Croatia
The Republic of Croatia borders the Mediterranean and the Balkans. The capital city is Zagreb. The country achieved independence from the former Republic of Yugoslavia in 1991 and is currently a EU candidate member.
The name Croatia is the Latinized version of the country's native name, Hrvatska. This name was given to the territory settled by the Croats in the 7th century. Several duchies were established under the control of the Roman Empire and the Franks. In 925 Croatia became a powerful and independent kingdom. It retained its independence until the early 12th century, when it entered into a union with Hungary. Croatian nobles retained their titles and lands.more