Slavonija is, with Dalmatia, Croatia proper, and Istria, one of the four historical regions of Croatia taking up the east part of the country surrounded by three countries Bosnia&Hercegovina, Serbia and Hungary. The largest city in the region is Osijek, followed by Slavonski Brod and Vinkovci. The economy of Slavonia is largely based on processing industry, trade, transport and civil engineering. Agriculture is a significant component of its economy.
The cultural heritage of Slavonia is a blend of historical influences, especially those since the end of the 17th century, when Slavonia started recovering from the Ottoman wars, and its traditional culture. Slavonia contributed to the culture of Croatia, through art, writers, poets and art patronage. In traditional music, Slavonia is a distinct region of Croatia, and the traditional culture is preserved through folklore festivals, with prominence given to tamburica music and bećarac, a form of traditional song, recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. The cuisine of Slavonia reflects diverse influences—a blend of traditional and foreign elements. Slavonia is one of Croatia’s winemaking areas, with Ilok and Kutjevo recognized as centres of wine production.
