Croatia

Republic of Croatia(Chor. Republika Hrvatska) is a state in the south of Central Europe and the west of the Balkan Peninsula, a former Soviet republic within Yugoslavia, which became independent in 1991.

Coat of arms of Croatia

The coat of arms of Croatia is a shield on which 25 red and white squares are staggered. On top of the shield is a stylized crown, consisting of five links in the form of the historical coats of arms of Croatia, the Republic of Dubrovnik, Istria, Dalmatia and Slavonia. The coat of arms has been known since the time of the independent Croatian kingdom (XI century).

According to an old legend, the squares of the chess field in the coat of arms of Croatia did not appear by chance. Once the Slavic ruler Svetoslav Surinia (X century) played a game of chess with the Venetian Doge Pietro II. The winner received the right to own the cities of Dalmatia. According to the results of the game, this right went to Svyatoslav, which gave rise to depicting chess on his coat of arms.

Flag of Croatia

The national flag of Croatia is a rectangular panel of three equal horizontal stripes: the top is red, the middle is white and the bottom is blue; with the coat of arms of the Republic of Croatia in the middle. The ratio of the flag's width to its length is 1:2.

For a long time, the folk clothes of the Croats - cloth jackets decorated with braid, lace were of different colors - red, white and blue, and when in 1848 the inauguration of the Croatian Ban - Josip Jelachich took place in his outfit, these three colors were combined.

Considering the enormous contribution of Josip Jelačić to the preservation of national heritage and independence, from that moment, the countdown of the tricolor state symbol begins, which, by combining colors, symbolizes the unification and integrity of the Croatian people.

Political structure

Croatia is a parliamentary republic headed by a president who is elected by popular vote every 5 years.

The president is the supreme commander, forms the government and represents the country at the international level.

The highest legislative body of Croatia is the Parliament (Sabor).

The head of government is the prime minister.

The Sabor consists of the House of Representatives and the House of Commons.

Geographical position

The Republic of Croatia is located in Central Europe, borders in the north - with Slovenia, in the east - with Hungary and Serbia, in the southeast - with Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the south - with Montenegro, from the west the country is washed by the Adriatic Sea.

According to natural and climatic conditions, the country is divided into four regions: Istroy, Kvarner, Gorski Kotar and Lika in the northwest; Dalmatia in the central and southern part of the Adriatic coast, the Northwestern region in the central continental part, as well as Slavonia, Baranya and Srem in the east.

Relief

Most of the territory of Croatia is located at an altitude of more than 500 m above sea level, but there are no mountains above 2100 m. The Adriatic coast is separated from the hinterland by mountain ranges. high peaks: Tsintsar (2085 m), Velika Peak (1890 m), Dinara (1830 m), St. Yure (1762 m), Vaganski (1757 m), Pleshevitsa (1648 m), Risnyak (1528 m), Kula (1534 m), Uchka (1396 m). The eastern and northwestern parts of the country are predominantly low-lying.

The Croatian Adriatic coast is one of the most indented in the world. It has 1185 islands and islets with a total coastline of 4058 km. The length of the coast of the mainland along a conditional straight line is 600 km, and given its indentation - 1778 km. The largest island is Croc (409.9 km2); in the north - the large islands of Cres, Losinj, Pag and Rab, Dugi Otok - in the center, and in the south - Brac, Hvar, Korcula, Mljet. The largest peninsulas are Istria and Pelesač.

Within the framework of a unified Yugoslavia, Croatia ranked second after Slovenia in terms of industrial development and output per capita (this figure was about a third higher than the national average). The republic specialized in mining (oil, coal, bauxite), shipping and tourism.

The formation of the independent Republic of Croatia and the subsequent civil war of 1991-1995 provoked hyperinflation and a sharp decline in the level of economic development. The country's economy before 1996 can be regarded as a wartime economy, when 40% of government spending was directed to defense. Between 1989 and 1994, the economic decline in Croatia reached 46%.

The heavy industry of modern Croatia includes metallurgical and steel-rolling enterprises, machine-building plants, hydroelectric power plants, shipyards, factories for the production of cement and reinforced concrete products.

Leading Industries– chemical, petrochemical, electrical and electronic, food, textile, woodworking, pharmaceutical. The country has breweries, wine and vodka factories, meat-packing plants, enterprises for the production of leather products, sugar, and for the processing of agricultural products.

The northeastern plains of Croatia are the main breadbasket of the country. Grain crops (corn and wheat), sugar beets, soybeans, hemp, flax, sunflowers, potatoes, fodder crops (clover, alfalfa, fodder beet), cattle are grown here. On the slopes of the hills and in the low mountains, they are traditionally engaged in horticulture (mostly plums and apples are grown) and viticulture. The main crops in the mountainous regions are barley and potatoes. Istria and Dalmatia are characterized by viticulture and winemaking, the cultivation of early vegetables and southern fruits, including citrus and olives.

Since the autumn of 1993, the country began to implement an economic stabilization plan. In such sectors of the national economy as tourism, mining, shipbuilding, oil refining, many enterprises were privatized, and by 1995, with the assistance of foreign investors, programs for their reconstruction began to be implemented. However, after the Croatian invasion of Krajina in August 1995, this assistance was curtailed.

