark and rocky underground and breathtaking lakes that connect them all. This park is on the UNESCO list of the most beautiful world sites and they are among the most beautiful European national parks! They are also on the UNESCO World Heritage List and have been since 1979, among first in the world. Their specific beauty is a sanctuary to nature enthusiasts and artists and their uniqueness is a never-ending source of curiosity for scientists. The national park is a mountainous area that consists of lakes arranged in cascades. Currently, 16 lakes can be seen from the surface. These lakes are a result of the confluence of several small rivers and subterranean karst rivers and they are all interconnected and follow the water flow. They are separated by natural dams of travertine that form beautiful waterfalls and lakes. The park CROATIA AT A GLANCE

N offers visitors a chance to enjoy this magnificent view through an organized round trip and activities such as hiking, drive on electrical boats and panoramic train, photographing, rowing, mountain climbing and skiing. After enjoying these activities during the day tourists can find nourishment and a place to rest in numerous hotels that will provide them with everything they need. One other place that is worth seeing is Skrad, situated on the northwestern part of this region that is only one hour drive from Zagreb. It is an ideal weekend place for people who wish to relax and enjoy an active weekend. There are two nature wonders you need to experience; Zeleni vir and Vražji prolaz. Zeleni vir is a strong spring located at the bottom of a shallow wide cave whose entrance is guarded by looming vertical rocks 70 meters high down which a lively waterfall falls. The spring was named after its greenish colour of the lake that is inside of the cave. There are several footpaths and hiking paths and one of them leads to Vražji prolaz (Devil’s passage) that is an 800 meters long canyon that was made when a mountain river Jasle broke through surrounding rocks, thus forming a narrow passage. For millenniums the water corroded the rocks and finally created a magnificent and wild space. There are little

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bridges and steps in the rocks above the canyon made by way of metal girders. We continue our adventure with a visit to Lokvarsko Lake. One of the best anti-stress therapies is a visit here, especially if you take the time for a raft ride on the lake where you can enjoy the view. You can also enjoy long walks and swimming in the summer or maybe fishing that is good throughout the year. You can find a place to sleep in a little place called Fužine that is surrounded by picturesque mountains, silent pinewoods and beautiful lakes. There are some excellent restaurants you shouldn’t miss with specialties like dishes from various game, mushrooms, fish or forest fruits. You can enjoy lake swimming, fishing, canoeing or you can visit cycling roads and hiking paths. You can go riding, coach driving or hop onto tourist train for sightseeing. If you desire a more active vacation there is the Premužić path, a mountain path that leads through national park Velebit. The path itself isn’t steep so even people who are not used to hiking can enjoy it and its serpentines that lead thorough rough karst area. If you want an adrenaline-filled vacation though, you can choose free climbing in Paklenica or Risnjak. There’s something for everyone, you simply have to decide and take it on the road! CROATIA AT A GLANCE

While in Karlovac County, be sure to visit Rastoke, charming ethno village in heart of Croatia.

AASSTTRROO NN OO MM IJA Y

SLAVONIA

What’s cooking in Croatian Golden Valley?

Author: Kristina Pavlić Photo: UZAP Archives, Slavonijom.info, Tourist Board of Osijek-Baranja County

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Taste of Slavonia

Every housewife in Slavonia will always brag first about her culinary prowess. It is, after all, expected of her because in Slavonia the second most important thing is food-first are their fields of course. Snaša (local name for a traditional woman form Slavonia) cannot bee now a real Slavonian housewife if she doesn’t know

ma with is chosen very carefully. People is made Sla in Slavonia are very proud of it and it charac acterizes this region and its people. You need to earn a piece of kulen; nowadays it is served mostly on special occasions and to dear people because the making of kulen is a difficult and complex process that takes several

Photo: Mario Romulić & Dražen Stojčić

how to make the specialties that are well known in all of Croatia. So, what’s cooking in Slavonia? Their cuisine is indeed rich. The morning starts with milk, cream, butter and cheese. Cow cheese will usually have a smattering of red paprika and will go nicely with meat products such as čvarci, sušena slanina (dried bacon), sušene kobasice (dried sausages), kulen and kulenova seka. If we were to describe their cuisine in one sentence, we would say; Slavonians like their food spicy. The proof is the red paprika that is used in every meal, like kulen, gulaš, paprikaš, fiš-paprikaš and čobanac. The reason is probably the influence form Hungarian and Turkish cuisine and it makes the food more colourful. The most famous product is definitely kulen. Its recipe is a secret of sorts and traditional and the meat it

months. The process is modernised nowadays but the basis is still based on traditional recipes. It’s listed on the List of protected cultural goods of Republic of Croatia. We will end this story with an anecdote: „Kulen is like Šokac ; bećar in its spiciness, proud in its looks and pliable in its smell and taste. “ Now we can conclude that Slavonians like their meat. Besides the aforementioned food, they also like food made from game, like paprikaš. Fir tree is the pride of Slavonian woods and deer and boar meat is the pride Slavonian kitchen. Croatian love weddings, especially in Slavonia, and one of the reasons for this are their delicious cakes. Wherein the meat is usually prepared by men, cakes and cookies are made by women and they are well known for its deliciousness. It takes days to make them and both quality and quantity matter.

ASTRONOMY

Slavonian women pride themselves in their cakes. Paprenjaci, medenjaci, šape, rumene breskvice-all are delicious and sweet. Pogačice sa čvarcima and salenjaci are traditional cakes made for the annual traditional pig slaughter (kolinje). For Christmas there are usually orehnjača and makovnjača. It is interesting that the

entire Slavonian cuisine is found in one cake; donut made in pig fat. The feast can begin. You’re all invited! WINES OF SLAVONIA Wine production is a centurieslong tradition in these parts. There are tons of texts written already on wine; we wish to introduce you to the most famous wines in Slavonia, some of which are also worldknown. They are known to all here, and have received numerous awards; Davor Zdjelarević, Ivan Enjingi, Damir Josić, Vlado Krauthaker. Their success is the result of family work and all of them have their own special story. Slavonia has the perfect conditions for wine business and its wines have in the past often found themselves served to kings. There are many vineyards in Slavonia; in Srijem, Đakovo and Baranja in the East and in Kutjevo in the West of CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Taste of Slavonia

Slavonia. This region, together with Dalmatia and Istra, is the most important wine region in Croatia. Slavonian wines are world-know and their quality and uniqueness of taste is the result of constant experimentation with new sorts. The most famous ones are graševina, merlot, bijeli pinot, sivi pinot, crni pinot, rizling, muškatni silvanac (Sauvignon Blanc), sauvignon and traminac. The most famous vineyard in this part of Croatia is the Iločko vineyard that is also a part of European wine ma because of its specific climate

conditions. This vineyard produces primarily grapes. There is a unique ancient wine cellar beneath the Odescalchi Castle where the famous iločki traminac was ordered and sent from to the British court for the coronation of Elizabeth II. The stories about wines of Slavonia wouldn’t be complete without recommendation so we’ll name a few that will certainly enchant you... Zdjelarević: Nagual – Grand Cuve (Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot 2007) Josić: Pinot Sivi

Krauthaker: Graševina (Izborna Berba Prosušenih Bobica 2009.) Enjingi: Zweigelt Barrique 0,75 Croatia has around 2500 winecellars and it is a testament how much they are important to Croatians. Because of such large competition Croatian wines are constantly being improved and they are a regular presence in world restaurants and in 1st class in planes. So, don’t wait and try them out!

