Benkovac, City: Facts, What to Eat, What To Buy, Tourist Attraction & Things to Do
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 29 May, 2023
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Benkovac is a city in Croatia located in Northern Dalmatia. It spans both the continental Croatian region of Lika, and the Adriatic Sea coast. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Benkovac is an exciting destination filled with unique facts, delicious eateries, interesting shops, stunning tourist attractions, and plenty of exciting activities to enjoy. Let’s take a look at what makes Benkovac such a special place to visit.
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Benkovac, City
1. Benkovac is a historical town located in Zadar County, Croatia.
2. It is the largest city in the region, with a population of over 4,200 people.
3. It was first mentioned in historical records in 1271 under the name “Castrum Benkouac.”
4. It is known for its lush green landscapes, including the nearby lake Vransko and the surrounding Kornati National Park.
5. Benkovac is an important educational and cultural center, with several museums and galleries located in the city center.
6. The city is also a popular tourist destination, with many Ancient and Medieval monuments, including the remains of the St. Peter’s Church.
7. Benkovac is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, with many traditional festivals, dances, and games still held today.
8. The city is famous for its honey production, with the first honey festival conducted in 2017.
9. Benkovac is also a popular destination for wine-tasting and tasting local cuisine, as there are many restaurants and wineries in the region.
What To Eat In Benkovac City
Benkovac is a small town located in Croatia, known for its rich culinary heritage. Here are some traditional dishes you can try when visiting Benkovac:
- Peka: Peka is a delicious dish made of meat and vegetables cooked under a bell-shaped lid, typically over an open fire. It can consist of various meats like lamb, veal, or chicken, along with potatoes, onions, and herbs. The slow cooking process gives it a tender and flavorful taste.
- Pršut: Pršut is a dry-cured ham similar to Italian prosciutto. It is made from locally sourced pork and aged for an extended period. Pršut is often served thinly sliced as an appetizer or used in sandwiches. The flavor is rich and savory, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors.
- Pašticada: Pašticada is a traditional Dalmatian dish that consists of slow-cooked beef marinated in red wine and vinegar, then stewed with onions, garlic, and various spices. It is typically served with homemade gnocchi or pasta. The dish has a rich and robust flavor that comes from the long cooking process.
- Soparnik: Soparnik is a traditional Croatian pie made with Swiss chard, garlic, and olive oil. The filling is placed between two layers of thin dough and then baked until crispy. Soparnik is a popular choice for a light lunch or snack, and it offers a unique combination of flavors.
- Rožata: Rožata is a creamy caramel custard dessert with hints of lemon and rose liqueur. It is similar to crème caramel or flan and is often served chilled. The dessert has a smooth texture and a delicate balance of sweetness.
- Octopus Salad: Given the town’s coastal location, seafood dishes are also popular in Benkovac. Octopus salad is a refreshing and light appetizer made with boiled octopus, tomatoes, onions, parsley, olive oil, and lemon juice. It showcases the flavors of the Adriatic Sea and is a great choice for seafood lovers.
Don’t forget to pair your meal with some local Croatian wines or rakija (a fruit brandy) to enhance your dining experience.
What To Buy In Benkovac City For Souvenirs
When visiting Benkovac, you can find a variety of unique souvenirs that reflect the local culture and traditions. Here are some items you can consider buying as souvenirs:
- Traditional Croatian Crafts: Look for handmade crafts that showcase the region’s traditional craftsmanship. These can include embroidered linens, lacework, wooden toys, and pottery. These items make for beautiful and authentic souvenirs.
- Olive Oil: Benkovac is located in an olive-growing region, so high-quality olive oil is a popular local product. Look for bottles of extra virgin olive oil made from locally grown olives. It’s not only a delicious and healthy addition to your kitchen but also a great gift for food enthusiasts.
- Local Wines: Croatia has a long tradition of winemaking, and you can find excellent wines produced in the region around Benkovac. Look for bottles of red or white wine made from local grape varieties, such as Plavac Mali or Pošip. Wine lovers will appreciate these unique flavors.
- Lavender Products: Croatia is known for its lavender fields, and you can find various lavender-based products in Benkovac. Look for lavender soaps, essential oils, sachets, or dried lavender bundles. These items not only smell wonderful but also represent the aromatic essence of the region.
