Dalmatia

Dalmatia is a historical and geographical region on the eastern Adriatic coast, largely within modern Croatia. It runs along the coast from the northern area around Zadar to the border with Montenegro in the south, and includes numerous islands such as Pag, Brač, Hvar, Korčula, and Mljet. The region features a Mediterranean climate, rugged karst terrain, and the Dinaric Alps rising inland from the coast.

Historically, Dalmatia was settled by Illyrian tribes including the Dalmatae. It became part of the Roman Empire as the province of Dalmatia, later passing under Byzantine and Venetian influence, and eventually under Habsburg rule. In the modern era it was part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and, after World War II, Socialist Yugoslavia, before becoming part of independent Croatia in 1991. The coastal zone also includes areas that are now part of neighboring countries.

Culturally, Dalmatia has a strong maritime heritage reflected in its coastal towns, fortresses, and traditional klapa vocal ensembles. The cuisine emphasizes seafood, olive oil, and wine. The region is associated with the Dalmatian dog breed, and its Croatian dialects show historic Italian influences in many coastal towns.

Economically, tourism dominates the coast and islands, supported by fishing, shipbuilding, and agriculture. Notable cities and sites include Split, home to Diocletian's Palace (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Dubrovnik's Old City (Ragusa; another UNESCO site), as well as Zadar and Šibenik. Protected natural areas include Krka National Park and the Kornati archipelago.