Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark included on list of UNESCO Global Geoparks

The Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark has been included on the list of UNESCO Global Geoparks as Croatia's third geopark added to the list after Papuk and the Vis Archipelago, the Croatian Tourism Board (HTZ) announced on Friday.

"Croatia is globally recognised as a tourist destination with exceptionally preserved nature, which is further confirmed by the news of a third geopark being inscribed on the UNESCO list. Natural resources are the most important thing any country has, and we can be proud of the wealth of our flora and fauna and the preservation of areas many of which are intact," HTZ Director Kristjan Staničić said.

Ivana Ćapin, Executive Director of the Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark, said: "This is a great reward for all of us and for our commitment. It is also a great motivation to us to continue our work because it opens up new opportunities for the whole area around Imotski."

The Mayor of Imotski, Ivan Budalić, announced the construction of a visitors' centre as part of the park, while the Director of the Imotski Tourism Board, Luka Kolovrat, said that the UNESCO designation would increase the visibility of this destination and help create conditions for the development of geotourism.

"The Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark provides many benefits and opportunities for the development of this entire region, including the development of agriculture, hospitality services and cooperation with other parks and partners," Kolovrat said.

(Hina/FaH)

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