Rijeka

Rijeka is a city and seaport in western Croatia, located on the northern Adriatic coast at the mouth of the Rijeka River on the Kvarner Gulf. It is the administrative center of Primorje-Gorski Kotar County and, with around 130,000 residents, Croatia’s third-largest city by population and a major urban hub.

The city has a long history that stretches back to antiquity. It developed as a significant port within various state entities, and under the Austro-Hungarian Empire it grew as a free port and a key center of maritime trade. In the 20th century it was part of different national entities before joining modern Croatia in 1991. Its strategic position contributed to its enduring role in industry, trade, and transportation.

Rijeka is a major Adriatic port, with facilities for containerized cargo, bulk goods, and passenger traffic. The port supports regional trade and logistics, and the city has historically hosted shipbuilding and repair activities. The local economy also encompasses services, manufacturing, and a growing tourism sector centered on maritime heritage and cultural events.

Culturally, Rijeka features landmarks such as the Trsat Castle, the Korzo promenade, and the Church of Our Lady of Trsat. The Croatian National Theatre Ivan Zajc, several museums, and galleries anchor the arts scene. In 2020 Rijeka was designated the European Capital of Culture, an initiative that highlighted urban renewal and cultural programming. The University of Rijeka is a major educational institution, complementing a diversified urban economy. Transport links include road and rail networks, with Rijeka Airport on the nearby island of Krk serving international and domestic flights.