Dalmatia, Croatia
Dalmatia, Croatia
Dalmatia is a beautiful and fascinating region in Croatia that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Dalmatia has it all. With its stunning coastline, charming towns, and delicious cuisine, it is no wonder that Dalmatia is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.
Looking for an adventure in one of Croatia’s most beautiful regions? Look no further than Dalmatia Outdoors! Our website offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to rafting and kayaking. With expert guides and stunning natural landscapes, we provide an unforgettable experience for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts!
A short history of Dalmatia, Croatia
Dalmatia has a rich history that dates back to the Roman Empire. The region was named after the ancient Illyrian tribe of the Dalmatae, who inhabited the area during the Iron Age. In the 1st century BC, Dalmatia became part of the Roman Empire and was an important center of trade and commerce.
During the Middle Ages, Dalmatia was ruled by various kingdoms and empires, including the Byzantine Empire, the Venetian Republic, and the Ottoman Empire. In the 19th century, Dalmatia became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and remained under Austrian rule until the end of World War I.
After World War I, Dalmatia became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, which later became the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Following the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, Dalmatia became part of the newly independent country of Croatia.
Where is Dalmatia, Croatia?
Dalmatia is a region in Croatia that extends along the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea. It covers an area of approximately 12,000 square miles and stretches from the island of Pag in the north to the Bay of Kotor in the south. Dalmatia is divided into three parts: Northern Dalmatia, Central Dalmatia, and Southern Dalmatia.
Best time to visit Dalmatia, Croatia
The best time to visit Dalmatia is during the summer months of June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is warm enough for swimming. However, the peak season can also be crowded and expensive, so travelers who prefer a quieter experience may want to consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May and October.
How Dalmatia Got its Name
Dalmatia is named after the ancient Illyrian tribe of the Dalmatae, who inhabited the region during the Iron Age. The name Dalmatae is thought to have originated from the Illyrian word delme, which means "sheep." The region was known for its sheep farming, and the Dalmatae were known for their wool production.
Things to do in Dalmatia, Croatia
Dalmatia is a popular destination for travelers seeking beautiful beaches, historic sites, and delicious cuisine. Here are some of the top things to do while visiting Dalmatia:
Visit the city of Split
Split is one of the largest cities in Dalmatia and is home to the Palace of Diocletian, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 4th century AD. The palace is a stunning example of ancient Roman architecture and is one of the most well-preserved ancient structures in the world. Walk around Split and you’ll never want to leave!
Explore the town of Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a picturesque town located in Southern Dalmatia and is known for its well-preserved medieval walls and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Visitors can take a stroll along the city walls, explore the old town, or take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Srd for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding area.
See the sunset in Zadar
Zadar is a city with a rich history that dates back to Roman times. Explore the city's many historic sites, such as the Roman Forum and the Church of St. Donatus, which is one of the best-preserved examples of Byzantine architecture in the world. Other must-see attractions in Zadar include the Sea Organ, an art installation that produces music from the waves of the sea, and the Sun Salutation, a large solar-powered disc that lights up at night.
Don’t miss Šibenik
Šibenik is a charming coastal city that is famous for its stunning architecture and beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the city's many historic sites, such as the UNESCO-listed St. James Cathedral, which is one of the most impressive examples of Renaissance architecture in Croatia. Other popular attractions in Sibenik include the Krka National Park, where you can see the stunning Skradinski Buk waterfall, and the medieval fortress of St. Michael, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
Go island hopping
Dalmatia is home to over 1,000 islands, and many of them are easily accessible by ferry or boat. Some of the most popular islands to visit include Hvar, Brac, Vis, Korcula and Solta which are known for their beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages.
Try local cuisine
Dalmatian cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, olive oil, and local wines. Some of the most popular dishes to try include black risotto, octopus salad, and peka, a traditional Croatian dish made with meat, potatoes, and vegetables cooked in a covered dish over an open fire.
Relax on the beach
Dalmatia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia, including Zlatni Rat Beach in Bol and Pakleni Islands near Hvar. Visitors can swim in crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on sandy beaches, or go snorkelling or scuba diving to explore the underwater world.
Fun facts about Dalmatia, Croatia
Some of the oldest towns in Croatia
Dalmatia is known for its beautiful beaches, but it is also home to some of the oldest and most well-preserved towns in Croatia. The city of Split, located in Central Dalmatia, is home to the Palace of Diocletian, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 4th century AD.
Dalmatian cuisine
Dalmatia is also known for its cuisine, which features fresh seafood, olive oil, and local wines. Some of the most popular dishes in Dalmatia include black risotto, octopus salad, and peka, a traditional Croatian dish made with meat, potatoes, and vegetables cooked in a covered dish over an open fire.
The world's smallest cathedral
The world's smallest cathedral is in Dalmatia: The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, located on the tiny island of Krapanj, is the smallest cathedral in the world. It can only fit around 20 people inside and was built in the 17th century as a place of worship for the local population.
Unique musical tradition
Dalmatia has a unique musical tradition: The klapa singing tradition is a type of a cappella singing that originated in Dalmatia and is recognized as an important part of the region's cultural heritage. The songs are typically sung by a group of male singers and are often about love, nature, and the sea.
Wine-making tradition
Dalmatia has a unique wine-making tradition: The region is home to several indigenous grape varieties, including Plavac Mali and Tribidrag, which are used to make rich, full-bodied red wines. The steep slopes and rocky terrain of Dalmatia's vineyards make wine production a challenging but rewarding endeavor.
The world's oldest public theatre
Dalmatia is home to the world's oldest public theatre: The Theatre of Hvar, located on the island of Hvar, is the oldest public theatre in Europe, and possibly the world. The theatre was built in the early 17th century and is still in use today, hosting performances during the summer months.
Dalmatian Dog Breed
Another fun fact about Dalmatia is that it is home to the Dalmatian dog breed, which is known for its white coat with black spots. The breed is thought to have originated in the region and was used as a guard dog and carriage dog.
Game of Thrones
The city of Dubrovnik was a major filming location for Game of Thrones: Dubrovnik, with its well-preserved medieval walls and picturesque old town, was used as a filming location for the popular HBO series Game of Thrones.
Tailor-Made Holidays in Croatia
Dalmatia Outdoors offers tailor-made holidays in Croatia, a country with beautiful Dalmatian coastlines and a warm Adriatic sea.
We bring you the experience and know-how to design a tailor-made holiday that you will always remember.