Dalmatian Hinterland

Dalmatian Hinterland (Zagora) is a geographical and cultural region located in the Dalmatian region of Croatia. It is characterized by its unique landscape, culture, and history, which significantly differ from the coastal Dalmatia.

Geography

The Dalmatian Hinterland is located inland from the Adriatic Sea, stretching from the northern part of the Sibenik-Knin County to the southern part of the Split-Dalmatia County. The region is characterized by its rugged terrain, with numerous mountains, valleys, and rivers. The most significant river in the region is the Cetina River, which has carved out a deep canyon and provides a vital water source for the area.

Culture

The culture of the Dalmatian Hinterland is a blend of various influences, primarily Illyrian, Roman, and Slavic. The region is known for its traditional music, dances, and costumes, which are distinct from those of coastal Dalmatia. The local cuisine is also unique, with dishes such as Arambašići, a type of stuffed cabbage, and Soparnik, a savory pie filled with Swiss chard.

History

The history of the Dalmatian Hinterland is rich and complex. The region was inhabited by the Illyrians before the Roman conquest in the 1st century BC. During the Middle Ages, it was a part of various states, including the Kingdom of Croatia, the Republic of Venice, and the Ottoman Empire. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the region experienced significant changes, with the establishment of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and later the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Today, the Dalmatian Hinterland is a part of the Republic of Croatia.

Economy

The economy of the Dalmatian Hinterland is primarily based on agriculture, with significant production of fruits, vegetables, and livestock. The region is also known for its wine production, particularly the Babić and Plavac Mali grape varieties. In recent years, tourism has become an increasingly important sector, with visitors attracted by the region's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and gastronomy.

See also

• Dalmatia
• Croatia
• Cetina River
• Soparnik
• Babić (grape)