Rijeka-Capital of culture๐ซถ
Welcome to Rijeka, Croatiaโs bustling seaport and the third-largest city in the country. Nestled on the shores of Kvarner Bay, this vibrant city is a unique blend of rich history, diverse culture, and modern vitality. With a population of over 100,000, Rijeka has long been a strategic hub due to its excellent deep-water port, making it a coveted prize throughout history. The cityโs past is a fascinating tapestry of changing rulers and cultures, reflected in its architecture, language, and traditions.
In 2020, Rijeka proudly held the title of European Capital of Culture, a recognition that highlights its dynamic and creative spirit. This prestigious designation brought the cityโs vibrant cultural scene to the forefront, with numerous events and festivals that celebrated its rich heritage and contemporary arts.
Today, Rijeka continues to be a lively center of shipbuilding, maritime transport, and education, home to the Croatian National Theatre and the historic University of Rijeka. The cityโs unique identity is also shaped by its diverse linguistic heritage, with Croatian, Italian, and the local Fiuman dialect all contributing to its cultural fabric.
Rijekaโs dynamic spirit is on full display during the annual Rijeka Carnival, the largest in Croatia, where the streets come alive with color and celebration. Whether youโre exploring its historic sites, enjoying its cultural events, or simply soaking in the coastal atmosphere, Rijeka offers a captivating experience for every visitor.
MUST SEE PLACES:
1. Trsat Castle
Perched on a 138-meter hill overlooking Rijeka, Trsat Castle is a historic fortress with roots dating back to 1288. Originally a Liburnian lookout in prehistoric times, it later served the Romans as part of their defensive system, the Liburnian Limes, which started at the ancient city of Tarsaticaโnow Rijeka's Old Town.
Today, Trsat Castle offers breathtaking views of Rijeka, including the remnants of the Limes and the entire Old Town. One of the oldest fortifications in the region, the castle now hosts art exhibitions, summer concerts, open-air theater performances, fashion shows, and literary evenings. Visitors can also stop by the Info Point at Partizanski put 9A for more information about the castle and Rijeka.
2. City Center (Korzo) and Riva
Korzo is the heart of Rijeka, where the city truly comes to life. This lively promenade is where locals and visitors meet, shop, and enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes. Walking down Korzo, you'll feel the vibrant energy of Rijeka, with its beautiful buildings, historic fountains, and the famous city clock watching over it all.
Whether it's winter or summer, rain or shine, Korzo is always buzzing with activity. Itโs a place rich in history and tradition, offering unique souvenirs like the โmorฤiฤโ and โtorpedoโ that are symbols of the city.
Korzo is more than just a streetโit's the beating heart of Rijeka, alive with the sounds, sights, and spirit of the city, day and night.
3. City Market
The main city market in Rijeka has been a favorite gathering spot since the late 19th century. Originally located by the coast, it began as a place where fishermen sold their catch directly from baskets. In 1866, a dedicated fish market was built, followed by two additional pavilions in 1880, designed by Izidor Vauchnig.
As the city grew, a new, more hygienic fish market was needed. Completed in 1916 by architect Carlo Pergoli, the market features stunning stone carvings of sea creatures by Urbano Bottasso, bringing the space to life. Today, the market is a vibrant spot where locals and visitors alike come to find the freshest seafood and produce.
4. Capuchin Church of Lady of Lourdes
The Capuchin Church of Our Lady of Lourdes in Rijeka was built between 1904 and 1929, designed by engineers Giovanni Maria Cureta and Cornelio Budinich. Initially planned as a modest Neo-Gothic structure for the Sisters of the Sacred Heart Institute, it was later expanded into a grand church in honor of a miraculous healing of Father Bernardin ล krivaniฤ in Lourdes.
This impressive Neo-Gothic basilica, adorned with colorful Lombard-style polychromy, features stunning stained glass windows, sculptures by Urbano Bottasso and Antonio Marietti, and frescoes by the renowned Rijeka painter Romolo Venucci. Although the planned 75-meter lighthouse was never added, the church has become an unmistakable landmark for travelers.
5. Robert Whitehead Palace
The Robert Whitehead Palace, built in 1888 and known as the "Venetian House," features Venetian Gothic, Renaissance, and Viennese Baroque styles. Designed by architect Giacomo Zammattio, it reflects Whitehead's vision of making Rijeka a cosmopolitan center. Whitehead also funded three other residential buildings on Dolac Street, driven by the cityโs growth. The street ends with significant buildings: a former boys' school (now a high school) and a former girls' school (now the University Library).
6. Rijeka Tunnel
The Rijeka Tunnel, a rare military site open to tourists, offers a glimpse into the cityโs wartime history. Built between 1939 and 1942 by the Italian army, this 330-meter-long tunnel was part of the Alps' defensive line (Vallo Alpino) designed to protect Rijeka from aerial attacks during World War II.
Located beneath the Old Town, the tunnel stretches from near St. Vitus Cathedral to Dolac Primary School. It features two branches, one leading to the former city hall and the other to the cathedral, with original wartime signs still visible. Used during the Allied bombings in 1944-45 and again during the Croatian War of Independence, the tunnel is now a historical attraction, providing a unique insight into Rijekaโs past.
MUSEUMS:
Food and drinks!
Must try: pizza burek (only in Rijeka in Croatia, find in any traditional bakery-pekarna, not industrial ones like Mlinar)
-burek-traditional balkan thing to eat in the morning with yoghurt (with meat, cheese, spinach, potato..)
Here is a list of few good restaurants and cafes:
ONE DAY TRIPS:
Rijeka is an ideal base city for day trips, with several nearby destinations just 1-2 hours away. It's also a great spot for a few days, from where you can easily explore Krk, Rab, or Istria. Stay tuned for upcoming guides on Krk and Istria!
1.Uฤka Nature Park
Perfect for hiking one-day trails!
2. Risnjak National Park
In National park Risnjak (home of european lynx lynx) there are also a lot of hiking trails but the mos beautiful is Kupa Source.
3. Plitvice National Park
Our national treasure, Plitvice Lakes National Park, is truly a gem. This stunning park features a series of lakes and waterfalls formed from travertine, a porous biogenic rock. While it can get crowded and tickets are pricey during peak season, the breathtaking beauty and natural wonder make it well worth the visit.
If you're looking for budget-friendly options within a few hours of Rijeka, consider visiting Zeleni Vir and ฤavolji Prolaz or Kamaฤnik. Both offer easy hiking trailsโ1-2 hours for Zeleni Vir and ฤavolji Prolaz, and about 1.5 hours for Kamaฤnik. Tickets are available on-site and cost around 3-5 euros each.
4. Zeleni vir i Vraลพji prolaz
5. Kamaฤnik
6. Kuterevo Bear Rescue
The Kuterevo Bear Rescue is a great, free attraction where you can see bears up close and make a donation if you wish. Nearby, you can visit Senj and its Fortress Nehaj, as well as enjoy many beautiful beaches in the area.
7. Brseฤ
Brseฤ Beach, made of Eocene foraminifera limestones, is a great spot for relaxing if you have some time. You can see these unique limestone fossils in the pebbles. Note that there are no food or water facilities nearby, so be sure to bring your own supplies.
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