VILLA ANGIOLINA: WHERE OPATIJA’S TOURISM STORY BEGAN

Step back in time to 1844, when Rijeka merchant Ignio Scarpa built Villa Angiolina, naming it in loving memory of his late wife. This charming seaside villa marked the beginning of Opatija’s reputation as a premier coastal getaway and laid the foundation for Croatia’s first and longest-standing tourism tradition. Today, Villa Angiolina is proudly part of the Croatian Museum of Tourism, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and the legacy of elegance that started it all.

But the villa is only the beginning. Scarpa, a passionate nature lover, created a breathtaking horticultural paradise around the home between 1845 and 1860. Angiolina Park spans beautifully landscaped grounds featuring 60 ornamental fields and over 150 plant species from around the globe. Meander along its winding paths and discover exotic treasures, including the Japanese camellia (Camellia japonica), a stunning plant that has since become a beloved symbol of Opatija’s tourism heritage.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape by the sea, Villa and Park Angiolina offer an enchanting journey through time, beauty, and botanical wonder. Stroll through the lush gardens, admire the villa’s elegant architecture, and let the charm of Opatija’s earliest seaside retreat transport you to a bygone era of elegance and leisure.