Lokrum

As you walk through the island's vegetation, you enter the botanical garden - the result of a century-long development of horticultural tradition. The botanical garden was founded in 1959 as a scientific research project of the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts, with the aim of studying the adaptation of tropical and subtropical plants to the Mediterranean climate. The garden covers an area of about two hectares and is a combination of natural vegetation and introduced exotic plant species. You will immediately notice the impressive collection of eucalyptus trees - this place is home to the largest collection of these trees outside their native continent of Australia, with about 70 different species. This collection is a long-standing effort by botanists and gardeners to preserve plants that were brought from different parts of the world. In addition to eucalyptus, the garden is rich in cacti, succulents, agaves and palm trees. The history of the botanical garden is deeply connected to the Benedictine monastery of St. Mary, whose monks began growing various plants on the island in the 11th century. During the 19th century, the Austrian Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg further expanded and refined the gardens around his summer residence, bringing exotic plants from all over the world. His gardening work is still visible today in the arrangement of plants and landscaping, which was documented in detail by the famous botanist Roberto de Visiani during his stay on the island in 1863. In the garden, paths can be followed that lead through different plant groups, organized mainly by family, which allows for a systematic approach to study and education. Information boards next to the plants provide information on their origin, characteristics and adaptation to local conditions. Such an approach allows visitors to understand how these species managed to survive and develop in the Mediterranean environment, but also what their ecological roles are. During the Homeland War, the botanical garden suffered significant damage - about 20% of plant species were destroyed due to shelling, and expert documentation was also lost. Despite this, the garden was renovated and today has around 600 plant species, which is a significant decrease compared to before the war when there were over 1200, but it still represents one of the richest collections of exotic plants in this part of Europe.

Located just 600 meters from the port of Dubrovnik, Lokrum is an island with a history spanning over a thousand years and hiding something unexpected at every turn. The first archaeological traces on Lokrum date back to the 6th and 5th centuries BC, and over the centuries the island has been inhabited by Romans, medieval orders and powerful dynasties. The name Lokrum comes from the Latin word acrumen, meaning sour fruit – lemons and oranges still grow on the island today. In 1023, the Archbishop of Dubrovnik Vital and the city’s prior Lampredije donated the island to the Benedictines, who built the Abbey of St. Mary here. This monastery soon became a center of spiritual and cultural life, and the Benedictines remained on Lokrum for almost eight centuries. During this period, the abbey developed in the Gothic-Renaissance style, and the cloister with its rich capitals and bifora testifies to the high level of architecture of that time. The great earthquake of 1667 severely damaged the monastery, and the Benedictine period ended in 1798 with the expulsion of the monks and the sale of the island to private individuals. One of the most famous stories related to Lokrum is that of the English king Richard the Lionheart. In 1192, while returning from a crusade, he landed on Lokrum due to a storm. In gratitude for his rescue, he promised to build a church, but the people of Dubrovnik persuaded him to invest the funds in the city cathedral, so Lokrum never got that church. After the Benedictines left, the island passed into the hands of Dubrovnik nobles. However, the story of the "Lokrum curse" soon spread: the first owners after the Benedictines suffered tragic fates - one fell from the third floor, another drowned, and a third committed suicide. Legend has it that the Benedictines, who were expelled from the island, walked around Lokrum three times the night before they left with candles turned upside down and uttered a curse: "Whoever takes Lokrum for their own pleasure will be cursed!" This story still intrigues visitors today, and locals will tell you that no one wants to spend the night on the island. In the 19th century, Lokrum became the property of the Habsburgs. Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg built a summer residence and arranged a botanical garden with exotic plants from all over the world. Interestingly, the peacocks that now roam freely on the island were brought by Maximilian himself. After World War I, the island was used as a children's convalescence center, and in the mid-20th century, it was taken over by the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, which established a biological institute and a natural history museum here. Today, Lokrum is a protected nature reserve under UNESCO, known for its botanical garden with more than 800 species of plants, rocky beaches, the remains of a Benedictine abbey and a diverse fauna - as many as 156 species of birds live on the island. A special attraction is the "Dead Sea", a small salt lake connected to the open sea by an underwater tunnel, ideal for swimming for both children and adults. For fans of the series, Lokrum is also known as a filming location from "Game of Thrones", where the mystical city of Qarth was filmed. And one more thing: there is a FKK beach on the southern part of the island, so if you like surprises, you know where to turn.

