Among 1185 Croatian islands, only one is known as the “Golden Island” (Insula Aurea), namely the island of Krk. It is situated in the heart of the Kvarner Bay and is recognized as one of the most attractive tourist destinations. Already in ancient times, the island of Krk was referred to as the “Golden Island” because of its mild Mediterranean climate, geographical position and diversity of natural and cultural beauties. For its cultural heritage, it was also dubbed the “Cradle of the Croatian Culture” and at the beginning of the 20th century, some even started referring to this island as the “Sixth Continent”.
Since ancient times, it has been believed that the history of the island of Krk is connected to number seven: the island was inhabited by Croats in the 7th century; it successfully withstood seven pirate attacks; and the 7th in the line of the Frankopan dukes was the last Duke of Krk. Today, the island of Krk has seven major centers, the main of which is the city of Krk, former Roman municipality (municipium) and today an administrative, religious and economic center of the island as well as one of the most significant cultural and historical cradles.
Other important centers are Punat (nautical and olive-growing center), Baška (the origin of Croatian literature and culture), Krk (the origin of glagolism and spirituality), Omišalj (important Glagolitic and cultural center) and Malinska and Njivice (touristic centers of the island).
The offer of the island of Krk is diverse and every visitor can find something for themselves from cultural-historical sites, indigenous Krk delicacies, beautiful beaches and intact nature to entertainment and more and more developed and attractive sports tourism.
