Palagruža, Remote archipelago in Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia
Palagruža is an archipelago in the Adriatic off the coast of Split-Dalmatia, made up of several small islands with steep rocky shores. The landscape is defined by cliffs that rise up to 92 meters (302 feet) above the sea.
Archaeological finds show that people lived here as far back as Neolithic times, with traces of ancient Greek pottery scattered across the islands. In the 12th century, Pope Alexander III visited the archipelago during his travels.
The name comes from Ancient Greek 'Pelagousae', meaning 'sea', showing how maritime traditions shaped these islands. Visitors can still sense how the ocean has always been central to life here.
The islands can only be reached by private boat from Lastovo, Korčula, or Vis, as no public transport services operate here. Visitors should prepare for isolated conditions and plan accordingly.
A lighthouse built in 1875 stands on the islands and now runs entirely on solar power. Visitors can stay overnight there and experience what it feels like to be in such a remote Mediterranean location.
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