Borovo Footwear Factory

The Borovo footwear factory in Vukovar is one of Croatia's most historic industrial enterprises, founded in 1931 by the Czech entrepreneur Tomáš Baťa. During its peak in the Yugoslav era, the conglomerate employed over 20,000 workers and served as a central pillar of the regional economy and a symbol of industrial advancement. During the Croatian War of Independence and the Siege of Vukovar in 1991, the factory suffered devastating damage, leading to a complete halt in production for several years. Following the war, Borovo was rebuilt under challenging circumstances, shifting its focus toward high-quality leather and rubber footwear. The factory is particularly famous for its Borosana line, originally designed as orthopaedic work shoes for women in the service sector, and the colorful Startas canvas sneakers. Today, the company is striving to modernize its facilities and reach new international markets through creative design collaborations. Borovo remains a vital employer in the Vukovar-Srijem County and stands as a significant testament to Central European industrial history.

Nearby cities

Osijek

Osijek is the cultural and economic center of Slavonia, located on the banks of the Drava River.

Slavonski Brod

This industrial city is located on the Sava River at the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Velika Gorica

Velika Gorica is located south of Zagreb and is the largest city in Zagreb County.

Vinkovci

Vinkovci is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe.

Sisak

Sisak is located at the confluence of the Kupa, Sava, and Odra rivers and has a long history dating back to Roman times.

Bjelovar

Bjelovar is a planned city in central Croatia, founded in the 18th century as a military base.

Koprivnica

Koprivnica is located in northwestern Croatia and is known as a major center for the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Vukovar

Vukovar is located at the confluence of the Vuka and Danube rivers and is an important symbol of the Croatian War of Independence.

Zaprešić

Zapresic is located northwest of Zagreb and is a modern city with a rich cultural heritage.

Đakovo

Đakovo is known for its monumental cathedral and the state Lipizzaner stud farm.

Požega

Požega is located in the heart of the 'Golden Valley' in Slavonia, surrounded by mountains.

Čakovec

Čakovec is the center of the Međimurje region in the extreme north of Croatia.

Virovitica

Virovitica is located at the foot of Mount Bilogora near the Hungarian border.

Petrinja

Petrinja is located at the confluence of the Petrinjčica and Kupa rivers in the Banovina region.

Kutina

Kutina is located at the edge of the Lonjsko Polje Nature Park and is a significant industrial center.

History & landmarks

Varaždin Castle

Varaždin Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress that evolved into a Renaissance and Baroque palace.

Varaždin Old Town

Varaždin was once the capital of Croatia.

Ilok

Croatia's easternmost town is famous for its centuries-old wine cellars and the magnificent Odescalchi Castle overlooking the Danube.