Since 1997, the process of denationalization of the country's largest enterprises has accelerated, including railways, the INA oil and gas concern, which was built with the expectation of supplying petroleum products for the whole of Yugoslavia, and the electric power industry.

The total economically active population is estimated at 1.68 million people. Unemployment is growing and remains at a high level: if in 1996 the unemployed were 15.9% of the able-bodied population, then in 1997 - 16.6%, in 1998 - 17.2%, in 1999 - 19.1%, in 2000 - 22% . In this regard, tens of thousands of workers left for the West in search of work.

The annual growth rate of industrial production since 1997 was estimated at 3–5%, but in 2000 it dropped to 1.7%. The inflation rate in 1996 was 3.5% (in 1993 it exceeded 1500%), in 1997 - 4.6%, in 1999 - 4.4%, in 2000 - 6%. At the same time, there has been a steady growth in GDP: in 1997 - 18.92 billion dollars, in 1998 - 20.6 billion, in 2003 - 47.05 billion dollars. At the same time, GDP growth (in 1990 prices) in 1998 amounted to 2.5%, in 2003 - 4.3% (in 1999 there was a decrease in GDP by 0.4% compared to the previous year). GDP per capita in 1992 was $1,800; in 1993, $2,705; in 1994, $2,974; in 1995, $3,487 (62.5% of the 1989 level); reached $10,600. In the structure of GDP, the share of the service sector, 71% (1999), is ahead of the share of industry (19%) and agriculture (10%). The share of the service sector is increasing, in particular due to the revival since 2000 of the tourism business in maritime Croatia.

Croatia is characterized by a developed transport system . So, in 1997 the length railways reached 2.3 thousand km, highways– 27.8 thousand km (23.5 thousand km with hard surface, including 330 km of expressways). Zagreb is connected by highways with Slovenia, Yugoslavia and Hungary. The Adriatic Highway connects all the main cities of coastal Croatia. The channel of the Sava was navigable for almost its entire length, as well as the channel of the border river Danube before the hostilities. To restore navigation on inland waterways, it is necessary to carry out work to clear the beds of these rivers. On the coast Adriatic Sea there are several seaports that provide sea transportation not only to Croatia and the former Yugoslavia, but also to a number of others European countries. The largest ports are Rijeka, in the Gulf of Rijeka, in the north and Ploce, at the mouth of the Neretva, in the south, the smaller ones are Pula, Split, Sibenik, Dubrovnik. The Croatian merchant fleet consists of 53 vessels with a carrying capacity of more than 1,000 gross register tons each, with a total tonnage of 631,853 gross register tons. In 1999, 22 airports operated in the country. An oil pipeline 670 km long, a 20-km oil product pipeline and a gas pipeline 310 km long pass through the territory of Croatia.

Croatia is gradually forming a foreign market. Thus, in 1999, the volume of exports of goods and services amounted to 4.3 billion dollars. Transport equipment, products of the chemical and petrochemical industries, textiles, and food are exported. The main export partners are Italy (18%), Germany (15.7%), Bosnia and Herzegovina (12.8%), Slovenia (10.6%), Austria (6.2%). Imports amounted to 7.8 billion dollars. Croatia imports cars, transport and electrical equipment, fuel and lubricants, food. The main import partners are Germany (18.5%), Italy (15.9%), Russia (8.6%), Slovenia (7.9%), Austria (7.1%).

During the 1990s, external debt increased. In 1997, it was estimated at 31.1% of GDP (in 1996 - 26.6%, in 1995 - 25%), in 1999 it reached 9.3 billion dollars in absolute terms. In 1998, the country's budget revenues amounted to 6 billion. dollars, expenditure - 4.7 billion dollars.

Since 2000, the government has stepped up foreign economic relations and set a goal to increase the investment attractiveness of the main industries. At the same time, it is taking steps to stabilize the financial system and reduce external debt.

The post-Tudzhman government is more focused on joining Western European structures (EU, NATO) and modifies the country's economic development accordingly. In general, despite the significant destruction caused by hostilities (damage is estimated at $ 18.7 billion), Croatia still remains the second (after Slovenia) most economically developed state among former republics SFRY.

The Republic of Serbia has an area of 88.4 thousand square meters. km, population 10,150,265 million people and borders with Macedonia in the south, Bulgaria and Romania in the east, Hungary in the north, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina in the west, with Montenegro and Albania in the southwest. Three regions stand out: Serbia proper, which in 1991 was inhabited by 5.82 million people, and autonomous regions - Vojvodina (2 million) and Kosovo (1.95 million). In 1999, there was a large wave of emigration of Albanians from Kosovo, and in 2000-2001, the emigration of Kosovo Serbs. GDP-4400. EAN-2.961. GDP annually - 5.9%. Unemployment-31.6%.

