The Mljet National Park, a gem on the Adriatic island of Mljet, marked its 64th anniversary yesterday on November 11, celebrating its rich natural beauty and cultural heritage. Declared a national park in 1960, Mljet is renowned as the Mediterranean’s oldest marine park, spanning nearly 5,300 hectares, including a 500-metre marine zone and a landscape dotted with islets, cliffs, and reefs.

The park’s historical legacy includes remnants from the Illyrian tribes, the Roman Empire, and the Republic of Dubrovnik. Notable sites are the Roman palace ruins in Polače and the Benedictine monastery on the island of St. Mary, located in the park’s famed Great Lake.

This year’s anniversary emphasizes the importance of preserving Mljet’s two saltwater lakes and its lush, forested ecosystem of holm oaks and Aleppo pines. Park representatives also highlighted sustainable tourism as a way to honor the area’s heritage and encourage respectful interaction with nature.

“Mljet National Park is a symbol of Croatia’s commitment to natural heritage,” said park officials, who extended thanks to those who have supported its conservation efforts since 1960. They encouraged all visitors to continue being responsible stewards of this unique environment, a legacy preserved by the island’s residents through centuries of mindful resource use.