Croatia is unique, not just for its crystal clear and blue sea, but for the veritable treasure lying in the diversity of its rich cultural heritage. Numerous touristic countries are very rich when it comes to the cultural heritage that attracts tourists, but there is only a few of them who can boast to have that in such a small area like Croatia does. Historically, Croatia has been at the crossroads of various cultural influences due to its geographic location between the East and West, and between Central Europe and the Mediterranean region, with influence from the Balkans as well. Therefore, it has developed a diverse artistic, literary and musical tradition throughout centuries. This rich cultural combination is reflected in the greatness of the Croatian monuments, its traditions and its food. The result is a rich cultural heritage that lives beyond museums and other cultural institution– a living, breathing heritage that is still present in households of every Croatian region, its people passing down local customs and way of life to next generations. Croatia is ranked fourth in the world in the UNESCO list for its intangible heritage, after China, Japan and Korea. The natural beauty of Croatia and its cities is already worldrenowned, while the culture has deeper layers and multiple aspects, some of which have been recognised and protected by international organisations such as UNESCO. Although Croats show a strong sense of national pride after centuries of conflict, regional cultures are still upheld, characterized by differences in topography, economy, cuisine, folklore, and dialect. Religion also takes an important place in the lives of Croats. Throughout the year, various festivals and events show the Croats' attachment to their traditions. The Croatian culture is deeply rooted in its infrastructures and monuments, but especially in the minds of its inhabitants.
Symbolism plays a large part in modern day Croatia, with inspiration drawn from folk culture and history, medieval roots, rural traditions, Catholicism, and Viennese high culture. Village customs, national costume, folk dances, music and song have been powerful tools to help preserve the heritage of the land. In the early 20th century, 80% of the population of Croatia was rural, and to a great extent continued to live along traditional patterns. Although traditional culture began to disappear in the late 19th century, affected by modernisation and urbanisation, this process accelerated in the mid-20th century. Many elements of traditional culture continue today in changed forms and new contexts, and have gained new significance, while some have come to denote national, regional or local identity. Traditional music, songs and dances are most often performed at folklore festivals or during various ceremonial events, when the performers usually dress in folk costumes. The country´s long and rich history has left Croatia with cultural and historical monuments from prehistoric times to the present day. With a mesmerizing beauty, the Croatian landscapes are transcendently beautiful, worthy of slow walks and time spent to enjoy them. Forget the bustle, the plans made and the minutes counted. Each place of this absurdly beautiful country invites you to take a deep breath and just enjoy it. And Croatia still hides many regions, destinations, legends, stories, cuisine and other traditional particularities and curiosities like brilliant gems just waiting to be discovered.
When it comes to natural beauty, despite its small size, Croatia hosts a great deal of biodiversity. Discreet, but with a sublime charm, Croatia may well have come out of a fairy tale with its majestic waterfalls, serene lakes and islands that are a true Eden. From Zagreb to Dubrovnik, the mythic woods, mountains and caves are countless, making the Croatian landscape one of the most beautiful in the world. It provides habitats for many large mammals like lynx, wolves, bears and chamois. Its wetlands and rivers are havens for many bird species, while its coast, which is naturally protected by more than 1,000 islands, shelter a reefs and a vast array of fish and dolphins. There are 8 national parks in Croatia, 2 nature reserves and 400 other protected areas that equal 10% of the country. Much of Croatia’s nature and wildlife can be observed in one of the country’s eight national parks, including the Brijuni Islands, the Kornati Islands, Krka, the island of Mljet and, of course, Plitvice Lakes. The parks contain an outstanding variety of geological and natural phenomena, as well as being home to various animal populations.
In this article, we want to highlight thalassotherapy as a form of healing using natural features. Thalassotherapy is a common name for all forms of therapy using the beneficial effects of the sea. This kind of therapy can be practiced everywhere on the Adriatic Sea, particularly on one of the numerous Croatian islands. Apart from being one of the cleanest European seas, the quality control of the Adriatic Sea is very rigorous. The water on the Croatian coastline is tested every two weeks at more than 900 control points. The average grade for the quality of the Adriatic Sea has been consistently above 95% in the past decade. This is because of the relatively high salinity (38%) and less time required for the entire body of water to be changed (5-10 years). The Adriatic Sea contains more than 80 essential minerals and other elements necessary for human health. It has plenty of mineral salts, algae and planktons, therefore its healing properties can be used in several different ways. The water used in thalassotherapy is first heated to 35-37 °C to approximate body temperature. Thalassotherapy involves the inhalation of sea air, a hot seawater bath, seawater hydromassage, algae dressings and wraps. The sea mud contains a natural mixture of clay and minerals that can be used in therapy. Seawater helps alleviate respiratory diseases, arthritis and rheum. It reduces tension and stress, hormonal disturbances and cellulite. It aids quick recovery after an illness and improves the skin tone. It also stimulates the exchange of cellular matter in the organism in order to detoxify the liver, kidneys, skin and ligaments. That is why tourists coming back from a holiday at the seaside feel so good and look so radiant. The effects have been well-studied by scientists. Even though the majority of the Croatian coast is suitable for thalassotherapy, small and isolated islands – such as Susak – are best for those who wish to recover in peace and tranquillity, free from the hectic everyday life.
No healing in Croatia can be complete without Croatian food. The Mediterranean diet, prevalent in the Dalmatia, Kvarner and Istria regions, is among the healthiest in the world, and also protected by UNESCO. To every Croat, the Mediterranean diet invokes the image of a cheerful company gathered around a table set under a treetop. Its meals are local and in tune with the rhythm of nature, such as the scented salsa in the summer or foraged plants seasoned with olive oil and wild orange juice in the winter. It reminds us of the past modesty and utmost respect toward food. It has also been described as the easiest to follow when it comes to weight loss. Every dish has its own story, and the connection with the tradition is nearly as important as the consumption of the food. The Mediterranean diet is abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Lean poultry is given preference over red meat. To top it off, some of its healthiest, abundantly used ingredients include fish and extra-virgin olive oil. They help protect against heart disease, cancer, diabetes and arthritis. The Mediterranean diet is perhaps the most sustainable diet, rich in omega-3 fatty acids. It is also linked to longevity and overall good health. A typical Mediterranean meal involves a freshly caught fish from the Adriatic Sea, grilled on a grate (gradele) above burning coals, with octopus and potato baked under an iron lid (peka), garnished with wild asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini and home-made cheese. Fresh, home-baked flatbread is always at hand. To top it off, there is an old Dalmatian saying that fish has to swim in three liquids – the sea, olive oil and wine. The excellent local wine paired with delicious Mediterranean dishes provides a perfect complement for a well-rounded meal.
By way of conclusion, Croatia is a multifaceted country that combines breath-taking natural beauty, a rich cultural heritage and an environment that promotes a healthy way of living. It is no wonder that its people are resilient and live long lives.
Translated by Hee Young Kim(Embassy of the Republic of Croatia)
* 《Cultura》 2021 June (Vol. 84) *