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Welcome to Slavonia and Baranya, where land loves the sky! Association for tourism and promotion of traveling culture Text & photo: Mislav Pavošević

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

www.slavonijom.info mislav@slavonijom.info

Between the blue waters of the mighty Danube and the green beauties, rivers Sava and Drava, you will find Slavonia and Baranya, with their golden fields, spacious vineyards and dense oak forests. At the edges the green plains dive into the big rivers and in the west, just like a wreath, gentle mountains rise. Visit the eastern Croatian provinces of Slavonia and Baranya famous for their green vineyards and centuries old wine cellars that tell a story of an old culture proud of its roots. Try the local variety wines like the fruit flavored “Graševina” Riesling and “Zweigelt” red wine or take a tasty sip of the sweet “Traminac”, wine served in royal courts across Europe. Take a ride through the wine country and then enjoy the company of the locals in their picturesque towns and villages, within simple and yet nicely ornate traditional houses, beautiful baroque mansions and mystical medieval fortresses. Accept their invitation to try the culinary masterpieces like the “čobanac” stew, fish paprikash (fish stew), suckling roasts made from pork and game and also cakes, so rich in flavor that just you might feel like a real hedonist. Come and we will take you on a quest for the

most beautiful and secret delights of life… When to visit Slavonia and Baranya? The decision is yours… That could be spring when snow melts and Drava becomes mighty as the Danube which spills it’s waters into the marshlands… Summer is the time of relaxation. See how sensationally sticky the air can be by the lake under the medieval walls of Ilok, when even the fish relax. Taste the famous wines at the local wine festivals and treat yourself with a summer romance… It is also beautiful in autumn, in the time of traditional festivals like the Osijek Beer Festival, Vinkovci Autumn Festival and Golden Strings of Slavonia in the picturesque baroque town of Požega where you can enjoy the cheerful sound of “tamburica” mandolin and various flavors of local food like home made “kulen” sausages… And at the end comes winter. Maybe here you won’t come across the kilometers long ski slopes, but Papuk Mountain offers you beautiful unspoiled nature. When you are there, be sure to take a ride in the horse-drawn sledge thru it’s mystical forests, on the border of the ancient kingdom – between reality and the most beautiful vacation of your life.

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

O N G R E S S T O U R I S M

Opatija Congress destination Author: Ira Kralj Photo: Tourist bord Kvarner, UZAP Archives

Congress tourism holds an important place in Croatian tourism with its main centers in Zagreb, Dubrovnik and Opatija. We will try to present Opatija as the cradle of congress tourism in Croatia since this city has the longest tradition in this type of tourism.

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Opatija - Congress destination Opatija is a city known not only as a tourist destination that hails from 1884 but also as the pioneer in congress tourism in Croatia. It is situated on the eastern shore of the Istria peninsula, close enough to Zagreb and also within a 500 km radius from important European scientific and business centers like Milan, Vienna and MĂźnchen that are all well connected by roads. Congress tourism being a type of tourism that organizes different scientific, business or trade events it needs a specific type of destinations that fulfill several conditions. Besides the standard requirements there needs to be a polyvalent congress hall that is equipped with technical equipment and internet access and they need to be operational all year round. There also needs to be quality culinary establishments, wellness centers, spas, casinos and bars all available. Hotels in Opatija have all the above mentioned facilities and the city herself offers so much more. They donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t call her a fairytale city for nothing; her mild climate, beautiful Austro-Hungarian villas, parks, gardens and promenades make her an attractive destination throughout the year.

O N G R E S S T O U R I S M

The city is known for its quality cultural offerings; art exhibits and concerts as well as events like Festival of chocolate, Days of Vienna and Balinjerada- race of funny vehicles held as a part of Carnival days in Opatija. Church of St. Jacob is one of more attractive sacral monuments. It was built around 1420 and is considered the oldest building in Opatija although little remains today from its original form. The builders were a Benedictine colony and the city got her name after this abbey (Cro. opatija=abbey). The church is situated in the park of Villa Angiolina that was bought in 1844 by a rich merchant from Rijeka and turned it into a magnificent manor. This villa represents the beginning of tourism because it was the place where distinguished guests such as Austrian empress Maria Anna, Governor Josip JelaÄ?iÄ&#x2021; and countless others stayed while in Opatija. The park itself is one of the most beautiful ones in Croatia, spreading over 3, 64 hectares with over 150 different plants. Among those plants a special place is reserved for Japanese camellia that has become an official flower symbol of Opatija. The villa today houses the Croatian tourist museum that often holds different cultural and protocol events as well as exhibits. The city symbol is the statue Girl with the seagull by sculptor Zvonimir Car that is situated on a cliff that has a beautiful view of the city. Another tourist attraction is the Croatian Walk of Fame in the part of city called Slatina, where marble stars on the pavement honor people who have promoted Croatia throughout the world with their scientific, artistic or sport achievements.

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Opatija - Congress destination

Republic of Croatia bases its economy largely on tourism and increases its efforts to invest in environmentally friendly and sustainable business. Green tourism is a new business trend that offers significant opportunities for improving operations and in accordance with which numerous tourism oriented businesses, from well-known hotel chains to small rural estates, run their businesses. For this reason, a renowned international company Culmena Ltd. from Zagreb in cooperation with the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management in Opatija, and the Association for the promotion of tourism destinations, products and services (UZAP) decided to organize the first International Green Tourism Conference, which will be held in spring 2012. The aim of the Conference will be education and training, business development and encouraging innovation and implementation of the latest achievements in the field of green tourism. If you would like more information, or you are interested in cooperation on this project, you can contact us via e-mail: info@uzaphr.org

Green and Lean Producition Conference is the first regional conference that covers both Lean and Green production and services. The Conference is a traditional event, and every year a special jury is presenting awards to the most successfull Lean and Green companies. The speakers at the Conference are the most experienced and renowned international consultants, managers, and professors that cover various areas of Green and Lean implementation. The speakers of the Conference come from various internationally renowned institutes, companies, expert associations and universities such as Fraunhofer Institute, Toyota Motor Company, Telecom Paristech, French Lean Institute, Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft etc. Green and Lean Conference in Zagreb rallies some of the most distinguished Croatian corporate managers and executives. The main goal of the conference is to encourage Croatian companies to start implementing the main principles of Lean and Green production in their businesses, so that they can successfully compete on international markets. By adopting and implementing the aforementioned principles, the companies are achieving optimized and sustainable production and construction of the final products, as well as services. The organizers of the Conference are the Croatian Lean management initiative (LMI) and Culmena, Ltd.

