Vukovar

Vukovar is a town and river port at the confluence of the Vuka River into the Danube, 19 km east of Vinkovci, 36 km southeast of Osijek; elevation 108 m; population 20,301 (2001). Economy is based on farming, viticulture, livestock breeding, textile and food-processing industry. Vukovar is located on the main road (M7) Osijek-Vukovar-Ilok and on the railroad Vinkovci-Vukovar.

The largest Croatian town and river port on the Danube is famous for the appalling devastation which it suffered during the Croatian War of Independence. Among a number of attractive buildings, severely damaged in the recent war, the most interesting are the castle of the Eltz family (18th c.), Baroque buildings in the centre of the town, the Franciscan monastery, the parish church of St. James, the Orthodox church of St. Nicholas, etc. Outside the town, on the banks of the Danube toward Ilok, is the famous archaeological site, Vučedol. The ritual vessel called Vučedol Dove is considered the symbol of Vukovar. Vučedol is also a well-known excursion destination, frequented by anglers and bathers, especially the beautiful sand beach on Orlov Otok (Eagle's Island).

Sports and recreational opportunities are provided at the attractive confluence of the Vuka river into the Danube, on the promenades along the Danube and maintained beaches. Bathing is possible in the summer months. Angling is very popular both on the Vuka and the Danube (catfish, perch, carp, pike, sterlet).