Kupa

The Kupa river, also known as Kolpa, is an important river in the region of Croatia and Slovenia. It is a major tributary of the Sava river and stretches for about 297 kilometres or 185 miles. A part of the river, around 118 kilometres or 73 miles, forms a natural border between north-west Croatia and southeast Slovenia, while the rest of the river flows through Croatia.

In the past, the river was known by different names. The Romans called it Colapis, and in Hungarian it was referred to as Kulpa. Today, it is an important feature for both countries, supporting life and activities along its banks. The Kupa has played a key role in the history and geography of the area for many years.

Etymology

The name Colapis, known from ancient times, is thought to come from old roots meaning "turn, meander" and "water", suggesting "meandering water". Another idea is that it might mean "clear river" from roots meaning "shiny, bright".

Course

The Kupa River starts in Croatia, in the mountains near Rijeka within Risnjak National Park. It flows eastward, picking up the small Čabranka River before forming a border between Slovenia and Croatia.

As it continues, the Kupa moves between the White Carniola region to the north and Central Croatia to the south. It joins the river Lahinja near Primostek, passes through Vrbovsko, and leaves the border after Metlika.

The river reaches the city of Karlovac, where it combines with the Dobra and Korana rivers, which also includes the Mrežnica. Continuing east, it merges with the Glina River, flows past small towns like Šišinec and Brkiševina, and finally reaches Sisak. Here, it joins the Odra River before flowing into the Sava River.

Pollution

The upper part of the Kupa river is a nice place to visit and swim in during the summer, especially before it reaches Karlovac. A part of the river from Stari Trg to Fučkovci has been protected as part of a nature reserve since 2006.

People often check how clean the water is at places like Radenci, Kamanje, and Karlovac to make sure it stays healthy.

History

In 1899, a person named M. Pavelić from Brod tried to find a simpler way to reach the source of the Kupa river.