A griculture: 16.6%
industry: 25.5%
services: 57.9%

Exports-commodities: manufactured goods, food and live animals, machinery and transport equipment

The population is dominated by Serbs (62%) and Albanians (17%). Montenegrins (5%), Hungarians (3%) and a number of national minorities also live in Serbia. Before the outbreak of hostilities in 1999, Serbs made up 85% of the population of Serbia proper, 54% in Vojvodina and 13% in Kosovo; Hungarians and Croats are numerous minorities in Vojvodina. Most Serbs are Orthodox Christians. Muslims are few in Serbia proper and make up the majority in Kosovo.

State structure. After World War II, in accordance with the constitution of 1946, Serbia became one of the six republics in the federal Yugoslav state. The Constitution of the Socialist Republic of Serbia was adopted in 1963.

In September 1990, a new Serbian constitution was adopted, which established a unicameral parliament - the Assembly (250 seats), whose deputies are elected for a four-year term. The head of the Republic of Serbia is the President, elected for a five-year term in general direct elections. The highest body of executive power is the Council of Ministers, headed by the chairman, who is elected by the parliament from among the candidates proposed by the president. The chairman forms the government, which is approved by parliament.

The Republic of Montenegro is part of the Union of Serbia and Montenegro. Its area is 13,812 sq. km. Montenegro is located on the Dinaric Highlands and has access to the Adriatic Sea; borders with Albania in the southeast, Serbia in the northeast and east, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina in the northwest. Three regions are distinguished in Montenegro: fertile lowlands along the coast of the Adriatic Sea, in the basin of Lake Shkoder and adjacent sections of the valleys of the Zeta and Moraca rivers in the southwest; mountainous western region ( Old Montenegro), west of the Zeta river; mountains in the north and east (known as Brda) used for pasture and forestry purposes. The capital of the republic is Podgorica (former Titograd, 1945–1992). Until 1945 the capital was the city of Cetinje.

642.5 thousand people live in Montenegro. The population is dominated by Montenegrins (61.7%), the other most numerous national groups are Bosans (Bosnians-Muslims, or Muslims as an ethnic community, 13%), Serbs (9.3%), Albanians (6.5%). Most Montenegrins and Serbs traditionally belong to the Serbian Orthodox Church, and a significant part of the Bosans and Albanians are Muslims. Small communities of Croats, Serbs and Albanians practice Catholicism.

State device. According to the Yugoslav constitution of 1946, Montenegro became one of the six federal republics. The communist leadership of Montenegro, after 44 years of rule, was removed in January 1989 under the pressure of demonstrations organized by the pro-Serb opposition. As a result, the most important posts in the republic were occupied by new political forces.

October 12, 1992 was adopted by the Constitution of Montenegro, according to which the supreme legislative body is the Assembly, consisting of 77 deputies. The President of Montenegro is elected for a five-year term by direct secret ballot on the basis of universal equal suffrage.

The post of President of Montenegro has been vacant since 2002, as the required number of voters did not come to the presidential elections. And about. President - Filip Vujanovic (Democratic Party of Socialists of Montenegro). The head of the government of Montenegro since 2003 is the leader of the DSHR, Milomir (Milo) Djukanovic.

Economy and social structure. Until the 19th century the main driving forces for the development of society in Montenegro and Brda were blood feuds, guerrilla warfare, disintegration and merging of clans. Until the Berlin Congress of 1878, according to the decisions of which several small settlements, including Podgorica, there were no cities in the country. The state was engaged in laying roads suitable for the passage of horse-drawn carriages; organized postal, telegraph and telephone communications; stood for the protection of the principles of private property; controlled the public education system

Until the end of the 20th century. The main source of livelihood for approximately 80% of the Montenegrin population remained agriculture and cattle breeding. Due to unfavorable natural conditions(mountainous terrain, low soil fertility) and backward agricultural technology in the region produces no more than 2/3 of the food consumed. Montenegro specializes mainly in the cultivation of corn, fishing and cheese making. Tobacco remains the main cash crop, although cotton is also grown in the more fertile valleys. The leading industries are woodworking, shipbuilding, building materials and tobacco processing. In addition, in Montenegro, much attention is paid to the development of tourism, electrification, construction of railways and roads. In connection with the depreciation of the dinar, the government of Montenegro introduced the German mark as a parallel means of payment in 1999, from November 13, 2000, the circulation of the Yugoslav dinar was banned, and the mark remained the only monetary unit of the republic. Since January 1, 2002, the euro has been in circulation.

The introduction of institutional reforms and the creation of a truly functioning common trade policy and a single market in Serbia and Montenegro are an indispensable requirement for stabilization and subsequent accession to the EU. The European Commission has already begun work in this direction and adopted the Plan for the Creation of a Single Internal Market in Serbia7. Thus, Chris Patten, in the Progress Report on Serbia and Montenegro (October 2004), notes that the EU has come to the final stage in the issue of participation of Serbia and Montenegro in the stabilization program. Moreover, the commissioner expressed the readiness of the European Union to cooperate separately with each subject of the state formation of Serbia and Montenegro on the problems of economic development, trade and regional policy8.

