Dalmácie

Dalmatia is a historical and geographic region along the eastern Adriatic coast, largely within modern Croatia. It extends from the area around Zadar in the north to the mouth of the Neretva River in the south, and includes many islands such as Brač, Hvar, Korčula, and Šolta. The name derives from the ancient Illyrian Delmatae.

The coastline is long and indented, with hundreds of islands. Inland terrain includes the Dinaric Alps and karst plateaus. The coast has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The region is known for its scenic towns and diverse coastal landscapes, ranging from rocky shores to sheltered coves.

Dalmatia was inhabited by the Illyrians, later incorporated into the Roman Empire as Dalmatia. It experienced Byzantine influence and the maritime Republic of Ragusa (Dubrovnik), followed by extensive Venetian and Habsburg periods. In the 20th century it became part of Yugoslavia and, since 1991, part of Croatia. The region has historically been a crossroads of Latin, Slavic, and Mediterranean cultures.

Dalmatian culture centers on maritime trade, seafood cuisine, wine, and olive oil. Notable landmarks include Diocletian's Palace in Split and the medieval towns of Dubrovnik, Trogir, and Šibenik. Tourism is the dominant economic activity, complemented by fishing, shipbuilding, and agriculture in the hinterland. The population is predominantly Croat, with historic Italian and other minority communities.

Protected areas include Krka National Park and the Kornati archipelago. The region remains a major tourist destination and a key maritime corridor on the Adriatic.