Rijeka , a port city located at the crossroads of the Mediterranean and Central Europe, is an ideal city break destination for lovers of culture , history and gastronomy. With its rich past and multicultural heritage, Rijeka exudes a special charm that will delight every visitor.
Rijeka's history is intertwined through centuries of various reigns – from the Habsburg Monarchy to Italy and Yugoslavia – which have left their mark on the architecture, language and customs. Trsat Castle, a medieval fortress on a hill above the city, bears witness to ancient times and offers an unforgettable view of the Kvarner Bay. A walk along the Korzo reveals Art Nouveau buildings and the lively atmosphere of the city, while industrial heritage and modern museums such as the Rijeka City Museum and the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art reflect the city's innovation. A special place on the cultural scene is occupied by the Benčić Art Quarter, a creative center of the city where art, literature and social events meet.
Rijeka's calendar of events is packed all year round, so guests, no matter what time of year they come, will find many interesting and attractive musical, dramatic and artistic performances, as well as urban clubs for young people that offer entertainment tailored to their needs.
If we have to highlight just one of the many annual events, it is certainly the international Rijeka Carnival , which the Sunday Times has ranked among the top of the most attractive events in the world. A competition in imagination, wit and originality, a fireworks display of colours and shapes, results in a parade of hundreds of allegorical floats, thousands of masks and an immeasurable number of spectators from home and abroad.
The International Carnival Parade is the crowning glory of the carnival festivities, a celebration of traditional and urban carnival groups, which act as citizen associations and use their masks to reflect on current social events. Nowhere else in the world will you experience such a unique blend of European civic carnival based on historical and cultural customs with elements of folklore and mythology.
Rijeka Carnival is difficult to describe or fully convey with photographs or television broadcasts. Rijeka Carnival needs to be experienced and lived!