Macedonia

Republic of Macedonia- an independent state in Europe, the former federal republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY). It is located on the Balkan Peninsula in southeast Europe. Often referred to simply as Macedonia, but should not be confused with the state of Ancient Macedonia and historical area Macedonia in neighboring Greece. The Republic of Macedonia occupies about 38% of the area of historical Macedonia and has about 44% of its population.

The territory of the Republic of Macedonia previously formed the southernmost part of Yugoslavia. Its modern borders were established shortly after World War II, when Socialist Republic of Macedonia- thus, the Macedonians were recognized as an independent people within Yugoslavia. In 1991, with the disintegration of Yugoslavia into separate states, the territory of Macedonia has not changed. At the same time, the emergence of this separate state led to endless political disputes with Greece over the use of the names "Macedonia" and "Macedonians" - so for a long time in official documents this state was called the "Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia."

· 1991 - declaration of sovereignty and referendum on the independence of Macedonia. The first President of Macedonia - Kiro Gligorov (1991-1999).

· 1992 - the withdrawal of parts of the Yugoslav army.

· 1993 - introduction of "blue helmets" (the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia) by the UN.

· 1995 - after the assassination attempt on Kiro Gligorov, Stoyan Andov was acting head of state for a short period.

As a result of the war in Kosovo in 1999 some 360,000 Kosovo Albanians fled to Macedonian territory. The refugees soon left the country, but a little later, the local Albanians, following their example, put forward a demand for autonomy for the regions of the republic with a predominantly Albanian population.

· 1999-2004 - President Boris Traikovsky.

· 2001 March - August - Albanian uprising that engulfed the north and west of the country (especially the Tetovo region). The Albanian National Liberation Army (leader Ali Ahmeti) began military guerrilla operations against the regular army of Macedonia. The confrontation was only ended by NATO intervention, as a result of which the Albanians were granted limited legal and cultural autonomy (the official status of the Albanian language, the amnesty of the rebels, the Albanian police in the Albanian regions).

· 2002 - sporadic relapses of the Albanian-Macedonian inter-ethnic conflict.

Official name	Republic of Macedonia
State flag
Coat of arms
Capital
Official language	Macedonian
Political structure	Parliamentary republic
The president	Branko Crvenkovski
Currency	Macedonian denar
Neighbours	Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, Albania,
Climate
Territory
Location	Southeast Europe, north of Greece
Square : general land water
Coastline
Neighbours	It borders Serbia in the north, Bulgaria in the east, Greece in the southeast, and Albania in the west.
Climate	Warm; summer and autumn are dry; relatively cold winter with heavy snowfalls
Natural resources	copper, gold, copper, nickel, lead, manganese, asbestos, iron ore, zinc, chromite, wood, tungsten, gypsum
land use arable land cultivated land	22.01% 1.79% 76.2% (2005)
natural hazards	high seismic hazard
Population
Age structure: 0-14 15-64 over 65
Average age general male female	(forecast for 2007)
population growth
Lifespan(forecast 2007): general male female	74.21 years old 71.73 years old 76.88 years old
ethnic groups	Macedonians 64.2%, Albanians 25.2%, Turks 3.9%, Greeks 2.7%, Serbs 1.8% (as of 2002)
Literacy Rate
GDP (purchasing power parity)	$221.4 billion
Share of GDP per Agriculture industry service sector	9% 29% 62% (2006)
Working population
Share of working population in Agriculture industry service sector
Unemployment rate
Population below the poverty line
Main agricultural products	tobacco, wine, grapes, vegetables, milk, eggs
Industrial goods	food and beverages, chemicals, iron, steel, cement, energy, pharmaceuticals, textiles.
Exported goods	foodstuffs, beverages, tobacco, textile products, iron and steel, various manufactured goods.
Export - partners	Serbia and Montenegro 22.5%, Germany 17.8%, Greece 15.3%, Italy 8.3% (2005)
Imported goods	machinery and equipment, automobiles, chemicals, fuels, food
Import - partners	Russia 13.25, Germany 10.4%, Greece 9.2%, Serbia and Montenegro 8.2%, Bulgaria 7.3%, Italy 6% (2005)

Croatia

Coat of arms of Croatia

Flag of Croatia

Political structure

Croatia is a parliamentary republic headed by a president who is elected by popular vote every 5 years.

The president is the supreme commander, forms the government and represents the country at the international level.

The highest legislative body of Croatia is the Parliament (Sabor).

The head of government is the prime minister.

The Sabor consists of the House of Representatives and the House of Commons.

Geographical position

Most of the territory of Croatia is located at an altitude of more than 500 m above sea level, but there are no mountains above 2100 m. The Adriatic coast is separated from the hinterland by mountain ranges. The highest peaks: Tsintsar (2085 m), Velika peak (1890 m), Dinara (1830 m), St. Jure (1762 m), Vaganski (1757 m), Pleshevitsa (1648 m ), Risnyak (1528 m), Kula (1534 m), Uchka (1396 m). The eastern and northwestern parts of the country are predominantly low-lying.

