The Croatian coastal town of Opatija on Saturday evening held events dedicated to the past of this resort with the longest tradition of tourism in Croatia and the organisers of the ceremonies titled "Opatija-Imperial City" revived the heritage of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy.
In late 19th century, Opatija, a town southwest of Rijeka, became a fashionable destination for the Austrian imperial family and Austrian nobility and soon more luxury hotels and villas were built. The first luxury hotel – Hotel "Quarnero", today known as "Grand Hotel Kvarner", was built to the plans by the Viennese architect Franz Wilhelm in the 1884. The hotel Kronprinzessin Stephanie was opened in 1885, named after crown princess Stephanie, wife of Rudolf of Habsburg, and they both appeared at the opening. Architect Franz Wilhelm offered all luxury to the guests of the hotel, from the central heating to the pool, and, later, the cinema hall, which has been connected to the central part of the hotel.
During last night's events, participants were dressed in the costumes from that era.