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Education in tourism f thm

CROATIA’S BEST COLLEGE FOR TOURIST SECTOR EDUCATION

The Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management in Opatija is Croatia’s only university institution fully oriented towards educating managerial positions in tourism and towards scientific human resource development in this field. Therefore the mission of the Faculty and its staff is to contribute, through teaching and research, to the realization of a new development mnodel of Croatian tourism. The history of the Faculty began in 1960 with the founding of a two-year Catering College, which became the Department of Catering and Tourism (a specialized fouryear university programme) at the Faculty of Economics in Rijeka in 1969. In 1974 the Department of Catering and Tourism developed into the Faculty of Hotel Management, Opatija, a modern university institution for the training of hotel and tourism industry workers, which offered different levels of university programmes undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate and

doctoral. As an attempt to harmonize the Faculty’s activities with its name, in 2008 the Faculty registered under its new name - Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management. Today, the Faculty performs numerous technical and scientific projects in Croatia and abroad and it also organizes scientific and professional conferences and round tables. Among the most significant ones is the Faculty’s traditional Hotel House, a biannual scientific-professional conference which has been organized since 1972 and which is today known under its new name: Tourism and Hospitality Industry: New Trends in Tourism and Hotel Management. The Faculty acts as publisher for numerous titles which are considered to be valuable literature in the field of tourism and hospitality. The journal Tourism and Hospitality Management, holds a crucial place among the Faculty’s publishings.

www.f thm.uniri.hr

Ethnographical and sacral heritage You may experience the richness of folk dresses, an outline of national customs and other ethnographical treasures in an ethographical collection of The Museum of Međimurje” in Čakovec, in the collections of cultural associations in Kotoriba, Sveta Marija, Mala Subotica as well as private collections of Lucija Krnjak’s family in Mačkevec and the family of Stanko Trstenjak in Marof. You must visit the most important sacral facilities that are at the same cultural monuments, like St. Hieronimous Church in Štrigova, St. Martin’s Church in Sv. Martin na Muri, St George’s Church in Lopatinec, St. Nicholas Church in Čakovec, The Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Macinec, The Church of the Holy Trinity in Nedelišće, St. Jacob’s Church in Prelog, Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Sv. Marija, Church of the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Cross Church in Kotoriba.

Međimurje Croatia’s flower garden In Međimurje, handicrafts used to be one of the most important means of survival. However, at the same time they were a medium for an artistic expression of the “common” people. The best way to experience the county’s rich heritage is by following the “Tradition Road”. The road connects a dozen of workshops presenting traditional handicrafts (potter, weaver in a loom, woodcarver, gardener in a traditional garden, weaver, carnival mask carver, traditional cuisine chef, river miller). By a prior telephone appointment, visitors can have a look around the workshop and at the same time they can get actively involved in the crafts (individually or in a group) by making a souvenir or an useful item with their own hands. At the centre of the tradition road there is a “Gallery & Educational Centre” whose collection presents a history of handicraft tradition in Međimurje. Both the “Road” and the buildings are marked by tourist signs

The Tradition Road... CROATIA AT A GLANCE

The Wine Road of Međimurje Tradition has it that the Romans were the first to plant grapevines on the gentle hills of Međimurje. Today, good asphalt roads, connecting about thirty wine cellars and tasting rooms, run through the picturesque landscape streaked with more than 2,500 acres of vineyards. There, one can taste excellent white wines (Sauvignon, , Chardonnay, Welschriesling, Rhine Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Traminer, Zeleni Silvanac, Pusipel, Yellow Muscat…) and some red wines (Pinot blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon…). The wines range from excellent blend wines, through high quality sort wines, to superior predicates – late harvest and ice wines. Wine tastings in nicely furnished tasting rooms offer a possibility to taste traditional home-made cold cuts. Individual visits to wine cellars and tasting rooms should be appointed by phone at least a few hours prior to the arrival. Individual visits to the wine road can be made by car, by bike or on foot. Except by car, organised tourist groups can visit the wine road by a special wine train. All access routes and facilities are marked by tourist signs. The wine quality and tasting rooms design place this wine road to the very top of Croatian enological offer. As a result, in 2007 it was proclaimed the best product of continental Croatia.

At the northernmost point of the Republic of Croatia, near a little place called Žabnik, the river Mura turns the impressive wheel of a wooden river mill. It is a unique example of traditional architectural heritage both in Croatia and in the broader region. The water murmur and the creaking sound of grindstone bring visitors back to the long gone 1902 when flour was grinded for the first time on that floating “oldster”. Around the mill, in an idyllic natural surrounding, a “Miller’s instructive path” has been built. Apart from offering a walk in the intact nature, this instructive path also presents a multitude of interesting information about natural and traditional heritage of the Significant Landscape of the river Mura. There is also a river raft that, just like a perpetuum mobile, takes people and vehicles from one river bank to the other, with no motor, sails or oars. The river Mura and its numerous backwaters offer a possibility to experience a true fishing adventure or a “light rafting” in traditional wooden boats. Not far from there, there is a place called Križovec where a natural-science collection is situated.

The Tradition Road...

