The great potential of this area is the reason why it recently became the third UNESCO Geopark in the Republic of Croatia. This geopark stretches across the majestic Biokovo Mountain
Geopark Biokovo-Imotski Lakes is an area of exceptional cultural, rich historical and natural heritage that includes a great diversity of habitats, species of plants and animals, but also geological diversity represented in numerous geological formations created in different periods of the Earth’s past. The great potential of this area is the reason why Geopark Biokovo-Imotski Lakes recently became the third UNESCO Geopark in the Republic of Croatia. Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark is located in the southern part of Croatia, between the mountain of Biokovo and the town of Imotski. This geopark stretches across the majestic Biokovo Mountain, whose highest peak, Sveti Jure, is 1762 metres above sea level, as well as two stunning karst lakes, the Blue Lake and the Red Lake, unique in all of Europe.
The mystical Red Lake, surrounded by towering cliffs, is a place that can make you believe that nature itself poured its red hue into this abyss. In contrast, the serene Blue Lake stands as one of the largest karst lakes in Europe. Its shimmering surface boasts a delicate blue, a colour caused by the depth of its water and the play of light reflecting off the surrounding cliffs.
When the Blue Lake’s waters recede, its bottom becomes the venue of the most singular football match in the world. The opposing teams, known as the ‘Werewolves’ and the ‘Elves’, have upheld this remarkable tradition since 1943. Fans of the ‘beautiful game’ will also be delighted to know that the football stadium of Gospin Dolac has been declared in numerous surveys as one of the most wondrous sports arenas in the world, owing to its unique position near the Blue Lake and the Topana Fortress. The town of Imotski, located by the lakes, is teeming with historical monuments and traditional architecture, such as medieval tombstones, wells, and the archaeological site of Crkvina. There is also the Basilica of Zmijavci, the Topana Fortress mentioned above, the popular promenade of Pjaca Street, the Church of St Francis, and the Benzon House built in the secessionist style.
Imotski is a host to many festivals and events throughout the year that will make your experience all the richer, such as the only festival of mandolin music in Croatia, the ‘Mandolina Imota’, or the cultural and art event ‘Imotska sila’ that begins every year on 4 July, on the birthday of the great poet from Imotski, Tin Ujević.
