What is the origin of the name Dalmatia?
The name Dalmatia originates from the Illyrian tribe known as the Dalmatae, who inhabited the eastern Adriatic coast during the first millennium BC.
Questions about Dalmatia
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did Slavic migrations to the Balkans begin and what was their impact on Dalmatia?
Slavic migrations to the Balkans began in the middle of the 6th century and continued into the early 7th century, causing Romance-speaking populations to flee to the coast and islands. By 619, Slavs and Avars had ruined the capital Salona, allowing for the settlement of Diocletian's Palace in Spalatum.
Which empires controlled parts of Dalmatia between 1000 and 1797?
The Republic of Venice controlled parts of Dalmatia from 1000 to 1358 and again from 1420 to 1797. The Siege of Zara occurred in 1202 when Venetians directed Crusaders to reconquer the city for themselves.
How did Italian language usage change in Dalmatia before World War I?
Before 1859, Italian was the language of administration, education, press, and navy. In 1865, Italian speakers formed 12.5% of the population but dropped to 2.8% by 1910.
What happened to Dalmatian Italians after World War II?
After World War II, most remaining Dalmatian Italians fled the region as part of the Istrian-Dalmatian exodus between 1943 and 1960. Approximately 350,000 Italians escaped from Istria and Dalmatia during this period.