Tourist board of Medjimurje County J. B. Jelačića 22, Čakovec , Croatia +385 (0) 40 390 191 info@tzm.hr www.tzm.hr

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Spa & sport resort Sveti Martin Spa&sport resort Sveti Martin proudly bears the following names: the best, the best-looking and the biggest thermal resort in Croatia. It earned those compliments in the last two years by receiving the Golden Plaque for improving the quality of tourist offer, awarded by the Croatian Chamber of Commerce and the Croatian Television. It was also awarded the Green Flower of Croatia with golden border by the Croatian Tourist Board, in the category of the best-looking thermal resort. A modern inner pool with thermal and plain water, numerous water effects in the biggest complex of open pools in Croatia, a wellness centre, convention halls, a shopping centre, four star apartments, several restaurants, a pub, playgrounds for several sports, organized trips, a variety of animation and entertainment, as well as many other programmes – all of the abovementioned fully justifies the name “the biggest thermal resort in Croatia”. The vicinity of the resort is also exceptional. For five consecutive times, Sveti Martin na Muri (St. Martin on the Mura river) was presented the award for one of the best-looking little places in continental Croatia by the Croatian Tourist Board. Within the EDEN project (European Destinations of Excellence), Sveti Martin na Muri was included among the ten best rural destinations in Europe.z

Međimurje is an ideal place for recreational cycling. It covers a relatively small area - therefore, in a single day or even within a few hours, it possible to combine routes that differ in terrain and contents, depending on how fit you are. The cycling routs are divided and marked in two main categories: recreation and mountain bike trails. Recreation trails run mostly through side and gravel roads where traffic is scarce. They run through beautiful landscapes connecting various cultural-historical monuments, restaurants, wine houses, boarding houses, rest areas and belvederes. The climbs are mostly mild and accessible to all generations. Mountain (off-road) trails are intended for adrenalin lovers. They mostly run through forests and meadows, sometimes with no beaten tracks. Somewhere they intersect the brook beds, the base being mostly soil and gravel. The steeps are more demanding, yet not extreme. The trails are marked with characteristic blue signs. It is possible to rent a bike in Sveti Martin Thermal Resort and services and bike shops are located in Čakovec.

Cycling CROATIA AT A GLANCE

The Zrinski Family From the mid 16 to the mid 17 century Međimurje was governed by the Zrinski noble family. The Zrinski became a part of Croatian and European history due to their military feats in the wars against the Turks, but also as poets, gastronomers, politicians, plotters and finally, as tragedians. The biographies of the family members resemble true historical ballads which even present Hollywood scriptwriters themselves wouldn’t create better. Today, the attractive historical military unit named “Zrinska garda” (The Zrinski Guard) evokes their glorious past. In the palace of The Old City of the Zrinski Family there is now the Museum of the Međimurje County Čakovec which , apart from the collection dedicated to the Zrinski family, houses a rich archaeological, historical and ethnographic collection as well as an art gallery. In the place called Šenkovec there are remnants of the Zrinski mausoleum, and in Gornji Kuršanec there is a memorial to the death of Nikola Zrinski.

The town of Čakovec is situated almost in the centre of Međimurje. The old Romans located their resting-place Aquama (wet town) in this area. The 13th century cronicles have a record of the timber “Čakov tower”, as a precursor to today’s town and its name. The Zrinski family, together with other rulers in the 16th and the 17th century turned the tower into an unconquerable and sumptuous wasserburg (a castle encircled by a moat) around which a free royal city was about to emerge. Surrounded by the park and its green leaves, the historical centre has been preserved until the present day. Around this core, a town made to human measure has emerged. Excellent communications, the most modern infrastructure, beautiful horticulture, economic progress, a dynamic cultural and sports life – all of these contribute to a cosy living of about twenty thousand inhabitants. Besides the historic core, the tourists are presented with an excellent gastronomic offer, swimming pools, various sports fields, rich night life and interesting occasions throughout the year.

Čakovec CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Trail of the sailors Great escape - rent-a-lighthouse for private vacation Author: Nika Čabrić, Photo: Croatian Lighthouses

If you ever dreamed of vacationing on a deserted island, away from all the noise, it’s time to make it happen. It is possible to get away from it all and enjoy a magnificent view of an endless horizon, all thanks to a new trend on the Adriatic coastlighthouse renting.

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Lighthouses were essential in the past for safe voyage on the Adriatic because of the well-indented coast. Their construction started in the early 19th century in time of Austro-Hungarian monarchy and they soon became the biggest and most important objects for marine signalization. Besides their light signalizations lighthouses also had a designated space for lighthouse keeper and his family. As time passed, lighthouses stopped being commercially usable and became instead monuments of zero category. Then, some ten years ago an idea emerged about lighthouses as unique vacation spots and so a new type of adventure tour-

ism developed. It was original enough for everyone and it continues to gain popularity as the years go by. The Adriatic coast has even 48 lighthouses and 13 of those are rentable. Some of them still have their keepers who maintain them and some are deserted and reserved only for admirers of Robinsonian tourism. The rooms can have from 2 to 6 occupants who can enjoy fishing, diving or can rent out boats. At the lighthouses Savudrija, Struga and Veli rat you can stay both in summer and in winter. There are plenty of challenges that tourists can experience that will guarantee them a vacation they’ll never forget.

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Off the coast of the biggest Croatian peninsula Istra there are 4 lighthouses for rent; Savudrija and Rt zub are closer to the coastal cities of Umag and Poreč and Porer and Sv.Ivan are out on the open sea and are only reachable by boat. Lighthouse Veli rat is situated on the island Dugi otok near the city of Zadar. The legend says that thousands of eggs were used for his construction so that it would fare better against salt and wind. It’s not very isolated so his guests can visit the national park Telašćica that is also on the island and the national park Kornati that is located nearby.

S L A N D T O U R I S M

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Rent-a-lighthouse

Kornati National Park is also nearby a small island Prišnjak that houses the similar lighthouse with the only inhabitants being harmless endemic types of rabbits and lizards. The island is connected with the island of Murter by boat and you can see rock walls, a small waterfront, a beautiful rock terrace and pine trees and fig trees. Island of Host is only 5 minutes by boat from the island of Vis and its sea bed is a valuable archaeological site. There is only a beach and the lighthouse on the island which offers a spectacular view of Vis on one side

and sunsets on the other side of the island. On the island of Lastovo, the biggest island of the Lastovo archipelago that consists of 50 or so islands, there is a lighthouse Struga perched on the similar cape. It offers a spectacular view of the open sea giving the observer the impression of an abandoned island although there are

several villages there. On the other hand, lighthouses Sv. Petar and Grebeni are situated near Makarska and Dubrovnik respectively and provide their guest an original housing near big cities. If you long for completely isolated lighthouses then you want Sušac and Pločica, both situated on a deserted island of Sušac.

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The most isolated lighthouse is Palagruža that is situated at the top of similar island on 90 m above the sea. This is the most remote Croatian island and is in the centre of the Adriatic, between Croatian and Italian coast. It’s a nature reserve with animal and plant endemic species and a valuable archaeological site. Without any contact with the civilisation and with a magnificent view of the endless horizon this lighthouse provides you with a really special vacation. Every lighthouse has a unique location and its own story to tell, but all of them hold a dash of history in themselves and peace and quiet you’ve only dared to dream about. Whatever you choose to send your vacation at you won’t be disappointed.

