studentsineurope

Croatian National Park on Sale?

The gorgeous Brijuni islands

Hard economic times are affecting countries all over the world, and desperate measures are being taken to ensure these economies don’t collapse. This summer we’ve already seen the closure of an astounding number of state parks around the United States, with California being the hardest hit. Now there are reports that in Croatia, a famed national park will actually be going up for sale, and all for the practical price of 2.5 billion euros!

According to a report in the British newspaper, The Independent, “Hard-up” Croatia is selling the islands along with railways, and parts of the energy sector. However, in the Croatian Exclusive Magazine, the statement is being refuted by the Croatian president Sipe Mesic, who says it is not possible to sell the islands “because they are a national park.”

Brijuni National Park is a cluster of fourteen small islands situated off the coast of the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia. Once a summer resort established in the 19^th century by the wealthy Viennese businessman Paul Kupelwieser, the islands found themselves a trendy vacation spot for Austria’s elite. After World War I they were acquired by the Italian state, then later – after World War II – officially became part of Yugoslavia. Not long after, Veli Brijuni, the largest of the islands, became the summer residence of President Tito of Yugoslavia, an estate that found itself habitually frequented by both film stars and heads of state alike. Remaining privately owned until after his death, the islands became a national park and an extremely popular summer destination for tourists and locals alike.

Considering their history, I suppose it is not far fetched to imagine these islands once again in the hands of a private owner. However, it is saddening to think that many tourists may soon miss out on the opportunity to visit these islands.  Home to over 200 dinosaur footprints, ruins of Roman villas, and a large animal world, these islands have an amazing history, and even more incredible beauty.

Surrounded by the crystal clear water of the Adriatic, these luscious green islands are not something you will soon forget. Although neither report can be confirmed, I count my blessings that I was fortunate enough to visit these amazing islands while I had the chance.