An expert guide to the present-day cultural life of Croatia and how it has been influenced by the nation's tumultuous past. Culture and Customs of Croatia offers an expert insider's look at a Balkan nation which, for the first time since the 12th century, is free to draw on its own traditions to determine its political, philosophical, and cultural identity. Culture and Customs of Croatia provides a comprehensive overview of Croatian art and culture with an emphasis on the historical factors contributing to contemporary Croatian life. An in-depth exploration of the country's past lays the groundwork for a discussion of a number of current issues, including progress towards EU membership, the expanding role of the Catholic Church, preservation of the country's World Heritage Sites, the growing popularity of the nation's Adriatic coastline as a beach vacation destination, and the complex, still reverberating legacy of the former Yugoslavia.
This book analyzes top-down and bottom-up strategies of framing the nation and collective identities through commemorative practices relating to events from the Second World War and the 1990s "Homeland War" in Croatia. With attention to media representations of commemorative events and opinion poll data, it draws on interviews and participant observation at commemorative events to focus on the speeches of political elites, together with the speeches of opposition politicians and other social actors (such as the Catholic Church, anti-fascist organizations and war veterans’ and victims’ organizations) who challenge official narratives. Offering innovative approaches to researching and analyzing commemorative practices in post-conflict societies, this examination of a nation’s transition from a Yugoslav republic to an independent state – and now the newest member of the European Union – constitutes a unique case study for scholars of cultural memory and identity politics interested in the production and representation of national identities in official narratives.
This volume is the first scholarly study in the English language of Croatia's extraordinary artistic heritage. Leading specialists analyse the key cultural developments in this small country's history, from the extensive Roman remains on the Adriatic coast, through the gothic splendour of the Dalmatian cities in the Middle Ages and intensive artistic exchange with Italy during the Renaissance, to the grand houses and art collections of continental Croatia. The essays address iconic monuments like Diocletian's palace at Split and the walled city of Dubrovnik alongside more unfamiliar treasures, some never published before. This books sets Croatia's cultural past in context, reflecting the country's unique history at the crossroads between Italy, Central Europe and the Mediterranean. With contributions by leading British, American and Croatian writers and scholars, including John Julius Norwich, Timothy Clifford, Marcus Binney, Brian Sewell and Sheila McNally this book presents for the first time a portrait of the culture of this captivating and too little known country.
Mythologies and narratives of victimisation pervade contemporary Croatia, set against a backdrop of militarised notions of masculinity and the political mobilisation of religion and nationhood. Based on fieldwork in rural Dalmatia in the Croatian-Bosnian border region, this book provides a unique account of the politics of ambiguous Europeanness from the perspective of those living at Europe's margins. Tackling unresolved questions about fragmentation, transitoriness, belonging, and boundaries, Narrating Victimhood examines the continuing contestations over truth, history, and memory that have helped shape this region.
This book advances a cultural perspective on economic development to show that economic success can result from the symbolic resources that nations, regions and communities have at their disposal.
This book brings together scholars from across a variety of academic disciplines to assess the current state of the subfield of popular geopolitics. It provides an archaeology of the field, maps the flows of various frameworks of analysis into (and out of) popular geopolitics, and charts a course forward for the discipline. It explores the real-world implications of popular culture, with a particular focus on the evolving interdisciplinary nature of popular geopolitics alongside interrelated disciplines including media, cultural, and gender studies.
This two-volume set presents information and images of the varied clothing and textiles of cultures around the world, allowing readers to better appreciate the richness and diversity of human culture and history. The contributors to Encyclopedia of National Dress: Traditional Clothing around the World examine clothing that is symbolic of the people who live in regions all over the world, providing a historical and geographic perspective that illustrates how people dress and explains the reasons behind the material, design, and style. The encyclopedia features a preface and introduction to its contents. Each entry in the encyclopedia includes a short historical and geographical background for the topic before discussing the clothing of people in that country or region of the world. This work will be of great interest to high school students researching fashion, fashion history, or history as well as to undergraduate students and general readers interested in anthropology, textiles, fashion, ethnology, history, or ethnic dress.