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

CRIKVENICA

Health tourism destination

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

Author: Andrea Bregovac

Photo: Tourist board Kvarner

Croatia is a country where tourism is one of the most dominant branches of economy. Its diverse and rich tourist offer encapsulates various specific types of tourism such as cultural tourism, eco-tourism, religious tourism, sport and recreational tourism, nautical tourism, gastro-tourism but also medical tourism. What is medical tourism exactly and why does Croatia makes an ideal place for potential users of this particular brand of tourism? Medical tourism is difficult to define because of its variety of services it includes. It represents all services and activities that concern health,

form wellness to spa treatments, professional and controlled medical treatment with natural herbal agents to dentist, orthopaedic and plastic surgery services. All of this can be the main reason or perhaps simply an additional incentive for your visit to Croatia. Our country possesses intact natural resources like quality air, varied vegetation, the sea, thermal waters and healthy mud that, when combined with a mild climate and sunshine, have a positive effect on health. This was first recognized in the 19th century when medical tourism blossomed in Croatia and

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the first sanatoriums and spas in Crikvenica, Mali Lošinj, Opatija and Rovinj were founded. Croatia provides quality medical services in upto-date equipped medical centres. Combined with reasonable prices, it is no wonder that more and more foreign tourists use their vacation time here for medical purposes. The main reason medical tourism is popular today lies in our way of living. Stress, pollution and fast food are our everyday life now and that causes many health problems that people seek to alleviate via medical tourism. A good example is the widespread popularity of wellness centres and spas that are growing more popular in Croatia so more and more hotels include it in their offers. Massages, sea therapies, antistress therapies, detox treatments and beauty treatments...all these are nowadays a regular art of every hotel. We can recommend two destinations for medical tourism; island Lošinj and the city of Crikvenica. Lošinj is an island in the Kvarner Bay that has mild climate and quality sea air with rich flora. Almost 100 years ago both Mali Lošinj and Veli

Lošinj were recognized as climate sanatoriums. Today there is a sanatorium for respiratory related illnesses in Veli Lošinj that is situated outside city centre and is protected by a garden of exotic Mediterranean vegetation that is roughed by pathways. The second destination is Crikvenica, a city where in 1885 a special respiratory illnesses hospital was founded because of the agreeable local climate. It was the precursor to today’s thalassotherapy that uses sea water, sea air and various sea minerals like algae to improve health. Other places that use thalassotheraphy today are sanatoriums in Opatija, Rovinj and Veli Lošinj. In Crikvenica you can enjoy yourself in the newly renovated hotel Therapia. Its building was built in the late 19th century in Jundgenstil type of architecture, during the AustroHungarian monarchy and it came with rooms designated for hydrotherapy. This 4-star hotel offers wellness treatments where you can experience massages, aroma treatments or beauty treatments, or perhaps indulge in face and body treatments based on sea water, sea salt and algae. If you’re feeling adventurous though,

you can always visit the Crikvenica adrenaline park that is located in the city’s centre. It’s a great place for teambuilding exercises, educational seminars and excursions and we definitely recommend it if you find yourself in the vicinity. There are many destinations that Croatia has to offer and whatever you choose, you will certainly experience the benefits of our sun, thermal waters and sea air.

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Interview with Boris Ljubičić Author: Branimir Pađen Photo: Boris Ljubičić

Designer is responsible for the space and time he creates in!

Boris Ljubičić is a world-known explorer of visual communication and design. He was the president of Croatian Designers society from 2003 to 2005 and one of the 5 jury members in charge of choosing the best world logo in professional and student category S2010. He’s the visual identity author for the Mediterranean games and he has been heavily involved in creating Croatian visual identity since the 90ties. You have been a designer for over 3 decades, you’ve won numerous awards and your works are in every major world designer publications. What part of your career do you think helped most in establishing yourself as an artist? How much did your small-town background complicate things? The most important is the first period that lasted almost 10 years when no one accepted me. That’s the time when you develop your worldview and your personal attitude within it. Those works were unintelligible to potential clients but were actually self-explanatory and „ordinary“ people got them, unlike marketing experts who didn’t recognize in those works imported design that was desirable. For example, NEVA cosmetics was a copy of German brand NIVEA, Zagreb’s tobacco factory (TDZ) had a heraldic lion motif just like Phillip Morris (on Marlboro cigarettes) but they had blue colour like the typical Zagreb blue, instead of gold. I designed the logo for Sarajevo’s tobacco factory (FDS) that had a cigarette on each letter, and the letter F had a filter so everybody understood it was a tobacco factory logo. That was in 1973 and Sarajevo was a province compared to Zagreb. The most interesting example was the VIII. Mediterranean games that were held in Split in 1979; their logo was much defined and represented a derivate of the Olympic logo but it had 3 circles in blue (Europe), black (Africa) and yellow (Asia) that were the obligatory part of the bid. My design had only blue colour and the circles were uneven because they were immersed in the Mediterranean - a unique area that has its history, culture and civilisation. The CROATIA AT A GLANCE

bid was repeated 3 times in 9 months and I sent the exact same design that is the official logo of all future games in the Mediterranean, just like the one for the Olympics. I liked designing absolute solutions where you have to use all the possibilities that the content offers. Many of my designs weren’t used, like the one for the Winter Olympics in Sarajevo in 1984 or the one for the 1987 World University Games (Univerzijada) in Zagreb. I „broke“ rules there too. I call them my „unadjusted“ works that I adjusted later bit by bit and created them in a whole new concept. During socialism we were defined by our former country’s borders, but only my works were published in manuals and books from Japan to the US and Canada as examples of their uniqueness and professionalism they exuded. I don’t mourn for a career in the West because I feel that the designer is responsible for the space and time he creates in. You’ve been involved in creating Croatian national identity since the 90ties. How successful was Croatia in positioning herself as a global brand? Not very much! Croatia complicated her visual story with her dull coat of arms and her flag that the politicians use to hide themselves, because it’s written in the Constitution and it’s a part of a politically indoctrinated nation with a claim that Croatia defended herself under that flag and that, surely, not every new government will have its own flag or even with a position that we should let this matter rest since we have more important problems to deal with. It’s not a change in flag design, like some say-it’s a change of Croatia herself. Croatia has been without her vision for 20 years unfortunately. It’s actually the first Croatia and the main reason for my project of SECOND Croatia. SECOND Croatia is not the first; it’s a measure of humility but also of a brand new beginning. The first Croatia was created by the first president and his party but other parties also made their contribution and we have this today because you can’t turn back the time. The euphoria

