There probably are not many towns in this world which have changed rulers as often as Rijeka. The town of Rijeka has always been recognized for its strategic importance, hugging the coast adjacent to Trieste, the nearest port to mainland Europe. It has changed country five times.
Over the years there have been many contenders for the control of Rijeka. Amongst the more noteworthy were the italian noble family Devino, one of whom gave Rainer Maria Rilke a peaceful haven in his mansion near Trieste, where the Devino elegies were created. The french noblemen Walsee were also after the town and subsequently the powerful austrian house of Habsburg attempted to secure the town for their purposes. At a time when Rijeka possessed one of the most modern theaters in Europe the town was beleaguered by Napoleon's army.
