History of Paklenica

The Velebit mountains, and especially the region of the Paklenica National Park, have always been known among mountaineers. Some sought their sporting challenge here; others published scientific writings on the animal and plant world, on the climate in this mountain landscape near the coast or on the geomorphological processes that shaped the unique panorama. Yet only in the year 1928 was the gorge declared a national park, and in the following year this status was not confirmed again. Right into the 1990s the protected area comprised a mere 36.5 square kilometres, which has however by now been extended to its present form. Today two gorges and a large part of the hinterland belong to the 102 square kilometre nature park. Thus since 1997 it has been ensured that the steep walls up to 400 metres high, the fertile woodland areas and the unique panorama are preserved in all their beauty for future generations too.