The International Federation for Journalists and travel Writers
has chosen Medjimurje County to be awarded with “FIJET Golden Apple” for the year 2024.
On this World Tourism Day, September 27, Fijet brings the “Golden Apple Award” to Medjimurje County for an exceptional synergy of natural, historical and cultural heritage, and its implementation in sustainable tourism. By valuing and preserving cultural and natural heritage, Medjimurje secures the constancy of cultural values, as well the potential for further development of tourism, its affirmation, stimulation of the economic competitiveness and improved quality of life.
Great recognition came as a result of effort, work, commitment of all residents of Međimurje. This is a reward for all those who tirelessly and devotedly take care of the orderliness of their homeland, environmental protection, preservation of natural and cultural values and its synergy and implementation in tourism. With this valuable recognition, it was recognized by the media professionals at the world level.
A prestigious ceremony will take place in the City of Cakovec, at the old town atrium in Presence of the County Mayor. During an official ceremony Tijani Haddad Federation President will present the award to Mr. Matija Posavec,the County Mayor and Rudi Grula, the director of County Tourist Office.
The Fijet delegation of Executive Committee members and Golden Apple Committee, members from Hungary and Slovenia, as well as many members from Fijet Croatia will be present at the Award Ceremony. You will have more information after the Golden Apple Ceremony what will be held 27th of September in the City of Cakovec, Medjimurje County.
Short Information about the Medjimurje Region:
Međimurje is the green cradle of Croatian sustainable tourism, all our tourism development strategies are aimed at sustainability, promotion of rich natural values between Mura and Drava, revitalization of cultural heritage, our history, quality of enogastronomy and local products, and everything that gives a strong identity of Međimurje.
Međimurje has been named a Green Destinations region at the ITB Berlin 2023, the world’s biggest tourism fair, and has won the silver Green Destination award, which makes this northern Croatian region the first Croatian region and the world’s fourth region to join the Green Destinations certification programme.
The City of Cakovec with its county, it enjoys exceptional quality recognition among partners and tourists around the world and develops sustainable and responsible tourism in line with UN principles and goals of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.
Tourism development strategies in Međimurje were oriented towards sustainability, promotion of the rich natural heritage in the area between the Mura and Drava rivers, revitalisation of the local cultural heritage, quality regional wines and food and other local products.
Čakovec – the capital of Medjimurje
The major tourist attraction in Čakovec is the Zrinski guard who are the keepers of the heritage of the Croatian noble family Zrinski. This historic unit of guardsmen, artillerymen and a drum orchestra are dressed in luxurious garb and they draw attention to themselves wherever they go.
Čakovec is the town of the Zrinski family who lived in the castle at the centre of the town. Located near the town’s main square, Čakovec Castle is one of the region’s biggest fortifications. The castle was built in the 13th century. Natural disasters and subsequent renovations have led to the castle’s current Baroque-style design. Today it houses the Museum of Međimurje with a rich archaeological, ethnographic and historical collection, as well as an art gallery. The Zrinski family lived in Čakovec from 1546 until 1670, long enough to influence its culture and religious tradition and enhance its social life.
Legend has it that underneath the Old Town lies the dragon Pozoj that used to cause earthquakes and natural disasters, but was defeated by Dijak Grabancijaš. Modern Čakovec preserves its rich cultural heritage while simultaneously embracing the new and contemporary.