The Danube (188 km) and its tributaries the Sava (562 km) and Drava (505 km) flow deep into the country and empty into the Black Sea. The few rivers that carry their waters to the Adriatic Sea through narrow gorges have strong elevation changes along their entire length, forming a large number of waterfalls. The longest of them - Mirna and Rasa flow in Istria, and Zrmania, Krka, Neretva and Cetina - in Dalmatia.

The largest lake in Croatia - Vransko (30.7 km2) is located near Biograd. The most attractive are the Plitvice Lakes (a chain of 16 lakes with the Korana River), the Red and Blue Lakes near Imotska (karst origin), the freshwater Vranskoe Lake on the island of Cres and the lakes Vizovacsko and Prokljansko (along the Krka River near Sibenik). Well-known artificial lakes are Lokve and Bayer in Gorski Kotar, Trakoshcan in the Croatian Zagorje and Perutsa on the Cetina River in Dalmatia. Lake Kopachevo and the wetlands around it are bird habitat in Europe's largest ornithological reserve - Kopachki Rit.

Adriatic Sea

It washes the Balkan and Apennine peninsulas, its average depth is -252 m, the northwestern part is shallow (maximum 23 m in the Gulf of Trieste), while in the south its depth reaches 1200 m. The waters of the Adriatic near the Croatian coast are clean and transparent, i.e. To. mountain rivers do not carry silt and sand into it. In August, the water warms up to 25 - 27 °

C. In addition, according to its characteristics, it meets all the strictest standards of the World Health Organization (WHO). Salt content is 34mg/l. This means that it is twice as salty as Black.

Croatia has the highest clear weather in Europe with 270 - 300 sunny days a year. pine forests adjoin here with tropical plants, and the transparency of the water reaches 50 meters.

The Adriatic coast has a Mediterranean climate with hot and very dry summers and warm and humid winters. The climatic features of this region are determined primarily by the influence of the sea, which softens all seasonal temperature fluctuations. average temperature January from +5°С to +10°С, August - from +23°С to +32°С. The water temperature in summer is +25°С, +27°С. IN mountainous areas cool summers and cold winters with lots of snow.

On the territory of Croatia, one of the smallest countries in Europe, about 4,300 plant species grow. The world of marine flora and fauna is rich, among which there are endemic species, i.e. found only in this area.

Capital

croatia zagreb economy tradition

One of the youngest capitals in Europe - Zagreb, located on the Sava, a tributary of the Danube, has a thousand-year history. Almost 1/5 of the entire population of Croatia lives in Zagreb, bounded from the north by the Medvednica mountain range, and its suburbs.

Once on the site of Zagreb there was a Roman settlement Andautonia. Then the Croats came to this land. According to legend, the Croatian warriors walked for a long time, exhausted by thirst, until their leader stopped and stuck his sword into the ground, from where water rose like a fountain. He shouted to the delighted soldiers: “We are raking in water!” Because of this phrase, the name Zagreb appeared. According to another version, the name "Zagreb" comes from the Croatian "beyond the shore" - behind the hill.

At first, Zagreb consisted of two independent settlements, which were called Kaptol and Hradec. Now both Kaptol and Hradec are the central historical districts of the city and represent a unique ensemble of Gothic architecture.

On St. Mark's Square in Hradec, there is a 14th-century church with a roof decorated with the Croatian coat of arms. Once Hradec was surrounded by a wall and gates, only the Stone Gates have survived to this day. From the observation point of Hradec, a magnificent panorama of Zagreb opens up.

In Kaptol is the symbol of the city - a huge Cathedral Neo-Gothic Zagreb, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The cathedral is considered the most tall building in Zagreb.

From Zagreb it is easy to get to anywhere in Croatia. The A1 expressway connects the capital with the resort cities on the coast of Split and Dubrovnik, and the A6 highway connects with the nearest seaport - Rijeka. Train Station and the main bus station are located in the very center of Zagreb.

Museum lovers will appreciate the capitals of Croatia, because there are a lot of museums in Zagreb for every taste.

Croatian transport system

Public transport

The most common type public transport in Croatia is the bus. In addition to buses in large cities (eg Zagreb, Split, Rijeka, Osijek, Pula, etc.) there is also a network of tram lines (Zagreb and Osijek trams). Tickets are sold, as a rule, in the passenger compartment of the bus or tram or at newsstands.

Buses

International bus service in Croatia is quite developed. Bus routes run to Croatia from many European countries.

Almost all parts of the country are covered by a network of bus passenger transport. Almost every town has a bus station (Autobusni Kolodvor) where you can buy tickets and check the schedule.

Water transport

Between the cities of Croatia, located on the Adriatic coast, various ferries, ships, hydrofoils run. Most of the inhabited islands can also be reached by water transport. There are also international flights. From May 28 to September 30, the summer schedule operates with more frequent departures.

Airports

Croatia has 6 international airports and 3 civil airports for domestic and charter flights

International airports:

§ Zagreb Airport (17 km from the center of Zagreb),

§ Split airport (24 km from the center of Split),

§ Dubrovnik Airport (18 km from the city),

§ Pula Airport (6 km from the center of Pula),

§ Zadar Airport,

§ Rijeka airport.

