Croatia
Croatia – Where History Echoes in Stone and Water
ENGLISH
10/24/20253 min read
Main Gem: Pula & The Arena
Welcome to Pula, a city where the past and present walk hand in hand. At first glance, it looks like a charming seaside town. But turn a corner, and suddenly — there it is.
The Pula Arena, standing tall for almost 2,000 years. Built in the 1st century AD under Emperor Vespasian, it’s one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Imagine the roar of 20,000 spectators, the clash of swords, and the drama of gladiators fighting for glory.
Today, instead of gladiators, the Arena hosts concerts and festivals. Elton John has performed here, as have countless other world stars. Picture it: music echoing through stone walls that once echoed with battle cries. That’s Croatia — a blend of the ancient and the modern, always with a touch of magic.
Where History Echoes in Stone
and Water
When you think of Croatia, maybe your mind goes straight to turquoise seas, medieval towns, or Game of Thrones filming spots. But this country is far more than a postcard backdrop — it’s a place where Roman gladiators once roared, waterfalls carve poetry into stone, and islands scatter across the Adriatic like jewels on blue velvet.
Let’s begin in the heart of Istria — with a city that has one of the most extraordinary Roman arenas outside of Italy.
Croatia
Taste of Croatia: What to Eat
A trip to Croatia isn’t complete without tasting its rich flavors.
In Istria, try truffles (black and white) grated over homemade pasta.
On the coast, savor fresh Adriatic fish and octopus salad.
Don’t miss peka — slow-cooked meat and vegetables baked under an iron bell.
And for dessert? Kroštule (crispy pastries) or fritule (little doughnuts with raisins).
Wash it all down with a glass of local wine ...... Na Zdravlje!
1. Rovinj
Just a short drive from Pula lies Rovinj, a town that feels like it was painted onto the Adriatic. Cobbled streets twist uphill to the Church of St. Euphemia, while pastel houses lean close together as if sharing secrets. Fishermen still bring in the day’s catch here, and evenings are best spent with a glass of Malvazija wine while the sun melts into the horizon.
4 Hidden Gems:
Rovinj
Kornati Islands
If heaven had an archipelago, it would look like the Kornati Islands. Over 80 islands and islets scattered across a sea so clear it feels unreal. George Bernard Shaw once wrote: “On the last day of creation, God desired to crown His work, and created Kornati out of tears, stars, and breath.” Whether you sail, snorkel, or just drift in silence, you’ll understand exactly what he meant.
Kornati Islands
Pazinska Jama
Deep in Istria lies a place that blends nature and legend — the Pazinska Jama (Pazin Cave). Here, a mighty chasm swallows the Pazinčica River into the earth, inspiring myths and even writers like Jules Verne. Standing at the edge, watching the water disappear into darkness, you can feel why it has always fascinated travelers. Some even say it’s a gateway to the underworld. Dare to peek in?
Pazinska Jama
Plitvice Lakes
Croatia’s most famous natural wonder — the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Sixteen turquoise lakes connected by hundreds of waterfalls, all nestled in lush green forests. Wooden walkways take you right over the rushing waters, where every turn looks like a scene from a fantasy film. UNESCO calls it a World Heritage Site. Visitors simply call it unforgettable.
Plitvice Lakes
Croatia is a country where the sea meets stone, where history meets myth, and where every corner hides a new story. From Roman arenas to secret caves, from painted towns to waterfalls that sing — every traveler finds their gem here.
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