The Kornati archipelago
The Kornati archipelago is one of the most fascinating places in the Adriatic, where 147 islands and islets create a real paradise for nature and history lovers. In the heart of this archipelago is the largest island, Kornati, whose history dates back to ancient times.
The island of Kornati, 25.2 kilometers long and 100 to 2,400 meters wide, is the pearl of the archipelago. From a bird’s eye view, these numerous islands and islets look like fresh pearls scattered on the glass floor of the Adriatic Sea. It is not only a picturesque landscape, but also a place rich in history and legends.
The Kornati archipelago was formed at the end of the Ice Age, and its first inhabitants were members of the Illyrian Liburni tribe. Legend has it that the gods created Kornati from tears and stars, gifting it with a glowing blue that soothes the sea. This mystical aura gives the archipelago a unique character.
In the 6th century, two buildings were built on the island of Kornati, which constitute an important part of human history. The Tureta fortress, located on a hill, served to supervise the shipping routes running through the Kornati Channel. The second important structure is the Church of Saint Mary, a witness to the long history of the island.
Kornati National Park includes 89 islands and cliffs, constituting a unique natural environment. It is the only national park whose entire area is privately owned. It was introduced in 1980 to protect this beautiful area from the increasing number of tourists.
At the center of life on the island of Kornati is the Vrulje bay, considered the heart and capital of the archipelago. About sixty houses, where the owners stay during the olive harvest, create a cozy community. Restaurants and taverns serve tasty dishes, including seafood and traditional Kornat lamb.
Although the island of Kornati may seem like a desert, it is full of life. There are 537 species of plants there, and this number is still growing, as is the number of animals, including the mysterious marten. A visit to Kornati is a chance to admire the picturesque landscape, from steep cliffs to the underwater world of the „crown”.
A tour of Kornati is also a journey through its rich cultural heritage, with the ruins of a Venetian castle, Fort Tureta, a basilica from early Christianity, and the underwater remains of a salt factory. You cannot forget about seeing the „crown” – steep cliffs overlooking the open sea.
The famous Irish poet, Bernard Shaw, after his stay on the Kornati archipelago, expressed his delight with the words: „On the last day of creation, God wanted to crown his work, so he created Kornati out of tears, stars and breath.” These words reflect the magic and uniqueness of this place, which leaves unforgettable impressions on everyone who has the pleasure of visiting it.