Airports for local and charter flights:

§ Bol airport

§ Lošinj Airport

§ Osijek Airport

Taxis can also be classified as “transport in Croatia”. The taxi fare is $2.4, plus $0.96 per kilometer. Trips that take place on holidays and weekends usually cost 20% more.

In general, there are no problems with transport in Croatia. There is almost always an alternative to using another mode of transport, especially when it comes to well-known resort centers. If you are an ardent fan active rest you can rent a bike.

Economy

The leading industries are: shipbuilding, mechanical engineering, chemical, food, textile, woodworking, electrical and electronic, pharmaceutical industries. important industry economy is tourism.

Advantages: stable economic growth. Under the auspices of the IMF, a program has been launched to reduce government spending. Tourism growth.

Weaknesses: privatization dragging on since 2001 and union resistance. The damage from the war is about 50 billion dollars. High unemployment (17.7% as of January 2010).

Population

The population of Croatia has approximately 4800 thousand inhabitants.

Of these, 78% are Croats, 12% - Serbs, 0.9% - Bosnians, 0.5% - Hungarians, 0.5% - Slovenes, Italians, Albanians, Czechs, Slovaks, Gypsies, Jews also live.

Religion: 87.8% - Catholics, 4.42% - Orthodox, 1.2% - Muslims, 0.19% - Protestants.

The official language is Croatian.

Languages are also widespread: German, Italian, English among young people, the older generation remembers Russian.

Latin alphabet.

Traditions

Croatia is a country with rich national traditions. The seven values of this country, which include customs, traditions and folk crafts, are included in the list cultural heritage UNESCO. The following traditions have been included:

Carnival of "zvoncharov", which takes place every year in the city of Kastav;

Church procession called "Behind the Cross". Takes place before Easter on the island of Hvar. On this day, the inhabitants of six villages of the island undergo a religious procession, 25 kilometers long. They are led by a barefoot man carrying a cross. The procession passes without rest.

Lace from the islands of Hvar and Pag, from Lepograva. Unesco considers these to be the three traditions of lace weaving;

Wooden children's toys, which have become a folk craft in Zagorje;

Spring procession passing in Goryan;

In this country there is a traditional evening - "korzo". This word means an evening walk along the embankment or in the city center, when everyone is looking at each other with interest. In this case, only one goal is pursued - people show themselves and look at others. Close attention is not considered indecent here. This tradition is pleasant because anyone can join it.

Also no less common is the tradition, which is the love of strong coffee and sweets. Usually Croats gather in a small cafe with friends, eat sweets and coffee, leading a leisurely confidential conversation.

In Croatia, it is customary to go to church on Sundays.

After the wedding ceremony in Croatia, it is customary for married relatives of the bride to remove the veil from the bride, and instead put on an apron and a headscarf. This can be said to be a symbol of her married position. After that, all those gathered go around the well three times and throw apples into it.

The national culture in this country is unique and deep. It has the imprint of long periods of foreign rule and a unique geographical position. Although Croatia was dependent on foreign powers for a long time, it still managed to maintain its individuality and originality. In addition, it has blossomed and risen to new heights.

Croatian cuisine

Croatian cuisine goes back to Central European and Mediterranean cooking traditions. In the center of the country, Slavic and Central European culinary influences predominate, where the main thing is simplicity, in the coastal regions there is a very large Italian influence with various delights, and Austrian and Hungarian culinary specialists also had a great influence on the cuisine of the north-east of the country.

The central regions of Croatia are famous for simple but nutritious dishes: sambor steak, potatoes stewed with sweet fragrant wine, sausages.

The coastal regions of Croatia are known for seafood, fish, and shellfish dishes. Almost all along the coast you will be offered fresh grilled sea fish, fried and baked clams, shrimp, lobsters, boiled shells, stewed and fried mussels and fresh oysters.

The mountainous regions of Croatia are famous for lamb dishes and abundant vegetable side dishes of beans and potatoes. You should definitely try the roasted lamb. You will be amazed by the many types of sheep's cheeses and of course the national delicacy of Croatia - prosciutto. This is a pork ham, smoked and dried, it is served with sheep's cheese or olives.

Attractions

Croatia in the last decade has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. This country has an unparalleled amount of historical sights spanning a significant period in the history of European civilization - from civilizations Ancient Greece and Rome to the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Yugoslavia. Also on the territory of Croatia you can find some of the most beautiful and unique national parks in Europe, such as Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Park. Every year, Croatia is visited by several hundred thousand tourists who, in addition to enjoying historical and natural attractions, spend time on the Adriatic coast, where some of the most beautiful beaches our subcontinent.

The famous Croatian national park Kornati is located in one of the most picturesque regions of Croatia - Dalmatia, on a small archipelago of the islands of the same name.

This national park is known not only for its natural diversity, but also for its extensive network of water labyrinths - straits.

Vela Spila Cave is located near the town of Vela Luka on the Croatian island of Korcula. The name of the cave is translated from Croatian as "big cave". Numerous artifacts have been found in the cave that date back to the Mesolithic and Neolithic (7380-7080 BC). Other finds date back to the period 13500 - 12600. BC, and some of the finds were dated using the method of radiocarbon analysis, and some of the finds are over 20,000 years old.