- Traditional Croatian Food Products: Bring home the flavors of Benkovac by purchasing local food products. Look for jars of ajvar (a roasted red pepper spread), honey, fruit preserves, or traditional Dalmatian spices and herbs. These items will allow you to savor the tastes of Benkovac even after your trip.
- Traditional Costumes and Accessories: If you’re interested in traditional clothing and accessories, you might find stores or markets selling folk costumes, embroidered shirts, scarves, or traditional jewelry. These items showcase the cultural heritage of the region and can be unique souvenirs.
Remember to explore local markets, shops, and artisan stores to find the best selection of authentic Benkovac souvenirs.
Best Tourist Attraction In Benkovac City
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Benkovac City is the Old Town of Benkovac. The Old Town, built in the 14th century, is a preserved and protected archaeological site and a symbol of Benkovac’s past. The area includes a variety of historic churches, monasteries, and other monuments.
These sites represent different historical periods, from medieval to post-WWII times. Visitors can wander the cobbled streets, admiring the remains of Benkovac’s former power and grandeur.
There is also a unique Benkovac Town Museum to explore. The museum houses significant archaeological finds from the region, along with a collection of coins and archaeological artifacts. Visitors can also explore the nearby Benkovac Fortress and Vrana Lake Nature Park.
What To Do In Benkovac City
1. Visit Sv. Stjepan Church: Located in the center of Benkovac City, Sv. Stjepan Church is a Roman Catholic church built in the 14th century. The church is a great example of Dalmatian Romanesque architecture and provides a beautiful backdrop for a picture.
2. Explore the Benkovac Fortress: This fort was built by the Venetians in the 15th century to guard the city from the Turks. It offers a glimpse into the city’s past and some stunning views.
3. Taste Traditional Dishes: Benkovac is known for its traditional food, so why not try some of their local dishes? Savor the flavors of the city, such as the black risotto with cuttlefish or the local smoked ham.
4. Tour the National Monuments: Visit the 12th century Jurja Miljana Tower, on the nearby Islands, or the 16th century Visko’s Tower, which is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the city.
5. Experience the Caves of Benkovac: Near the city lies a system of caves, one of which is more than 500 m deep. Enjoy its exciting life stories and be amazed at the diverse ecology found there.
6. Visit the Museum of Archaeology: Located in the town center, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including pieces from the Stone Age and the Iron Age.
7. Go Trekking: Benkovac City is known for its excellent trekking routes and offers a great opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts.
8. Explore the Nature Park: The nearby Nature Park of Sveti Mihovil is a great place to visit for some incredible scenery and wildlife. Visit the Blue Lake, the largest lake in the park, or take a tour of the dense forests and enjoy the fresh air.
History & Information About Benkovac City
Benkovac is a small city located in the Zadar County of northwestern Croatia. It is situated near the rivers Krka and Zrmanja, approximately 25 kilometers south of the city of Zadar. The city of Benkovac is believed to have first arisen in the 14th century, although an exact date is not known. The town was first mentioned in a document by Hungarian King Louis I in 1385. It expanded in a period of economic growth in Dalmatia under Venetian rule.
Benkovac was annexed to Austria-Hungary in 1797, before becoming part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia in the aftermath of World War I. After World War II, the town became part of the socialist Federal People’s Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY). During Yugoslavia’s civil war, Benkovac was the site of intense fighting between Croatian forces and SFRY forces in 1991. Many residents were killed or displaced during this period of conflict. Since the 1990s, Benkovac has become part of the Republic of Croatia.
Today, Benkovac is a prosperous city known for its location near both the sea and the mountains. Benkovac is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including a castle, the Church of St. George, a clock tower, and other historical monuments. The city is also known for its production of wooden furniture.
What is Benkovac City is Known For
Benkovac is known for its rural agricultural life and its historical old town, where many of the buildings date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
The town also features some of the most important religious sites in the country, including the important monastery of St. Mary Magdalene with its beautiful frescos and the shrine of St. Nicholas. Benkovac also has a few smaller villages in its vicinity, and its surrounding landscape offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.