Plitvice Lakes National Park

The National Park Plitvice Lakes - A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Croatia

The National Park Plitvice Lakes is a stunning natural wonder located in the heart of Croatia. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 and has been attracting visitors from all over the world ever since. The park is known for its breathtakingly beautiful lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush green forests. It is truly a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The park is spread over an area of 296.85 square kilometers and is home to 16 interconnected lakes, making it the largest national park in Croatia. These lakes are known for their distinctive colors that range from azure blue to emerald green, depending on the mineral content and the angle of sunlight. The lakes are divided into the Upper Lakes and Lower Lakes, each with its own unique charm.

The history of the National Park Plitvice Lakes can be traced back to the 19th century when it was discovered by the Croatian explorer Josip Jelacic. However, it was not until the 1940s that the park gained popularity and was declared a national park in 1949. During the Croatian War of Independence, the park was heavily damaged, but extensive restoration efforts were made to bring it back to its former glory.

One of the highlights of the park is the stunning Plitvice Waterfalls, which are formed by the merging of the lakes. The most famous among them is the Great Waterfall, which stands at a height of 78 meters. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by taking a boat ride on the lakes, offering a unique perspective and a closer look at the crystal-clear waters and diverse flora and fauna.

The National Park Plitvice Lakes is not just a natural wonder, but it also holds immense cultural and historical value. The park is home to some of the oldest settlements in Croatia, dating back to the Neolithic period. It has also served as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including the popular series "Game of Thrones".

If you are planning to visit this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, make sure to take the time to explore the nearby towns and villages, which offer a glimpse into the traditional Croatian way of life. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the weather is pleasant, and the lakes are at their most vibrant.

Further Links:

• Plitvice Lakes National Park on Wikipedia
• National Park on Wikipedia
• UNESCO World Heritage Site on Wikipedia

The waters flowing over the limestone and chalk have, over thousands of years, deposited travertine barriers, creating natural dams which in turn have created a series of beautiful lakes, caves and waterfalls. These geological processes continue today. The forests in the park are home to bears, wolves and many rare bird species.