Karolinska Road – The First Path Through the Mountains
Step back in time as you cycle along Karolinska Road, the first modern route connecting Karlovac to the Adriatic Sea. Built in the 18th century, this historic path winds through the dense forests and rugged terrain of Gorski Kotar, offering an adventurous and scenic ride. Although it was eventually replaced by newer roads, Karolinska remains a symbol of innovation, offering breathtaking views and a journey through the Austrian Empire’s vision of uniting inland Croatia with the sea.
Name Meaning: Named after Charles VI, Holy Roman Emperor (Karolinska refers to Karlo, the Croatian form of Charles)
Location: Connects Karlovac (in continental Croatia) to Bakar (a port near Rijeka on the Adriatic Sea)
Construction Period:1726 – 1732
Built By:Austrian military engineers, under the command of Matija Weiss and commissioned by Charles VI
Purpose:
To provide a direct trade and military route between the Austrian hinterlands and the Adriatic coast
To strengthen Habsburg control over coastal Croatia and improve transportation for military supplies
Length: Approximately 106 km (66 miles)
Engineering Feats:
One of the first engineered roads across Gorski Kotar
Steep inclines and sharp switchbacks, making it challenging but revolutionary for its time
Stone markers and bridges that still survive today
Current Status:
Parts of the original route are preserved and visible for hiking and cycling
Some sections have been replaced by modern highways but the original traces still remain
Landmarks:
Historic stone markers and rest stations along the path
Bakar Bay, an important trade port connected by the road
Remnants of military checkpoints used during the Habsburg era
Fun Fact: Before the construction of Lujzijana, the Karolinska Road was the main route connecting the Austrian Empire to the Adriatic, though its steep gradients made travel slow and difficult.
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