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Holidays to Croatia are becoming increasingly popular with people of all ages and from all walks of life. The simple fact is that this wonderful country has so much to offer that whoever you are and whatever your interests, you’re sure to find a whole host of things to see and do. Fabulous scenery, rolling hills and mountains, forests, lakes and wildlife galore. A vibrant culture and history going back centuries, great food and fantastic wines, music and art, the brilliant Adriatic coast with beaches that have to be seen to be believed. Cities that never sleep with an endless selection of restaurants, bars and night clubs. Attractions for the children. Luxurious hotels for the visitor who wants and appreciates those extra-special pampering delights, as well as hotels suitable for the whole family. Historical and religious monuments and buildings dating back almost to the dawn of Christianity. Put all these factors together and you have the recipe for the perfect holiday. Euphrasian Basilica: Yet Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Croatia This splendid basilica is one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture, mosaics and art in Europe and well worth a visit during your holidays to Croatia. The basilica is named after Bishop Euphrasius, who commissioned the construction of the church in 553. Construction took about 10 years and included stones from the old church and marble specially imported from the coast along the Sea of Marmara. The basilica and other buildings sit on a spur of land that juts out into the Adriatic Sea. In fact, for many people, part of this place’s magic is the sound of the sea reverberating through the buildings, which adds another layer of magic to an already unique and amazing location. The basilica is the oldest of five buildings on the site which include: The octagonal basilica (part of an old baptistery) with its stunning mosaics and art work A 16th-century bell tower with a fantastic view from the top over the sea and surrounding countryside A colonnaded atrium with a great collection of old stone statues The remains of a 6th century Bishop's Palace A trefoil-shaped memorial chapel is the “newest” structure in the complex, having been built in the 17th century and extensively reconstructed in the 19th But it’s the Basilica itself that has a series of complex wall and floor mosaics, executed by master craftsmen both local and from across the Byzantine world. Art historians say that these may well be some of the most outstanding examples of Byzantine religious art in the world today. The mosaics themselves celebrate the life of Christ and depict a number of scenes and figures, including the Virgin Mary holding the Baby Christ. Keep an eye out for a mosaic depicting Bishop Euphrasius – he’s the one holding a model of the basilica. After Your Visit After exploring the basilica complex, take the time to stroll through Porec as well. It’s a lovely little town with many shops, restaurants and bars and you’ll be able to enjoy its relaxed, laid back atmosphere during your holidays to Croatia. The town hosts a number of events during the year, including the Istrian Spring cycling race; a colourful and vibrant Easter celebration; and the grand finale of the Dance Star World Tour with over 5000 dancers from around the world. John Dixon is Managing Director of Prestige Holidays and visits Croatia at least twice a year. He has been providing luxury holidays to Croatia as well as luxury holidays to many other destinations worldwide for over 30 years.
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