Plitvice Lakes in the eponymous national park Croatia are located in the mountainous region of Lika.

This national park lies on the Plitvice Plateau, which is surrounded on three sides by the mountains of the Dinaric Alps. The most famous mountains of this chain in this region are Plzesevica (1640 m.), Mala Kapela (1280 m.) and Medvedak (884 m.). national park covers an area with karst rocks, dolomites and limestones that contain lakes and caves. The water in the lakes is known for its unique color scheme - it changes from azure to green, from gray to sky blue. The color of the water in lakes depends on the minerals and bacteria in the water and how intense sunlight penetrates the surface of the lake.

The Blue Cave or Blue Grotto is a water-filled sea cave in a small bay called Balun, on the eastern side of the island of Biševo near the Croatian Adriatic coast. The cave is located in the central part of the Dalmatian archipelago.

This grotto is one of the most popular tourist attractions in this region of Croatia.

The lower city of Zagreb is often referred to as the cultural and business center of the Croatian capital. Most of the hotel complexes in Zagreb are located in the Lower Town.

Unlike Upper city, the streets of this part of the city are wider, with a large number of parks, squares and alleys. The main shopping streets are also located here, in particular, the most famous street for shopping in Zagreb is Ilica Street. In the same area is Marshal Titus Square, where the National Theater of Croatia is located.

Cathedral of St. Lovro XIII - XVI century is the most famous architectural structure Trogir. It was built in the Romanesque style.

The cathedral is one of the monuments of world culture. Based on research, the cathedral was built on the foundations of an ancient basilica, which was destroyed during the invasion of the Saracens in 1123.

Visa and customs control

Visa questions: There is a visa regime between the RF and RH.

However, for a tourist trip, it is enough to present a tourist voucher, for an individual (private) trip - the original invitation from relatives or friends, certified by a notary.

For a business trip to Croatia, you must have an invitation (a fax copy is enough) from a Croatian partner, certified by the seal and signature of the person in charge.

In all cases, a valid passport must be presented at the border.

Children must have their own passport or be inscribed in the passport of one of the parents.

Length of stay Russian citizens in the country without a visa is limited to 3 months. Russian citizens whose stay in Croatia may exceed 90 days must apply for an entry visa at the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Moscow before entering the country.

Customs control:

The customs regulations of the Republic of Croatia are harmonized with EU standards.

Alcohol and cigarettes. You can bring into the country: 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 250 g of tobacco, 1 liter of strong alcoholic beverages, 2 liters of wine (goods exceeding the specified quota are confiscated).

Jewelry and jewelry. The import of jewelry and jewelry is allowed within the limits of personal needs.

If they are intended for gifts, then it is necessary to present a sales receipt with the price and pay a duty in the amount of 30% of the value of the goods.

Artistic and cultural-historical values. Without special permission, it is forbidden to import items of artistic or collection value.

Weapons and ammunition. The import of firearms and ammunition must be declared.

Currency. Foreign currency and checks when entering and leaving the country can be in any quantity.

Other. You can bring into the country 1 kg of coffee or tea, 50 ml of perfume or toilet water intended for personal use. Goods, the quantity of which exceeds the specified quota, are withdrawn.

Items prohibited for import/export:

Prohibited for import:

Explosives;

antique items;

drugs;

Items that damage the ozone layer.

Russian institutions

Embassy Address:

Republic of Croatia, 10000 Zagreb, st. Bosanska, 44

Fax: (385 1) 3755-040

Opening hours: Monday-Thursday 8.00 - 17.30 (lunch break from 13.00 to 14.00); Friday 8.00 - 14.00.

The embassy is closed on weekends and holidays Russian Federation

Embassy press officer

PAVLOV Boris Nikolaevich

Phone: (385 1) 3755-038, 3755-039

Fax: (385 1) 3755-040

Email: [email protected]

Consular Section of the Embassy

Head of Department - IVANKOV Andrey Borisovich

Phone: (385 1) 3755-904

Fax: (385 1) 370-59-82

Email: [email protected]

Opening hours: visitors are accepted on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9.00 to 12.00 (Central European time).

Embassy Counselor for Economic Affairs

MIRZOYAN Georgy Surenovich

Phone: (385 1) 3755-038, 3755-039

Fax: (385 1) 3755-040

Email: [email protected]

Aeroflot - Russian Airlines office

st. Zrinevac, 6

Phone: (385 1) 4872-055, 4872-076

Fax: (385 1) 4872-051

Office at Pleso airport

Phone: (385 1) 4562-288, 4562-258

Representative of the Russian Center for International Scientific and Cultural Cooperation

Vinogradi 82

Tel: (385 1) 3702-683

Accommodation facilities

Croatia offers its guests a variety of different and multi-level hotels. From family mini hotels and hotels with apartments instead of rooms, the so-called apart-hotels, to upscale five star hotels.