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and happiness that we experienced when we got our independence caused mistakes that will remain permanent unless we start over. There’s no use in ‘crying over spilled milk’. Everybody is dissatisfied and unhappy nowadays; the economists, the workers, the syndicates, employed and unemployed, intellectuals......let’s face it, the first Croatia is done with. To fix it doesn’t make any sense-we need a SECOND Croatia. Elements of the vision are what we’ve written on 11 different posters: 1/different, 2/good, 3/beautiful, 4/worldly, 5/ Croatian. To isolate, recognize and form a SECOND Croatia we need to define ourselves by using those 5 terms. We need diversity in regard to others, mostly our first neighbours, and we have plenty of those but I’ll mention our sea and numerous islands that we have. The sea that we haven’t protected enough so I once launched a slogan: “SEA is LAND. “ The difference itself is not enough, it’s also important that it’s good. Only after those two does the ‘beautiful’ come, as an aesthetic extract. If we have something global, like for example the cravat, then ‘Croatian’ is also global but the world needs to know it came from us. Why wouldn’t we have the first museum of cravat in the world? Indeed, Croatian is something that doesn’t possess any of these characteristics or it does but not in abundance, but Croatian is Croatian and we need to cherish it, respect it, develop it.....how to make it happen? By changing people? By changing of the system? Yes, but first: we need to announce a change that will provide the energy and the vision to those who are dissatisfied and to tell them it’s the right time for them, for their SECOND Croatia. My project is very different from any party program and their goal-to win the election. No, this is an awareness-changing project. The solutions that are on the posters are a bit more intellectual but I think that our people, especially the new generations, are not idiots and that they understand it as well as the fact they can’t do anything if this continues, with two parties with similar slogans; in that aspect we resent a unique case of idyll that is leading us slowly into abyss. The flag we have is the picture of Croatia we have. The concept of replacing the star with the coat of arms and its subsequent touch-ups is the fulfilment of all those provincial desires of those who were responsible for the change, but also of the ones who wrote it into the Constitution without a word. Those who deal with heraldry, historians and politicians used one artist they chose to design Croatia as a state, besides the flag. That of course followed the natural way of things and translated onto passports, registration tabs, IDs........and almost everybody is marked by visually coded by this identity, we have to be proud of it and to protect it according to law that is written in the Constitution. First of all, European republics don’t have coats of arms. We say it’s our history. It seems then that France, Italy, Germany or the Kingdom of Netherlands and the United Kingdom don’t have history. My concept is very simple and clear: how to preserve history in modern times. It’s a synthesis of tricolour and the historical coat of arms: entire surface is covered with squares in red, white and blue. Their size is the same in all 3 lines of colours so we have 3x6 or 18 squares, and we can also use a shorter version that flows better, 3x5 squares. The blue and red squares alternate when entering the second line and they give out a certain loose vibe that resembles our intended coastline. By using the concept known as 2 squares we can design separate logos and brands. You can find it Croatian television logo (2 reds), Croatian Tourist Board (red and blue), Zagreb Fair (two white) and in some 50 or so other examples of mostly my design. The fact that they exist shows what the purpose of the flag is for, as a basic visual of one country. We are the only ones in the world who have a more recognizable football jersey than

the flag. Of course, we won’t change it. It’s funny that it was created for the first game in 1990, meaning before the official flag was created and that „mistake“ was fortunately permanent. My flag design form July 1990 was published in several newspapers at the time, with texts and interviews, but it didn’t have any effect. Now everybody follows some rule where we can’t change something we’ve absorbed and put into the Constitution when all the while we change a little something in that same Constitution. We can and we will, and it would be wise to do it before entering the EU. You’re the author of the universally accepted two-interchangeable-squares concept as the Croatian visual code, the popular „cubes“. What would you single out as the positive examples of usage of that concept? The first usage was for Croatia Airlines logo, a blue and red square (1990-1992). It lasted only a short while but I provided the same concept to restaurants CROATICA. They were restaurants owned by Croats in Western Europe, mostly Germany. There’s a saying: „Love goes through the stomach“. The application was on the cutlery (plates, cups, knives) because at the time nobody in Croatia was interested in that or in my idea about a visual identity of our new country. I tried by using that concept to change the old one and to cover the key areas: media, economy, tourism, infrastructure, culture..... nobody commissioned anything from me, they were all public bids. Juries usually consisted of people who were against my famous two-square design but my professionalism forced them to recognize and award it. Croatian national television was certainly the strongest as far the media goes, with is easy access to every household and corner of Croatia and even further than that. Many of the iconic jingles I did for the Croatian national television they don’t even keep in their archive today, only the logo remains. They occasionally enlarge it but it carries no ideas in it. In one of their latest jingles they visualised the logo as a dog that follows the TV hostess as she announces the new fall programme. Zagreb Fair is alive all year round because they always host exhibitions and fairs. Their obligatory flags that adorn the city make the logo visible but their media materials, web pages and other have a very small logo that’s almost invisible. Their logo shows a group of business people who have come from all over the world; one has a briefcase, other a smaller briefcase (file holder or a laptop) and together they make two white squares. Croatian tourism is under the jurisdiction of the Croatian Tourist Board and it represents the most serious promotion of Croatia in the world. Their logo can be translated into any world language without changing its design. I made a complete alphabet in an originally written press but the most important detail is the fourth letter A that symbolizes the Adriatic Sea as the basic motif of our tourism. The Croatian Auto Club (HAK) is the simplest one because of the traffic speed that symbolizes it. The solution is simple dynamic lettering and alterative fields that are located on the first letter H and their tops create a dynamic red square (rhomboid). The Miroslav Krleža Lexicographic Institute has a permutation of the letter L into letter Z and of course, two squares. CRO SKI has a red and blue dive in squares like letters R and S. The squares don’t have to always be in red-bluewhite colours because they can stand as a separate graphic form. Danubiumtours has a green and blue square because Danube flows through flat Pannonia. The square pattern can be indicated with grid lines like with Documentation Centre Museum or the Institute IGH (Croatian civil engineering institute). There are over 50 of my Croatian logos.

