With its unique horseshoe shape, Croatia straddles the coast of the Adriatic and shares its border with five other countries. This location has lent itself to build a variety of civilisations across its history, from Roman ruins to medieval cities. Journey through time with these historic cities in Croatia.
Pula
For the history buffs, Pula boasts a mammoth treasure trove of Roman history. It is one of the best-preserved ancient towns in Croatia with jaw-dropping feats around every corner. Start with its Amphitheatre – the sixth largest in the world that now entertains crowds with concerts and events – before moving on to the Temple of Augustus, Arch of the Sergii and Roman Forum. You can end your time in Pula at its Archaeological Museum, full of fascinating artifacts from the region.
Split
Split – Croatia’s second largest city – is a city within a city. Diocletian, a Roman Emperor in the fourth century, built a retirement palace for himself here, with the rest of the city forming around it. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Diocletian went all out with temples, baths, a peristyle courtyard and mausoleum. You can easily wile away half a day exploring every nook and cranny of Diocletian’s Palace.
Dubrovnik
From its winding cobblestone streets to walking atop its ancient walls, Dubrovnik truly is the Pearl of the Adriatic. Enter this fully walled city to find an immaculately preserved medieval Old Town. Two highlights include Rector’s Palace (half museum, half original palace where you can still see some of its residences) and Franciscan Monastery (home to one of the oldest pharmacy collections in Europe).
Zadar
Zadar is a beautiful coastal city, melding Roman, Venetian and medieval influences all-in-one. From the old to the new…stroll through the Roman Forum with its Temple of Jupiter (built in the first century AD and now in ruins) and Venetian gate; and don’t miss its Sea organ – an incredible piece that combines architecture with sound, playing music using the natural movement of the sea.
If you enjoy ancient architecture and coastal cities, Croatia is an excellent country to visit. Experience all that it has to offer on a Globus or Cosmos tour, or an Avalon Waterways river cruise.
