Lastovo Islands Nature Park
PUBLIC INSTITUTION
- MEMBER OF THE GROUP
PI Lastovo Islands Nature Park
The Lastovo Islands Nature Park Public Institution manages one of the protected areas of the Adriatic, declared a nature park in 2006. The park encompasses 46 islands, islets, rocks and reefs, including the islands of Lastovo and Sušac, with a total area of 196 km² (143 km² of sea and 53 km² of land).
The Lastovo Islands area is known for its exceptional biodiversity, which is reflected in a large number of plant and animal species, both on land and in the sea. In the sea, we record numerous species of fish, shellfish, crustaceans and mollusks, and especially the Posidonia oceanica meadows, which cover a large part of the seabed and represent a habitat for many species and are a natural indicator of the cleanliness of the sea.
On land, diverse forest and grassland communities have been preserved, as well as several endemic plant species that can only be found in this part of the Adriatic. The archipelago is also an important habitat for numerous bird species, including endangered and protected species, which makes it extremely important for ornithological research and bird protection.
The sky above the Lastovo archipelago is one of the darkest in Europe, with a very low level of light pollution, which provides a mesmerizing view of the Milky Way and thousands of stars, and also has a beneficial effect on the flora and fauna that live in accordance with natural biorhythms.
In addition to its exceptional natural value, the Park also has significant cultural and historical heritage. The islands are home to numerous archaeological sites from different historical periods - from Illyrian and Roman remains to medieval churches and fortresses. Of particular value are stone houses with traditional "fumari" - characteristic chimneys that have become the protective symbol of Lastovo, and specific rural architecture, which testifies to life in harmony with nature. Preserved customs, such as the "Lastovo Carnival", further enrich the cultural identity of this area.
It is precisely this inextricable connection between natural beauty and traditional lifestyle that makes the Lastovo archipelago one of the last authentic parts of the Mediterranean.