Hotels are scattered all over the Adriatic coast of Croatia, some hotels are located right on the seashore, others are closer to the mountains, many hotels are also in the continental part of Croatia: Zagreb, Zagorje. Cheap apartments and rooms without commission thanks to direct contact with the apartment owners. You independently decide the issues of payment and accommodation with the owner of the property. You can rent an apartment in Croatia no agency fees

Useful phones:

Police - 92.

Fire department - 93.

Ambulance - 94.

Roadside assistance - 987.

The international dialing code for Croatia is 385.

City inquiry service - 988.

General inquiry service for the country - 989.

International Inquiry Service - 902.

List of used literature

1. http://www.croatia.mid.ru - site of the embassy of the Russian Federation in Croatia

2. http://www.kdmid.ru - consular information portal

3. http://ru.wikipedia.org - free informational encyclopedia

4. http://euguide.ru/ - a magazine about holidays in Europe

5. http://www.adriariva.com

6. http://www.croatia.awd-bt.com - online guide to Croatia

7. http://etnolog.ru - encyclopedia of the peoples of the world

8. http://www.tribuna.ru - publishing house

9. http://journeying.ru - online magazine about tourism and travel

10. http://croatia.ru - official website of Croatia in Russia

Geographical position of Croatia

Croatia is located in south-central Europe common boundaries with Bosnia and Herzegovina 932 kilometers, with Slovenia 670 kilometers, with Hungary 329 kilometers, with Serbia 241 kilometers and Montenegro 25 kilometers. The coast of the Adriatic Sea stretches for 1777 kilometers, and the entire length of the coastline, together with the islands, is 4058 kilometers. Geographical coordinates Croatia 45°8′30″ N 16°13′45″ E

extreme geographical points territory of Croatia: eastern 45°12′ N. sh. 19°27′ in. (G) (O), western 45°29′ N. sh. 13°30′ in. (G) (O), southern 42°23′ n. sh. 16°21′ in. (G) (O), northern 46°33′ N sh. 16°22′ in. d. (G) (O).

In the southeast, Croatia interrupts its coastline with the exit of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the Adriatic coast with the city of Neum.

Geography of Croatia

The territory of the country is 56,594 square kilometers, which is the 127th result in the world. Geographically, Croatia can be divided into the Adriatic coast, the Dinaric Highlands and the Middle Danube Plain, 53.54% of Croatia's territory is valleys below 200 meters above sea level, most of them are located in the north in the Middle Danube Lowland. The highest points of Croatia are located on the territory of the Dinaric Highlands, which is located southeast of the Alps from the mountains of Cicaria and Učka in the west in Istria and to the mountains of Žumberak in the northeast. Mount Dinara is the highest mountain in Croatia and has a height of 1831 meters, in addition, the mountains Snezhnik, Svilaja, Risnjak, Kapela, Velika, Pleshivitsa, Velebit and Biokovo have a height of over one and a half kilometers. Speleologists will be interested in the bonfire massif of the Dinaric Highlands with countless caves, fifty of which are over 250 meters long, and three caves are over one kilometer long, including Kita-Gacheshina Cave, 20 kilometers long.

The Middle Danube lowland stretches from the north of Croatia to the territory of Hungary, highest points are mountain ranges Medvednica 1035 meters and Ivanshchitsa 1059 meters in the north of the country's capital.

The Adriatic coast is the most tasty morsel for tourists, in addition, the large islands of Krk, Korcula and Cres are of interest, the high island of Brac, 780 meters high, is picturesque. Most of the coasts of Croatia are indented with castor relief, traces of volcanoes can be found on the islands of Brusnik, Jabuka, Vis and in the vicinity of the city of Komiža.

62% of the territory of Croatia belongs to the Black Sea basin. Major rivers the countries of Kupa 296 kilometers, Mura, Drava 505 kilometers, Sava 562 kilometers, Danube 188 kilometers, the Neretva River 20 kilometers and Cetina 101 kilometers belong to the Adriatic Sea basin.

The largest lake in Croatia, Vranskoe, with an area of 30.7 square kilometers, is located in northern Dalmatia, on the Drava River, there is the Dubravskoe Reservoir, on the Cetina River, Peruchanskoe. However, tourists are interested in small but picturesque Plitvice Lakes, which are connected by waterfalls, but separated by natural dams, you can swim near the waterfalls, all lakes have their own unique color.

Nature of Croatia

In terms of biodiversity, Croatia is the richest country in Europe, forests occupy 47% of the country's territory, there are 444 protected areas in Croatia natural areas, which is 8.5% of the total area. Including 8 national parks, 11 natural parks and 2 nature reserves, the most popular natural Park- these are the Plitvice Lakes, which are also an object world heritage UNESCO, tourists are also interested in the natural park Velebit.

Half of Croatia lives on only 26.8% of the country's territory, for example, in Zagreb, which occupies 6.6% of the territory, more than a quarter of the total population of Croatia lives.

Earthquakes in Croatia are a frequent occurrence, especially on the resort Adriatic coast, foreign tourists should know this so as not to be scared in vain, once a decade quite strong earthquakes are observed in Croatia.

Croatia is a general characteristic of the country. Economic and geographical features and interesting facts of Croatia Population below the poverty line

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