Fire Destroys Beloved Baranja Restaurant Citadela

A devastating fire completely destroyed the popular Baranja restaurant, Citadela, located in the village of Vardarac, Croatia, on May 13, 2025. The blaze, believed to have originated from a faulty junction box, quickly engulfed the building, causing significant damage to the structure and the adjacent home of the restaurant's owner. Local resident Sándor Markos described the scene as "terrible," stating, "I saw smoke everywhere, as thick as when they announce a new pope." Firefighters from Osijek and Beli Manastir responded swiftly, but the restaurant was extensively damaged. Despite the significant material loss, the community remains resilient, with the owner expressing hope for rebuilding. This incident highlights the importance of regular electrical safety checks and the dedication of local firefighters.