Neckties are from Croatia

Not many people know that Croatia is a home of a necktie (or cravat), so what could be a better souvenir from Croatia than a original tie from its homeland?

Here is a little history lesson.

At the beginning, the cravat (tie) was a kerchief worn by Croatian soldiers in the 17th century. When they came to France around 1635 to give their support to King Louis XIII and Cardinal Richelieu they have aroused interest on account of the unusual and picturesque scarves distinctively tied about their necks. The scarves were made of various cloths, ranging from coarse material for common soldiers, to fine cotton and silk for officers. This elegant "Croatian style" immediately enamoured the French, who were delighted by the new article of clothing, which had been previously unknown in Europe.

Since that time in the 17th century, derivatives of the word croata have been present in many languages, (i.e., English, German, French, Portuguese, Italian), meaning cravat or tie. It follows then that Croatia is the mother country of the necktie, as France is the mother country of high fashion, Brazil of coffee, Switzerland of cheese and watches, Portugal of port wine etc.

Nowadays, ties with characteristic Croatian motifs, such as Glagolitic script or the Croatian wicker-work pattern that can be found on Croatian monuments from the beginning of the Middle Ages, are worn on all continents. 600 million people now wear the ubiquitous symbol of Croatia around their necks, close to their hearts.

Silk ties are among Croatia's best known souvenirs and are a symbol of the cultural development of the Croatian people. Therefore, for those looking for an authentic Croatian souvenir a tie is a perfect solution.

Probably the most known producer of ties in Croatia is Croatia. Their web site is http://www.croata.hr where you can shop among many styles of ties, scarves, shawls, for both men and women but you can also visit their boutiques around Croatia (Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Split, Osijek, Rijeka etc.) and abroad.

Make sure to participate in the short course on 'how to tie a tie'! Quite useful.