Discover Croatian Hollywood: A Unique Film Tourism Project Celebrates Croatia’s Cinematic History
Published on
November 16, 2025
Croatia, often celebrated for its stunning landscapes and vibrant history, is now stepping into the spotlight of the film world with an exciting new project called Croatian Hollywood. This innovative initiative, launched by Croatian directors Bruno Grgurić and Darko Duda, aims to highlight the country’s rich cinematic history, revealing the myriad of iconic films shot across its picturesque locations.
The project, inspired by a phrase coined by Đelo Hadžiselimović seven years ago, seeks to shine a light on the lesser-known but deeply significant role Croatia has played in international cinema. Hadžiselimović’s remark that Croatia is “a little Hollywood” sparked a wave of enthusiasm, leading to the creation of a comprehensive cultural and film tourism project designed to celebrate the country’s contributions to the world of film.
From Documentaries to a National Film Experience
Initially conceived as a documentary series, the Croatian Hollywood project soon blossomed into something far grander. As Grgurić and Duda began researching Croatia’s film history, they uncovered a surprising number of international productions that have been filmed in the country over the decades, many of which were previously unknown to the general public. From Hollywood blockbusters to Oscar-winning films, Croatia has long been a sought-after destination for filmmakers looking for dramatic backdrops, historical authenticity, and cinematic beauty.
The scope of the project grew to encompass not just a documentary but an interactive film tourism experience. Visitors can now follow in the footsteps of their favorite movie characters as they tour Croatia’s iconic filming locations. This immersive project aims to foster curiosity and engage both film lovers and tourists alike, combining education, history, and emotion.
A New Form of Cultural Tourism
The Croatian Hollywood initiative offers more than just a cinematic exploration of the country—it creates a new form of cultural tourism. The project connects film locations with QR codes placed at significant sites across the country. When a tourist scans a code, they can watch the corresponding movie scene and learn about the film’s background and the exact filming location. These boards are not isolated but interconnected, creating a network of film sites that lead travelers on a journey through time and across the country.
The aim is to combine Croatia’s film history with its tourism industry, creating a seamless bridge between past and present. Grgurić and Duda explained that their vision was to bring film back into the public consciousness, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the locations and sets where major films were made. “It’s incredible to realize just how many iconic movies were shot here, many of which people are unaware of,” Duda remarked, reflecting on the findings of their research.
Film Locations as Cultural Landmarks
The project seeks to celebrate Croatian film locations as cultural landmarks, and in doing so, draw attention to the country’s long-standing cinematic legacy. Croatia’s breathtaking landscapes, from the ancient walls of Dubrovnik, which famously served as the backdrop for Game of Thrones, to the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic coast seen in countless films, offer endless possibilities for filmmakers.
But Croatia’s film history stretches far beyond the recent surge in international productions like Star Wars and Game of Thrones. The country’s film industry has been a significant player on the global stage since the 1950s, and the Croatian Hollywood project aims to uncover the lesser-known films that have shaped its cinematic identity.
For example, locations featured in Academy Award-winning films like “The Bourne Identity” and “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again” will be highlighted, offering tourists the opportunity to explore film sets that have become integral parts of global film culture.
Engaging the Public with Film History
The Croatian Hollywood initiative involves not only film directors but also a team of experts, including historians and technical advisors, who have worked on numerous productions filmed in Croatia. This collaboration has enriched the project, ensuring that the information provided is accurate and comprehensive. By working with international film professionals, the project aims to build a stronger connection between Croatia’s cultural history and its current status as a hub for international cinema.
Grgurić and Duda emphasize that the Croatian Hollywood project is not just about film tourism; it’s about reviving the public’s interest in film heritage and art while contributing to the cultural and economic growth of the country. By highlighting Croatia’s diverse and impressive array of film locations, the project hopes to foster a new generation of film fans and cultural tourists who are eager to explore the places where movies come to life.
A Bright Future for Croatian Film Tourism
As Croatian Hollywood continues to expand, it is set to transform how travelers and film enthusiasts view Croatia. With each new film location added to the map, the project promises to offer a dynamic and engaging way to explore the country’s cultural and cinematic identity. This initiative will not only boost tourism but also help solidify Croatia’s position as an essential destination for film lovers and cultural explorers worldwide.
In conclusion, the Croatian Hollywood project is much more than just a tribute to Croatia’s film industry—it’s a celebration of culture, history, and cinematic tourism. Whether you are a movie buff or a curious traveler, Croatia offers a rich tapestry of stories waiting to be discovered. From Game of Thrones to iconic Oscar-winning classics, the country’s cinematic past is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.