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Croatia will be entering the EU soon. How do you plan on launching the Croatian brand in order to make it more marketable on the European market? First, some information about the EU. In 2002 I started a project EUROPE 2020 in which I called upon all of my European colleagues, from and outside the EU, to give their vision of the European future. In two public invitations (2003 and 2005) we received 240 posters in B1 format (70x100cm) that have been travelling, since then, through European capitals and politicians are in charge of official openings. I opened one in Athens and Bruxelles and two in Zagreb. The motto of my invitation was „Why? “and it said: „Europe is the cradle of Western civilization and it, as such, fostered the development of civilization in other parts of the world over the centuries. Its form is not homogeneous, neither is its identity. It does not have a single currency and many of its other features are also very diverse. Europe has its North and South, its East and West. Western European politicians try hard to unite Europe, while Eastern European politicians do their best to bring their countries closer to the European Union. There are two main criteria on the basis of which the ultimate unification of Europe should be ‘measured’: time and the vision of what we wish Europe to be like in the future. Experience and numerous events that occurred in the past (particularly in the twentieth century) were by no means positive. Design is a new cultural, civilizational and economic achievement oriented towards the future, rather than the past. Europe needs visions of its future and its designers can and should provide such visions. Therefore, let this exhibition be a stimulus for a project aimed at the creation of a vision of Europe in the future, that is, a project in which EVERYBODY (from Eastern and Western, Northern and Southern Europe) can participate. The amount of ideas and the competition among them will open new horizons and offer, perhaps, a glimpse into the visions which have been unknown so far. The twenty-first century is a challenge for the entire world, particularly for Europe, because it is Europe that is still being constituted. The shaping of Europe is designers’ job in the widest sense of the word which is so frequently and extensively used, that is, of the medium which constantly changes the world. The large number of participants in this first competition, as well as the high quality of their work proves that design can be a ‘synthesis of our continent.’“ The Croatian government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have used this exhibition as a promotion tool for Croatian approach to EU although it was not intended for it. But, as we’re entering the EU, completely unprepared in my opinion, we need to redesign the flag and other state features so that it naturally translates into the economy area, and if it doesn’t then we can tart with two squares on products and brands until we resolve this. But the question is who will force entrepreneurs to follow logic of design and to single out their product in huge European market? Last question: your plans for the future, new projects? I have to say that almost all of my projects are borrowed from the future because they’re either not realized yet or they have yet to start living fully. Of course, I continue to create, with or without cause.

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LTGB

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LGTB Tourism Rab - Top gay destination in Croatia Author: Nika Ä&#x152;abriÄ&#x2021;, Photo: Tourist Board Kvarner

It is known that the sun, sea and beautiful beaches are no longer a sufficient attraction itself and much more is needed in order to attract domestic and foreign tourists to visit any destination on the Croatian coast. In particular, if we want to get the attention of the LGBT population, custom-

CROATIA AT A GLANCE

ized travel, cultural and hospitality services should be developed and created methodically for the target population. For gay destinations, cordiality and understanding of the local population and hosts is a very important segment, and tourist community support is a necessity.

An interesting fact is that Croatia is on a yearly basis visited by 200,000 gay tourists. Destinations such as Dubrovnik, Hvar, Rab, Krk, Rovinj, Rijeka and Zagreb over the years have proven themselves as gay friendly. LGBT tourists are usually very grateful guests and cus-

LTGB turizam

tomers of a deeper pocket. They know what they want and expect a high level of service. They also expect professionalism from the staff to the extent that, for example it is quite normal to hug or kiss in the lobby of the hotel. Most gay tourists prefer destinations with contents for LGBT populations, such as clubs, bars and entertainment just for them, while on the other hand, many travel regardless of whether the destination have specialized contents, but would have certainly chosen a gay-friendly hotel instead of a regular hotel. Apart from entertainment, gay tourists like to eat well, taste local specialties and are generally hedonists. In one word gay population loves to travel, and according to some surveys to them it is more important than buying clothes or cars. Rab as the most attractive gayfriendly destinations in Croatia Island of Love, also known as Rab, is a famous destination among the LGBT population since the eighties of the 20th century. With the support of tourist board, local residents and caterers, the island of Rab is slowly becoming not only the top LGBT destination in Croatia, but even beyond. This is corroborated by the fact that CNN named it “Shangri-La” of all naturist destinations. In summer 2011 with the project ‘Rab Gay Summer’, which includes a variety of activities and specialized products, Rab became the first exclusive gay - friendly destination in Croatia. Considering the history of the island, its openness from the early days, Rab has emerged as a truly ideal destination. On the island of Rab there is a series of gayfriendly accommodations, a gay bar, and a new gay club is opening soon. A special gay week, named Adriatic Gay Week, was organized this year in June and late August, with various cultural and tourist attractions. The main actuators of the destination this year were famous

musicians from all over the world. The organization and the branding of the first circuit party that could draw thousands of LGBT people seeking entertainment will start this fall. The organizers have made a Rab Gay Guide, a flyer that will bring the beauty of this island to all LGBT visitors, and on which they indicated an important gay-friendly places. Flyers are located in both, the Tourist Board office in the city and the gay-friendly bars. Tourists who come to the island independently can go to the Tourist Board and learn about locations that have been proposed as a gay-friendly. The first official nudist beach in Europe is one of the main gay beaches on the island of Rab today. It is Kandalora, also called the English beach, and all due to interesting fact that the English king Edward VIII and Lady Simpson received official permission for nude bathing back in 1936th and thus started the trend of the naturist bathing. Kandalora is not packed with nudists, but is even more visited by those who prefer calmer bays and holidays. Rab slowly, but surely moves toward becoming LGBT destination like many similar world-famous LGBT destinations, and to help Croatia open its eyes wide to the west.

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ACI

SAILING CENTRE CRES The unique chain of the ACI marinas is a part of a successful nautical story on the Croatian part of the Adriatic. An important part of this story are hundred thousands of boaters that have entrusted us with their confidence. The same has happened with a large number of world-class sailers who have taken part in the world most famous match races organized by ACI and who have become the best ambassadors of Croatia to the world. Therefore, do trust us, we are offering you a unique sailing project along the Adriatic based on our thirty-year-long experience, an impeccable logistics, a fleet of twelve top sailing boats and a professional team who are going to bring you closer to the fascinating world of sailing with programmes made especially to fit your desire. What are we offering? Considering our long experience in organizing the world greatest regattas, business to business events and promotional sailings, we are offering you the CROATIA AT A GLANCE

following three main programmes: SPORT We are really experts and specially enthusiastic in the organization of toprate sailing regattas. A fleet of twelve equal type high performance Jeanneau One Design 35 sailing boats, equipped with a high-tech equipment and a suit of sails can guarantee an exciting and top-quality sailing, a sport event offering so much fun both on sea and ashore. BUSINESS Sailing represents today one of the activities becoming more and more popular and appreciated within the business world. The most famous output where experience in sailing, imbued with adrenaline, and business contacts are connected together into a unity is the America’s Cup. We are offering you a unique opportunity to take part at the B2B (Business to Business) and experience events that you and your business partners as well will remember for ever. Furthermore, altough team building on

sea appears as something that you have already seen, do try our „specialities“, since we are offering an unforgettable experience closely linked to competition, learning and cooperation of all team members. PLEASURE If a romantic escape, a one-day sailing adventure or a wonderful holiday based on the ACI Marina Cres impeccable organization and logistics is aimed at, we are offering you a number of opportunities that will make your leisure time a very special one. Our resources The infrastructure assuring that your stay at the ACI Marina Cres will be both qualitative and pleasant, is at your disposal Jeanneau One Design 35 ( JOD 35) A fleet of twelve sailing boats is the only fleet of this type along the Croatian coast of the Adriatic. It was completly renewed in 2010, and is equipped with more suit of sails, the Dacronic and the most sophisticated Carbon-

