A glance at a map will help to explain its physical appeal. Over 1,000 offshore islands accompany its spectacular crystal-clear, unpolluted coastline on the Adriatic Sea. Although it is quite easy to overindulge in sun and sea during the summer months, Croatia s rich cultural heritage should not be ignored. The coastline is littered with palaces, temples, amphitheatres, and fortified towns as a consequence of Roman domination, while a baroque style of architecture illustrates the previous Austro-Hungarian influence on the continent. Perhaps what is most intriguing about the country is the way of its people.
Croatian society is very well integrated.
There is a sense of cultural continuity and persistence that has been unbelievably disrupted by various forces. Ralph Bogert, U of T professor of south Slavic languages and cultural histories, believes that it is really no accident that Croatian identity survived. With all of its richness and variety, Croatia s sense of national identity is very strong. Croats know all about the world, says Bogert. You can live in Croatia and not feel cut off from the rest of the world whatsoever, at least in terms of cultural media.