9 Facts about Croatia that will impress your friends

Croatia is probably most well known for Dubrovnik, but let me tell you, there’s much more to Croatia than the Game of Thrones filming location. Here are some lesser known, but fascinating tidbits about this cool country.

2. The Croatian coastal city of Zadar is home to the world’s one and only sea organ (morske orgulje). You can listen to the waves in a way you never thought possible. By drilling holes into the stone at different lengths and sizes, architect Nikola Bašić was able to orchestrate a symphony of waves, just with the rolling tide.

3. The Island Hvar claims to be the sunniest place in Europe with an average of 2,715 hours of sunlight per year. ♫ Grey skies are gonna clear up…[head to Hvar and] put on a happy face ♫

4. The Adriatic Sea is one of the cleanest and purest waters in Europe.

5. Croatia has over 1200 islands. It's hard to believe that this little country has so many, but it's true. They vary greatly in size, from small rocks in the sea to large populated islands (only 60 of which are inhabited) - so swim to one, sail to one, or paddle to one. The Adriatic is crystal clear as it is, but the clarity and the hues of the sea are especially exaggerated out around the islands.

6. Marco Polo was born on Korcula Island in Korcula Town - the house where he was supposedly born still stands and is now a museum. “Maaaarrrcccooo…” you get it.

7. The world’s largest truffle was found in Istria, a northwest region of Croatia, and it weighed 1.31kg.

8. Croats invented the tie! In the 17th century, Croatian soldiers went to war alongside the French and brought this fancy new neckwear along. It turned out to be all the rage and spread across the continent - and eventually the world. Croatians have been trendy from the get-go!

9. Croatia is home to the world’s smallest town, Hum, with a population of just 21 as of 2011. Hum - ♫ Where everybody knows your name ♫ ...or at least I hope they do if there are only 20 other people in town.

So come on, travel Croatia and see some of things on the list for yourself. While you’re at it, discover more secrets of this hidden gem of a country and report back :) I’ll add to the list.

Happy Travels,

Sarah

---