Who would have thought that Texas and Arizona would be best filmed in Croatia?
Legendary locations that captivated millions of viewers worldwide
More than half a century ago, Croatia became an unexpected star of the silver screen. Whilst the world dreamt of the Wild West, our stunning landscapes became the backdrop for one of the most successful film series. It was the tales of the legendary Native American chief Winnetou.
When Paklenica became Arizona
Between 1962 and 1968, Croatian landscapes underwent a cinematic transformation that few regions could imagine. Instead of America’s desert vistas, directors recognised the enchanting beauty of our national parks and natural wonders. Paklenica, Plitvice Lakes, Krka, the Zrmanja canyon, and Tulove grede on Velebit all became the stage. These locations hosted adventures that delighted millions of viewers across Europe.
A co-production that made history
Berlin’s Rialto Film joined forces with our own Jadran Film in a project that exceeded all expectations. Seven of the eleven films in the Winnetou saga were shot in the immediate vicinity of Starigrad-Paklenica. This area thus gained cult status as a destination for Karl May enthusiasts.
From Galovački Buk to Silver Lake
The first adventure, “Treasure of Silver Lake”, was filmed in 1962 at Plitvice Lakes. Galovački Buk, Prštavac and Veliki Slap became the backdrop for the treasure hunt. Meanwhile, Kaluđerovac Lake “played” the mystical Silver Lake. The small natural cave Šupljara was transformed into the legendary gateway to hidden treasure.
Zrmanja Canyon & Tulove Grede Kroatien Croatia Winnetou Old Shatterhand: https://youtu.be/1CEECe_7Rfo?si=pwj66l1H8l1lEiRS
The legend’s return in 2015
After a long hiatus, Winnetou returned to Croatia in 2015. This time the location was Breze near Novi Vinodolski (Rijeka), where enthusiasts gathered. They were eager to participate in creating a new page of film history.
Among the extras who embodied members of Native American tribes was the lovely Aleksandra Kinkela. She shared her photographs from that unforgettable experience with us.
“It was an incredible experience,” Aleksandra recalls. “We weren’t just filming – we were creating magic. Socialising with the other extras, as well as the main actors, made the whole experience even more special. The feeling of being part of something that will remain recorded on film – that’s something you don’t forget.”
A legacy that endures
Today, more than six decades after the first “Action!”, Croatian filming locations have retained their magic. Paklenica remains a favourite destination for Winnetou fans. The beautiful landscapes that once captivated film directors continue to attract visitors from around the world.
Winnetou films are still considered the most-watched films of all time in Germany. This is proof that Croatian nature managed to find its way into the hearts of millions of cinema lovers. They thus made our country, at least on film, part of the greatest cinematic legend of the Wild West.
If you’re heading to Croatia this summer and want to visit some famous film locations whilst enjoying the stunning natural scenery, check out this link for more information.https://www.croatiantravelclub.com/tours/winnetou-jeep-safari-tour/25.html