Karlovac

Karlovac is a city in central Croatia and the administrative center of Karlovac County. It lies roughly 50 kilometers southwest of Zagreb and sits at the confluence of four rivers, making it a regional transport and economic hub. The surrounding area features a mix of rivers, forests, and agricultural land.

The city was founded in 1579–1580 by the Habsburgs as a fortified frontier against Ottoman advances and was named after Archduke Karl. Karlovac is renowned for its distinctive urban design: a star-shaped fortification built around a four-armed fortress, with the old town centered near the fortress and the hilltop Dubovac Castle overlooking the city.

Geographically, Karlovac is associated with the rivers Kupa, Korana, Mrežnica, and Dobra, whose confluence helps shape the local landscape and provides opportunities for water-based activities and historical mills. The urban core preserves medieval and Renaissance features alongside later architectural layers.

Economy and culture center on a mix of industry, services, and tourism. The Karlovačko Brewery, one of Croatia’s best-known beer brands, is based in the city, and manufacturing and trade have long played important roles. Education is served by the Karlovac University of Applied Sciences, and the city hosts cultural events, museums, and galleries that reflect its regional heritage. Notable landmarks include Dubovac Castle and the surrounding fortifications that echo the city’s defensive origins.