Position and geography of Podstrana
Podstrana is part of the Split-Dalmatia County. It is located to the southeast of the city of Split, about 7 km from the historic city centre, at the foot of the coastal ridge of the mountain of Mosor (1330 m). It extends from the foot of the mountain Perun, along the lower course of the river Žrnovnica to the northwest, to the hill Mutogras in the southeast. The coastal part of Podstrana stretches for 6 km along a series of gravel bays and beaches.
The Climate
The area of Podstrana is in a zone of pleasant Mediterranean climate that favours the cultivation of Mediterranean cultures: olives, grapes, figs, carobs, citrus fruits, peaches and vegetable growing, which due to the mild climate thrive all year round.
The history of Podstrana
Before the invasion of the Avars and the arrival of the Croats on the Adriatic coast during the early seventh century AD, the area of Podstrana was populated mainly by Greek immigrants (archaeological remains on the hill Mutogras) and the Delmatae-Pituntium, one of the many Illyrian tribes, most likely citizens of the Roman settlement Pituntium.
Like in other parts of the region, so did this area come under the influence of different powers. Starting with the Croatian kings in the 10th century AD, followed by the Hungarian and Venetian administration, later, the French rule and all the way to the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. In the modern era, the Kingdom of Yugoslavia gained control until the Italian and German occupation, during World War II. The socialist Yugoslavia was followed by the present day, free and independent Croatia, a member of the European Union.
The population of Podstrana
The Municipality of Podstrana has, according to the results of the 2011 census, 9,129 inhabitants. The average age is 36.9 years, which certainly places it among younger municipalities in Croatia. An interesting fact is that that the Municipality of Podstrana, comparing the birth and death rates, is in first place in Croatia, with 3.5 times, more births than deaths.
Tourism in Podstrana
The economic development of Podstrana is based on the development of tourism. The key characteristics of tourism development, as well as a guarantee for success, are to be found in the traditional hospitality of the people, the cultural heritage of the region and its natural beauty. The benefits of the climate, and the unique coastal characteristics of Pdstrana, with a series of beautiful beaches and the clear sea attract more and more visitors every year.
With the existing offer of private local restaurants, bed and breakfasts, with accommodation categorized according to European standards, we can say that Podstrana presents itself as an exceptional tourist destination and a perfect choice for business people as well as those who just want to relax.
Fun fact about Podstrana
Next to the church of St. Martin in Podstrana, lies buried the roman general Lucius Artorius Castus, who is allegedly believed to have served as the role model for the stories about the famous King Arthur.
