Vukovar, River port town in eastern Croatia
Vukovar is a port settlement along the Danube in eastern Croatia, close to the border with Serbia. The town spreads along both banks of the Vuka river up to its mouth, forming a transport hub for river trade with wide streets and industrial zones.
The settlement grew at a key point on the Danube shipping route and became a trade center under Habsburg rule in the 18th century. A three-month siege in autumn 1991 led to near-total destruction from which the town is still recovering.
The name comes from the Vuka river that flows through the settlement and meets the Danube at its eastern edge. Along the waterfront streets, fishermen prepare their nets while locals gather at small parks to talk and watch the current.
Buses run regularly to other Croatian cities, with trips to Zagreb taking around four hours. The waterfront areas along both rivers are walkable, though some streets still show reconstruction work.
A water tower from the early 20th century still carries visible damage and remains unrestored as a memorial structure. The tower rises above the surrounding rooftops and can be seen from many points around town.
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