Rijeka – Sailors’ haven

Rijeka, the pearl of north-western Croatia, picturesquely situated on the Bay of Rijeka on the Adriatic Sea, is a place with an extremely rich history and a modern face. It is here, in the heart of the Primorsko-Góra County, that not only the capital of the region is located, but also an industrial, cultural and tourist center. In this article, we will focus on Rijeka – a city that won the title of European Capital of Culture in 2020.

History of Rijeka: From the Middle Ages to the Present

Rijeka permeates us with its history, which dates back to the Middle Ages. It was then that the city, thanks to its convenient location, developed on trade, and its powerful walls protected it against invaders. Initially, it belonged to Croatia, then came under Hungarian rule, and in the 15th century came under the rule of the Habsburgs. In 1723, it was declared a „free port”, which initiated its development as an important trade center.

In the 19th century, Rijeka becomes an administrative unit under the jurisdiction of Budapest, being part of the dualist Austria-Hungary. After World War I, the city was an arena of disputes between Italy and the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes. In 1919, Italian adventurer Gabriele d’Annunzio took over the city, creating the Regency of Carnaro. However, in 1924, most of Rijeka’s territory was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy.

After World War II, in 1947, Rijeka joined Yugoslavia, which further influenced its development and identity.

Rijeka Today: Industrial and Cultural Center

Modern Rijeka is not only a city with a fascinating history, but also a dynamic industrial and cultural center. It is the largest Croatian commercial, industrial, fishing and transit port. The shipbuilding, machinery, chemical, paper, construction, textile and food industries create a solid economic base for the region.

The scientific center is represented by numerous universities, including the University of Rijeka, and scientific and research institutes. Rijeka is also home to many tourist centers and museums that attract visitors from all over the world.

Monuments of Rijeka: Combining History with Modernity

The city tempts not only with its rich history, but also with the beauty of its architecture. The medieval church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Augustinian monastery with the baroque church of St. Jerome, the town hall from the 15th and 19th centuries, the cathedral of St. Vitus from the 17th and 18th centuries, the church of St. Nicholas from the 18th century and the city tower from the 15th and 18th centuries are just some of the numerous monuments waiting to be discovered.

To sum up, Rijeka is a city that combines rich history, dynamic economic development and cultural diversity. For history enthusiasts, sailing enthusiasts and enthusiasts of modern life, Rijeka becomes an unforgettable experience. It’s time to set off on an adventure on the shores of the Bay of Rijeka and discover the charms of this extraordinary city on the Adriatic Sea.

Artykuł przygotowany przez Lugia Boats – Twojego partnera w niezapomnianych podróżach morskich.Article prepared by Lugia Boats – your partner in unforgettable sea journeys.