Split-Dalmatia County has made a significant breakthrough in promoting its rich gastronomic heritage and has become an official candidate for the prestigious title of European Region of Gastronomy for 2027. This title, awarded by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Art and Tourism (IGCAT), recognizes regions that make exceptional efforts in preserving and developing their gastronomic culture, tourism, and sustainability.

International experts visiting the county

The evaluation of the Split-Dalmatia County candidacy was conducted through a detailed field inspection carried out by experts from IGCAT, led by the institute's president, Diana Dodd. During their several-day stay in the county, international experts had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with various aspects of local gastronomy and culture. They visited educational institutions dealing with tourism and gastronomy, museums that preserve cultural and historical heritage, as well as renowned wineries producing top-quality wines from this area.

Furthermore, the expert guests visited food industry factories, numerous restaurants, and family agricultural farms (OPGs) that carry the tradition and authenticity of Dalmatian cuisine. During tours and official talks, they held meetings with more than 75 key stakeholders from tourism, gastronomy, education, and agriculture to gain a comprehensive picture of current projects and initiatives contributing to the affirmation of the region as a gastronomic destination.

Diverse projects in the focus of evaluators

Experts paid special attention to educational programs focused on tourism and gastronomy, which show continuous growth in Split-Dalmatia County. Institutions educating future professionals in gastronomy and hospitality, as well as experts involved in preserving traditional recipes and food preparation techniques, are key bearers of the development of the gastronomic identity of this area.

Besides education, emphasis was also placed on local food and beverage producers. Wineries using indigenous grape varieties and OPGs offering traditional products such as olive oil, cheeses, and cured meat delicacies represent an important segment of the county’s gastronomic offer. Products with origin and high-quality labels confirm the status of Split-Dalmatia County as one of the most important Croatian regions in the gastronomy segment.

The importance of the title for regional tourism

Receiving the title of European Region of Gastronomy brings many benefits, not only for the gastronomic scene itself but also for the overall tourism development of the region. In the conditions of global tourism competition, emphasizing authentic and quality gastronomic offers helps attract increasingly demanding visitors who seek more than classic tourist attractions.

This title would also mean additional international promotion, as well as new opportunities for cooperation with other European regions sharing a similar goal of preserving and developing gastronomic culture. It would also encourage further investments in local products and services, directly contributing to improving the quality of life in the county and preserving tradition for future generations.

Support of the local community and economy

It is important to emphasize that the candidacy of Split-Dalmatia County is supported by a wide range of stakeholders. Besides tourist boards and hospitality providers, producers, farmers, educational institutions, and cultural organizations actively support the initiative, working together to make the gastronomic offer one of the main brands of the region.

The role of OPGs in this process cannot be underestimated because they preserve traditional recipes and production methods, and their cooperation with hospitality facilities and hotels ensures that authentic flavors reach a wide audience, from local residents to foreign guests.

Gastronomy as a driver of sustainable development

Split-Dalmatia County does not view gastronomy only as an attractive tourist offer but also as an important segment of sustainable development. Emphasis on the use of local, seasonal, and organically grown ingredients is part of a broader strategy that supports environmental protection and a healthy lifestyle.

Through projects aimed at educating about the importance of sustainability, and by encouraging young entrepreneurs to develop innovative gastronomic products, the county profiles itself as a modern and responsible destination that respects its history and natural resources.

What the title means for the future of Split-Dalmatia County

If Split-Dalmatia County wins the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2027, it will mark a turning point in its development as one of the most recognizable regions in Europe in terms of gastronomy. This title will bring additional visibility and enable broader cooperation at the international level, which will reflect in further tourism growth, increased export of local products, and strengthening of the region's brand.

Representatives of the county already announce new projects that will further improve the gastronomic offer and involve an even greater number of local stakeholders, all with the aim of making Split-Dalmatia County an unavoidable destination for lovers of food and culture worldwide.

For all those planning a trip and wanting to experience the authentic tastes of Dalmatia, Split-Dalmatia County offers diverse accommodation capacities and gastronomic experiences that will satisfy even the most demanding gourmets.