The Adriatic coast of Croatia, known as Dalmatia, is a colorful blend of old Europe, abruptly-rising coastal mountains and golden strands of beach. It is a coastline that has seen many conquerors, each of whom have left their architectural influences behind. The Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Slavs and Venetians all left their mark. The island towns are replete with red-tiled roofs, narrow streets of white limestone, elegant carved balconies, windows and portals. Weaving this rich tapestry together is the warm Adriatic Sea, beloved among those of the Mediterranean. It sparkles with a rare clarity and invites the body and soul for soothing swims.. There are over a thousand islands along the Croatian coast, but only 66 are inhabited, home to small towns, vineyards, olive groves and and fishing hamlets.