Lokrum Island

Lokrum Island, located just 600 meters off the coast of Dubrovnik, is a natural and historical paradise that attracts thousands of visitors every year. This island, easily accessible by a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s old port, offers a fascinating mix of natural beauty, rich history, and intriguing legends. The history of Lokrum officially begins in 1023, when Benedictine monks founded a monastery on the island. According to legend, Richard the Lionheart found refuge on the island in 1192 after being shipwrecked on his way back from the Third Crusade. In gratitude for his salvation, he promised to build a church on the island, although he ultimately built it in Dubrovnik at the request of the citizens. The island carries a legend of curses. It is said that the Benedictine monks, forced to leave Lokrum in the 15th century, cursed anyone who tried to take possession of the island for their own pleasure. This tale intertwines with the tragedies that befell the family of Archduke Maximilian of Austria, who purchased the island in 1859 and built a magnificent villa with exotic gardens. After Maximilian’s execution in Mexico, his wife Carlotta went mad, and further tragedies followed in the family, contributing to the strengthening of the curse legend. Today, Lokrum is a protected area and a special nature reserve, famous for its lush vegetation and animal species, including peacocks introduced by Maximilian himself. Visitors can explore the botanical garden, founded in the 19th century, which houses over 500 plant species from around the world. This garden offers a wonderful contrast with the native Mediterranean flora, including holm oaks, pines, cypresses, and olive trees. Another main attraction is the Benedictine Monastery, whose ruins tell stories of centuries past. Part of the monastery has been transformed into a restaurant, while another part serves as a museum. Visitors can stroll among the monastery ruins and admire the architectural beauty of the Romanesque-Gothic remains, which include a three-nave basilica and a cloister. Lokrum is also known for its “Dead Sea,” a small saltwater lake on the island, ideal for swimming and relaxing. The high salinity of the lake allows bathers to easily float, offering a unique and refreshing experience. The rocky beaches of the island and the natural pools along the coast are perfect for those seeking some tranquility away from the crowded mainland beaches. For hiking enthusiasts, Lokrum offers trails winding through oak and pine forests, with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. One point of interest is Fort Royal, a fortress built by the French in 1806 and later expanded by the Austrians. Located on the highest hill of the island, Fort Royal offers a panoramic view of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands, making it a must-see excursion for visitors to Lokrum. In recent years, the island has gained further fame thanks to the TV series “Game of Thrones,” which used Lokrum as a location to represent the city of Qarth. This has attracted many fans of the series, who visit the island to see the filming locations and immerse themselves in the fantastic atmosphere recreated by the set designers. Lokrum is easily accessible with frequent ferries departing from Dubrovnik’s old port. The journey takes only about 15 minutes, and visitors can enjoy the view of Dubrovnik’s historic walls and the crystal-clear sea along the way. For the more adventurous, it is also possible to reach the island by kayak, offering a unique perspective of the coastal landscape.