Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

A lot of people will tell you that the Dalmatian Coast is definitely one of the most beautiful places for you to visit when in Europe. This is a strip of coast that is said to be dotted with a number of islands, and it is situated on the western side of Croatia, which gets bordered by the lovely waves of the Adriatic Sea. The coastline here is best known for its lush islands that are beautifully forested with sparkling water and towns that are replete with fairy tale architecture. The diverse cultural influences of the region are evident the moment you set foot on any island on the Dalmatian Coast.

The largest city in the north of this coast is Split, and the southern city which tops the list according to size has to be Dubrovnik. Other important cities of the region would have to include Sibenik, Zadar, and Dubrov; while the islands that are of importance include names like Hvar, Mljet, Dugi Otok, Korcula and Brac.

The beauty and the uniqueness of geography of the region has for long made it one of the most disputed regions of the Croatian zone. The name of the coastal strip is derived from the term Dalmatae which was the name of an Illyrian tribe that was said to have inhabited the region somewhere in the first millennium (BCE). Somewhere around the time of 220 BCE, the Romans began gaining power over this particular region. By the time of Christ, this entire region had undergone Romanization.

Once the fall of Rome took place, the region was taken over by Goths, Avars, Slavs, Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman Empire. Given the fact that this region changed hands among so many rulers, the wars and the rebellions that took place here were inevitable. There came a point in time when the entire kingdom began to be described as a fractured one, having so many principalities and numerous states.

In the modern date and age, the region is controlled by the French, Serbians, Hungarians and the Austrians. Until the time of the World War I, the region continued to bask in its fractured realm. It was only as recently as 1991 that the region became known as Croatia, and the folks of Dalmatian Coast got an identity of their own.

Finally, the beautiful coastal strip has gotten the respect it is due. The Dalmatian Coast has gained immense popularity as a tourist destination. One reason for this immense popularity is its location. The fact that the islands are remote, yet easily accessible now; this coupled with the beautiful towns have much to offer for the visitors who embark here. In addition to all the man-made attractions, the National Parks of the region add to the beauty and enhance the experience of visiting these parts of Croatia.