Opatija is a Croatian city on the Adriatic coast where tourism in Croatia (the mid-1800s) began, because of its beauty, a clear sea, but also for the quality of services offered to tourists.
It is a favorite destination for European tourists throughout the year.
Beginning in the 1980s, Opatija was the holiday resort of many artists such as James Joyce, Puccini, Chekhov or Isadora Duncan. To satisfy this demanding public, thalassotherapy centers and luxury villas have grown on the coast.
One of the most favorite tourist destination in Opatija is Villa Angiolina, an authentic Biedermeier beauty, built in 1884 by the wealthy merchant Ignacio Scarpa near the church of San Giacomo in Opatija.
Another symbol of Opatija is the statue of the Girl with the seagull. It stands elegantly on the coast of Opatija with a stunning sea view in front of it. During the night this statue offers a particularly fascinating sensation because it is illuminated with special spotlights.
