Croatia’s largest counties and where the fewest people live

by croatiaweek
August 31, 2024
in Entertainment

Croatia is administratively divided into 21 counties, but not all counties are the same. They vary in size, population, and the number of cities and municipalities they encompass.

Here is a list of the largest Croatian counties, each covering more than 3,000 square kilometres, according to Večernji list:

Zagreb County – 3,060 square kilometres and a population of 299,985. Located in central Croatia, it surrounds the capital city, Zagreb, and is one of the most economically developed counties in the country.

The county is known for its mix of urban and rural areas, with large industrial zones as well as agricultural land.

Samobor

Due to its proximity to Zagreb, the county offers numerous opportunities for business and tourism, including attractions such as the thermal springs in Ivanić-Grad and natural beauty spots like the Samobor Hills.

Primorje-Gorski Kotar County – 3,588 square kilometres and a population of 265,419. This county extends from the Adriatic Sea to the mountainous region of Gorski Kotar.

Rijeka, the county’s capital, is Croatia’s largest port and an important industrial centre.

Rijeka

Karlovac County – 3,626 square kilometres and a population of 112,195. Located in central Croatia, it is known for its rivers and unspoilt nature.

The city of Karlovac is famously referred to as the “city on four rivers” due to its unique natural resources.

Karlovac

Zadar County – 3,646 square kilometres and a population of 159,766. Renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning coastline dotted with numerous islands.

The city of Zadar is the cultural hub of the county, famous for the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation installation.

Zadar

Osijek-Baranja County – 4,155 square kilometres and a population of 258,026. Situated in eastern Croatia, it is known for its fertile plains and rich cultural heritage.

The city of Osijek, the county’s centre, is a significant educational, cultural, and economic hub of the region.

Osijek

Sisak-Moslavina County – 4,468 square kilometres and a population of 139,603. Located in central Croatia, it is recognised for its rich cultural heritage and history of warfare.

Sisak is a city known for its iron industry and its significant historical role in resisting the Ottomans.

Split-Dalmatia County – 4,540 square kilometres and a population of 423,407. This county encompasses coastlines, islands, and mountains and is home to Split, Croatia’s second-largest city.

Split

Diocletian’s Palace, located in Split, is one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the world.

Lika-Senj County – 5,353 square kilometres and a population of 42,748. This is Croatia’s largest county by area and the one with the smallest population. The county is famous for Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Europe’s most stunning natural wonders.