Rijeka is the third largest city of Croatia and most important seaport; it has population of approximately 145,000 inhabitants.
City of Rijeka is situated on Kvarner Bay; it is the seat of the Primorje - Gorski Kotar County, a region which consists of an unusual link between the sea and mountains from Ucka to Velebit.

The city's economy is based on sea transport, shipbuilding and tourism. Tourist visit Rijeka mainly because of city surroundings, Opatija Riviera, Crikvenica Riviera and Islands Krk, Cres, Losinj and Rab but also to visit town itself.

The oldest traces of settlements in Rijeka were by Celtic at Trsat on the hill, and the tribe the Liburni, in the natural harbor below. The town of Rijeka long retained its double character.

The Romans relocated the town center closer to the sea, with numerous archeological sites which give evidence of the urban level during the Roman time. Rijeka possessed all required predispositions for development into a significant seaport and trading town.

Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the town was ruled by the Byzantines, the Lombards, the Franks and the Croats before came under the control of the Austrian Habsburgs in 1466.

During the Medieval time Rijeka was a town surrounded by a city wall. In the 16th century significant economical development began, with the trade of oil, iron, wood, wool and leather but frequent attacks by the Turks, and other political conflicts in the area disrupt trade routes.

In the 18 century the Emperor Charles VI proclaimed Rijeka a free port and economy of town begins to flourish again, and Austro-Hungarian Monarchy views Rijeka as its gateway to the world.

In 1918 after the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, Rijeka was united with rest of Croatia but shortly, as it was occupied by the Italians. By end of WW2 Rijeka was once again reunited with the mother country Croatia.

Rijeka is more of port city and a transport hub than a destination in itself. However, if you have time to spare there is interesting things to see and do in Rijeka.

Rijeka hold many interesting events during the year but most important are the patron city St. Vitus, on 15th June, with a whole range of festivity; and Carnival in Rijeka City as international manifestation. The Carnival in Rijeka City is the third biggest carnival in the world after Rio de Janeiro and Venice.

What to see in Rijeka

Sanctuary of Madonna of Trsat
Trsat is part of the city of Rijeka, it is the major Croatian Christian pilgrimage center with the church of the Virgin Mary and the Franciscan monastery, nearby is also historic castle. Madonna of Trsat represents as protector of the travelers.

Cathedral of St. Vitus
It was formerly church dedicated to the guardian saint of Rijeka. The construction began in 1638 and lasted, with interruptions for about one hundred years. The dome is constructed by the Gothic architect in 1727. The Cathedral has several architectural similarities with the Venetian church Santa Maria della Salute.
The interior of the cathedral is dominated by mighty columns supporting the chapel arches which house the multicolored marble altars, and is made by artists and craftsmen in Gothic and Baroque style.

The Old Roman Gate,
It is portal of the main entrance to the Praetorium, a military command in the late antiquity. The Gate has attracted the attention of many scientists, and was subject of different hypothesis. 

City Clock Tower
The Clock Tower is situated at Korzo, the famous walking promenade of Rijeka and is dominating tower among other younger buildings. The front of the tower is richly decorated in Baroque style.

The Maritime and History Museum
The museum gives a general view of the development of navigation and culture of Rijeka and surrounding area.

City Museum
The City Museum is situated in building linked with the Maritime and History Museum. The museum activity is focusing mainly on expositions of the city's present and past periods.