Sailing tourism

cevlar ones, as well as with the newest Harken sailing equipment. There is accommodation for a crew of six. ACI Marina Cres The ACI Marina Cres, one of the most beautiful and best equipped marinas along the Adriatic, is located at the bottom of the Cres bay. The heartiness and kindness of the inhabitants of this island as well as its wonderful and magic environment are undoubtedly one of the reasons why guests of the ACI Marina Cres feel comfortable and relaxed and are coming back over and over again. Among them are also skippers and crew members who took part at a number of regattas, world and European championships regularly organized in the ACI Marina Cres. Apartments Within the ACI Marina Cres, there are eight modern and newly refurbished apartments at the disposal of their guests. Twenty persons can be well accommodated in a two- or fourbed apartments that, with their loca-

tion and surrounded by olive trees, represent an ideal accommodation for sailers aimed at sailing on board the ACI Marina Cres sailing boats, thus offering an opportunity for a comfortable and pleasant stay on the island of Cres. The Mediterranean to your own standards Once you have reached the ACI Sailing Centre Cres, you have a plain view of all those valuable things that make many of our guests come back to the island of Cres for many years. The island of Cres is the largest island on the Adriatic, but at the same time one of the most peculiar islands due to its unique flora and fauna as well as to the well preserved ecological balance and an untouched nature. It is an island of a mystic peace, of an Arcadian landscape and of real monuments of the human efforts reflecting themselves in the infinitive chains of huge stone blocks and dry stone walls that cover the whole island as a precious lace. Cres is also the

home of the griffon vulture. Apart from its natural attractions, the island of Cres offers delicious food originating from the island – the best lamb’s meat and the famous scampi from the Kvarner Bay. But that is not all we are offering you – let us add to this seaborne story the taste of the Mediterranean as it used to be combined with the impeccable organization made by our team and the updated standards of the offer to meet your requirements. Besides, the region of Istria, with its rich and varied offer, is within easy reach and, if necessary, our sailing boats can be located in Istria offering you a new story under sails, olive trees and truffles. And if you prefer the colours and charms of Dalmatia, our fleet can be at your disposal in the south, and our unique chain of marinas will bid you a warm welcome. It is from the town walls of Dubrovnik, over the Pakleni Islands, the Krka Falls or the untouched wilderness of the Kornati Archipelgo that we are offering you a particular story that can be brought under the common name of sailing.

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ACI Twenty nine years of a successful tradition and long experience as one of the best known nautical systems on the Mediterranean and, undoubtedly, in the world as well, an innovative approach and uncovering the most beautiful natural resources to boaters for their permanent stay, not diminishing their natural beauty or the spots ecological harmony, makes ACI fully satisfied and extremely proud. The “ACI’s Day” that we traditionally celebrate on July 1st in all marinas often reminds us of the time twenty nine years ago when the first marinas opened their doors and berthed the first boats and are remembered with joy. And it was a real visionary feat. Since then, nautical Croatia prints its exceptionally rich nautical-tourist story. Today, it is impossible to speak about nautical tourism along the Adriatic coast without mentioning the ACI, a chain of marinas offering a high standard service with 6000 mooring and dry berths to the boaters from all around the world. One of the greatest advantages of the ACI marinas is their traffic accessibility to European centres. By a system of modern motorways in Croatia as well as an increased number of flights of domestic airlines and those of foreign and lowcost, the whole Adriatic coast has good and fast connections to the Europe. New, more often catamaran and ferry lines have been introduced in high season, thus enabling even better connection with the ACI marinas on the islands. CROATIA AT A GLANCE

A chain of 21 charming marinas along the picturesque Croatian coast

Beside this traffic accessibility, the chain of 21 ACI marinas, with its ideal geographic indentedness from Umag in the north, to Dubrovnik in the south, attract boaters by offering them a safe berth, and modern and impeccable high-quality services. Along with this, the marinas are real gastronomic centres with the top selection of dishes of the Mediterranean and international cuisine, and of quality wines. Year after year, the ACI has been affirmed for the care that it is taking in the environmental protection, so that ten of our marinas proudly display the “European Blue Flag” – an eco-award for the safety and the cleanliness of the sea. And recently we have put into operation new wash-up waste water treatment plants in several ACI marinas. Sailing and organization of regattas is also the ACI trademark. The world’s famous skippers will with great joy mention the memories that tie them to the ACI Match Race Cup, which was held over the years in Rovinj, Dubrovnik, Umag and Split. At this year’s, the 25th jubilee ACI Match Race Cup, a prestigious match racing event, the best Croatian skippers and crews have gathered. During all these years, the ACI Match Race Cup, organized by ACI and the Yacht Club Croatia, has been and remains a true sports and cultural event with a variety of additional programs held after the splendid allday races and the magic of white sails on the race field.

And for all those who yearn for events on the sea, and who like many other world known sailors want to try out the passion and pleasure of sailing, the ACI, by opening a Sailing center within the ACI Marina Cres, offered a number of different sailing programmes on Cres, one of the most beautiful island in the Adriatic Sea. The offered programmes include professionally organized regattas, training and team building programs on 12 equal JOD 35 type sailing boats. To many lovers of boating and nautical fashion, in the ACI marina Opatija in Ičići, the ACI Blue Marine Boutique is opened, offering exclusive nautical clothes and accessories in colours of the sun and the sea representing the new ACI brand in always attractive and readily worn maritime style. Part of the collection is also available in shopping points at the receptions of several ACI marinas. ACI motto is “Understanding the boaters” so the ACI team strives to recognize the boaters’ needs and tries hard to provide them with maximal and timely service. The fact that, year after year, we have great results and growing number of loyal guests in our nautical family tells us that we are successful in doing our job. Therefore, we invite you – if you want to enjoy exploring the Adriatic in its entirety – to sail with us as your reliable partner along the coast of the Adriatic Sea. …. Navigare necesse est!

Sailing tourism

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