Croatia is a country situated at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe on the Adriatic Sea. Its capital and largest city, Zagreb, forms one of the country's primary subdivisions, along with twenty counties. Croatia has an area of 56,594 square kilometers and a diverse, mostly continental and Mediterranean climate. Croatia's Adriatic Sea coast contains more than a thousand islands. The country's population is approximately 4 million, most of whom are Croats, with the most common religious denomination being Roman Catholicism. Emerging as a sovereign state in 1991 after the breakup of Yugoslavia, Croatia is a republic governed under a parliamentary system. It is a member of the European Union, United Nations, the Council of Europe, NATO, the World Trade Organization, and a founding member of the Union for the Mediterranean. As an active participant in UN peacekeeping and a contributor to international military operations, Croatia has established itself as a stable international partner. Croatia boasts a rich cultural legacy that dates back to the early medieval period. Its history is marked by a series of foreign dominations, including those by the Hungarians, Ottomans, Venetians, and Austro-Hungarians. Today, Croatia is known for its historic architecture, natural beauty, and a vibrant tourist industry that is vital to its economy. The country's cultural heritage includes seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic city of Dubrovnik, the Plitvice Lakes National Park, and the Cathedral of Saint James in Šibenik. The Croatian economy is classified as a high-income economy by the United Nations. Key sectors include tourism, which accounts for up to twenty percent of GDP, energy, services, and agriculture. The country is also known for its wine, olive oil, and culinary offerings, which reflect its diverse influences and regions. Croatia's Adriatic coast is a popular destination for tourists seeking its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and Mediterranean climate. The interior of the country, while less frequented by tourists, offers historic cities, rural landscapes, and natural parks for exploration. Croatia's natural environment varies from flat plains along the Hungarian border, dense woodland regions in Lika and Gorski Kotar, which are part of the Dinaric Alps, to the rocky coastlines of the Adriatic Sea. The country is also home to several mountain ranges, including the Velebit, Dinara, and the Risnjak, which offer opportunities for hiking, climbing, and winter sports. The Croatian coast is known for its mild winters and dry summers, while the interior experiences a more continental climate, with hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Croatia's cultural scene is vibrant, with numerous festivals, events, and traditions that reflect its rich history. The country is also known for its contributions to the arts, including literature, music, film, and the visual arts. Croatian cuisine is diverse, with regional specialties that offer a blend of flavors influenced by its varied history and geography. Overall, Croatia is a country of stunning natural beauty, a rich cultural tapestry, and a growing reputation as a must-visit destination in Europe.