Croatia is a magnificent land full of surprises. Visitors are amazed to discover a country with spectacular natural wonders, a great culinary tradition, excellent wine, architecture, a beautiful language, and a vibrant national culture. While it is a small country when measured in square miles, market size, or military power, it has a rich culture that has profoundly impacted the world. The contributors to Croatian Cultural Renaissance: From the Margins to the Crossroad of Europe were the protagonists who survived the communist period and then lived through the fraught period of the Croatian War of Independence in the 1990s; they worked to understand, build, and preserve their cultural identity and freedom as Croatian people. They are diplomats, government officials, artists, and academics who are recognized within Croatia for their intellectual prowess and for their vital and noteworthy contributions to their country. While the chapters explore different areas of Croatia’s national culture, they are united in showing how the national identity and ethos have deep roots and provide insight in what it means to be Croatian today.
Unraveling Croatia’s Hidden Treasures: Incognito Explorers Series Embark on an unforgettable journey with Unraveling Croatia’s Hidden Secrets-Croatia travel guide 2024, your ultimate companion to exploring the hidden gems of Croatia. This comprehensive guidebook is designed for those who seek to uncover the true essence of Croatia, blending the charm of ancient history with the allure of modern adventures. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or planning your first visit, this Croatia travel guide offers insightful tips and detailed information to make your trip memorable. Dive into the rich tapestry of Croatian culture, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, all meticulously covered in this guide. Why this book? Discover why this guidebook stands out among other Croatia travel guide 2024 books. Offering up-to-date information, it ensures that you have the latest recommendations for the best experiences in Croatia 2024. As part of the broader collection of Croatian books, this guide is meticulously researched, providing you with deep insights into the country's rich history and vibrant present. Explore Europe with one of the best Europe travel books 2024, focusing specifically on Croatia's unique destinations. Whether you're delving into travel books Europe for the first time or adding to your collection, this travel guide Croatia is an essential resource for any explorer. Destinations Covered: Explore the historical significance, local culture, and must-see landmarks of Croatia’s most captivating destinations: 1. Trogir: Wander through the well-preserved medieval town, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in local traditions. 2. Dubrovnik: Walk the ancient city walls, savor the culinary delights, and participate in vibrant festivals. 3. Zadar: Experience modern attractions like the Sea Organ, explore historical landmarks, and enjoy outdoor activities. 4. Hvar: Revel in the nightlife, relax on pristine beaches, and stroll through aromatic lavender fields. 5. Pučišća: Discover the charm of this small town known for its stone masonry and cultural heritage. 6. Labin: Explore the artistic old town, enjoy local festivals, and taste Istrian delicacies. 7. Cavtat: Delight in the serene beauty, visit historical sites, and participate in local traditions. 8. Rovinj: Stroll through the romantic old town, savor exquisite truffles and wines, and explore hidden gems. 9. Skradin: Enjoy the natural beauty of nearby Krka National Park, and delve into local culture and festivals. 10.Korčula: Explore the ancient streets, visit Marco Polo's house, and enjoy traditional sword dances and local festivals. Additional Insights: 1. Travel Tips: Essential advice to make the most of your journey. 2. Culinary Delights: Discover the best local dishes and where to find them. 3. Hidden Gems: Off-the-beaten-path attractions that you won’t want to miss. 4. Outdoor Activities: Recommendations for adventures in Croatia’s stunning landscapes. 5. Local Traditions and Festivals: Get to know the cultural festivities that bring Croatia to life Each destination offers a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure waiting to be explored. Indulge in culinary delights, uncover hidden gems, and participate in local traditions that will leave you enchanted. Designed for curious souls and seasoned travelers alike, this guidebook is your essential companion to uncovering the allure of Croatia. Whether you're seeking historical landmarks, off-the-beaten-path adventures, or vibrant festivals, let this guide ignite your sense of wonder and inspire your next unforgettable journey. Unlock the secrets of Croatia today – your journey begins here!
