Plitvice Lakes is the oldest and largest national park in the Republic of Croatia. The park is primarily covered in forest vegetation, with smaller areas under grasslands. The most attractive part of the park – the lakes – cover just under 1% of the total park area. With its magical harmony of forest, grassland and water, the Plitvice Lakes carry a special experience of nature in every season.
With its exceptional natural beauty, this area has always attracted nature lovers. Thus, on April 8, 1949, the Presidium of the People’s Republic of Croatia passed a law designating the Plitvice Lakes National Park, thereby placing this area of exceptional natural and cultural values under permanent and highest protection. For this reason, on April 8 this year the Park celebrates its 71st birthday!
The process of tufa (travertine) formation, which forms travertine barriers and thus creates cascading lakes, is the outstanding universal value, for which the Plitvice Lakes, on October 26, 1979, were crowned with international recognition by being listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The vision of the Plitvice Lakes National Park from the current Management Plan is:
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, a place to experience and learn about the outstanding universal value and other natural and cultural values. It is an example of good protected area management in cooperation with the local community, where conserved nature is the foundation of sustainable development.
Plitvice Lakes adorn the combination of water and forest, but what is important to highlight is the richness of natural and cultural heritage. The rich flora and fauna, diversity of habitats, archeological sites, mills and sawmills are only part of the value of Plitvice Lakes National Park. The synergy of nature and human activity is the key to the preservation of natural and cultural values unique.
Lakes change their attire throughout the year, from colors, tufa, water levels and waterfall power, but are always there to light your face and awaken your desire to explore the next lake and hidden corners for taking a rest.
Unfortunately, we cannot celebrate our Park’s 71st birthday as we usually did – with a promotional week during the Easter Week, but we will hold it as soon as the opportunity allows.
For now, stay home and safeguard your health and that of your loved ones, because staying home will also protect the health of those you are separated from. Let us all show that we care for each other’s safety and well being, and let the currents of hope and good feelings do not cease to flow.
Plitvice lakes are waiting for you. Until meeting you, they are resting and murmuring quietly.
Happy birthday to our beloved Park!
