The Importance of Water in Daily Life
Water is the most important ingredient for the survival and quality of life wherever you are. The human body consists of 60-70 percent of water, which is the basic, indispensable and necessary daily dietary component. Water is the most important component of the cuisine; with a safe tap water we can also choose one that has the characteristics suitable to our needs (acids, alkalines, minerals).
Fortunately, Croatia abounds with water. The public water supply system supplies 75 percent of the population, and about 90 percent of the water in Croatia comes from the supplies of high quality groundwater. Water is renewable, and the data show that Croatia uses between 140 and 150 litres per capita per day, corresponding to the EU average. In addition, 20 manufacturers offer high-quality water from water sources, natural water and mineralized water from deeppumping stations.
The human body and Croatia, according to information about water, it seems, are in a statistical coincidence and it is clear that the quantity, type and water quality are huge benefits that we gladly share with our guests.
Water has always been prized for its value and it was always managed wisely. Supporting this thought there is data on the existence of some form of water systems far in the past. For example, the remains of water pipes on Kupa River prove the existence of water systems in the area of Sisak probably dating from the Roman period. Pools and tanks for organized water supply of the population from ancient times are found on the Briuni islands too and above Bol on the isle of Brač. It is believed that parts of ancient Pula's water system originate from the 2nd century. At that time water was largely passed via clay pipes, and at the very end were found the remains of lead pipes.
A similar ancient water supply system exists also in the area west of Knin and a water supply system was buit in Zadar on the order of the Emperor Trajan. From the time of Venetian rule the remains of stone pipes were found in Ston and Gradac and wells in which water was collected were found on the island of Hvar and other islands. Novalja on the island of Pag was supplied by a water supply system that passed through a Roman ditch and it operated on wind power.
Diocletian's water system is one of the few which from the beginning until now remained partly functional so that even after almost two thousand years it is used to supply water to inhabitants of Split. The water supply which goes from the source of the Jadro river is extremely rich in high-quality water of maximum purity and is more than nine kilometres long. That the old masters certainly knew their job even without having measuring instruments that we have today is proved by the fact that they managed to build the system of water freefall. The slope has perfect channels towards Split. Relying on the flawless performance of gravity, the slope is constant (2.43 ‰), which has ensured the delivery of water to any desired point in the city. Plumbing pipes partially go through the tunnels and aqueduct, which is part of today's cultural monument - the so- called Dry Bridge.
The most perfect water scenery awaits visitors in natural parks. Whether you enjoy the waterfalls of Krka, Plitvice lakes or rivers, you will witness the wonders of nature that are impeccably maintained and their waters are pure. For those who seek health benefits from water, Croatia abounds in numerous thermal and curative waters containing components whose benefits have been confirmed by epidemiological studies.
The Adriatic Sea is the largest water resource in Croatia. The length of the Croatian coast is 1.880 km + 4.398 km surrounding the 1.244 islands, islets, reefs and rocks totaling 6.278 km. The waters of the Adriatic are of the optimal temperatures for our enjoyment and for the many animal species living in the sea.
wa t e r