Betina Cave is located along the Dubrovnik coast, between Villa Šeherezade and Gjivovići Beach. It can only be reached by sea, which gives it a sense of isolation and peace. There is no pedestrian access, so there are no crowds here, and nature seems to have remained untouched. The departure usually starts from Gjivovići Beach, from where visitors swim, kayak or arrive by small boats. There are also organized guided tours for those who want a safer arrival. Inside the cave there is a small pebble beach, surrounded by high rocks. The sea is exceptionally clean and ideal for swimming and diving. The cave was named after the Dubrovnik scientist Marin Getaldić, known as Bete, who conducted optical experiments here. This makes this place interesting not only for its appearance, but also for its connection to the history of science. International recognition came from the French edition of Vogue, which included Betina Cave among the most beautiful Croatian beaches. It was presented as the perfect place for those who want peace and an authentic Adriatic experience. The kayaking route is particularly attractive as it takes you along the city walls and the island of Lokrum. In the afternoon, the cave offers shade, making it pleasant for longer stays. The acoustic effect inside the cave is also interesting – every sound echoes clearly and differently, which further enhances the experience.

In the heart of the small port of Portoč, right next to the main pier on the island of Lokrum, stands the Forester's House – a 19th-century building that was once the home and workplace of the forester, the keeper of the forest and the island's natural resources. This house was built during the reign of the Austrian Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg, and at that time it was a key facility for the management and maintenance of the forest area, which was carefully landscaped and improved. The forester, the forest guard, was responsible for the supervision, protection and management of the forests, took care of natural resources, maintained the trails and watched over the use of the forest. He played a particularly important role on Lokrum, especially when the island was a botanical garden and an aristocratic residence. The Forester's House was not just a modest place to live – it was also the center of supervision and organization of work on the island. Located next to the small port, it provided quick access to the mainland and supervision of everything that was happening on the island. After serving its original purpose for decades, the house was completely renovated in 2011 and transformed into an information, promotional and educational center for visitors to the Lokrum Reserve. Today, the Forester's House is the first stop for every visitor - here you can learn all about the history, natural beauty and sights of the island. Interesting fact: The Forester's House now also serves as an exhibition space, and you can see old tools and photographs that show what the life of a forester on Lokrum was like. Lokrum Island has also had the status of a special forest vegetation reserve since 1948, making it one of the oldest protected areas in Croatia.

The Stations of the Cross on Lokrum are located in a wooded part of the island and connect the monastery complex with the natural surroundings. It was built in the 18th century and consists of 14 stations that trace Jesus' journey to Golgotha. Today it still serves as a place for prayer, walking and quiet reflection. The path passes through dense Mediterranean vegetation, along with stone chapels and crosses made of local stone. Each station depicts a scene from the last moments of Jesus' life, most often in the form of reliefs or statues. The Benedictines, who lived and worked on the island at the time, used this path for their rituals and processions. Over the years, the Stations of the Cross have been restored and preserved, thus retaining its spiritual and cultural value. Visitors can escape the city rhythm and spend time in silence here. In addition to the spiritual content, the walk also provides a glimpse of the wealth of plants and animals that inhabit Lokrum. Along the path there are information boards that explain each station and the historical context of the entire complex.

On one side, you have the western wing of the monastery, once home to a mill, and on the other, the partially preserved eastern wing. At the entrance to the cloister, the inscription immediately catches your eye: “With harmony, small things grow, with discord, even the greatest fall apart” – a reminder of the wisdom of the Benedictines, who lived here for centuries. In front of you stands the Monastery of St. Mary, founded in 1023, making it one of the oldest Benedictine monasteries on the Adriatic. After its foundation, the Benedictines soon became the owners of the entire island. Lokrum was then the center of spiritual, cultural and economic life. The monastery was surrounded by vineyards, gardens, olive groves and parks, and the monks were known for their excellent agriculture. During the 12th century, the complex was expanded with a three-nave, three-apse church, and later it also received a Renaissance cloister – one of the most important examples of monastic architecture in the region. The western wing with the mill has been preserved from the Romanesque monastery, while the eastern wing is partially preserved. The great earthquake of 1667 severely damaged the complex, and the Benedictines left the island in 1798 after the Dubrovnik Republic sold Lokrum to wealthy citizens, with the approval of the Holy See. The departure of the Benedictines was not without consequences - according to legend, on their last night on the island, they walked around Lokrum in black robes three times with upside-down candles, leaving a trail of wax and uttering the curse: "Cursed be anyone who appropriates Lokrum for personal enjoyment!". This story of the "Lokrum curse" still intrigues visitors today. Today, the ruins of the monastery and church, along with later additions and gardens, are an essential stop for any visitor to Lokrum. The complex includes the remains of a medieval abbey, a Gothic-Renaissance cloister, outbuildings and gardens that shaped the island's landscape. In the 19th century, the Austrian Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg built a summer residence within the monastery and landscaped the lush gardens, bringing exotic plant species from all over the world – today, more than 500 plant species grow here, with a particularly notable collection of cacti and succulents. Maximilian also designed a rainwater harvesting system, and the oval Charlotte's Well was used for watering exotic plants and even for bathing guests. Lokrum is now a protected nature reserve, and in addition to its history and architecture, the island hides another interesting fact: 11 species of bats live in such a small area, which is unique in Croatia.

In one of the most special parts of the island of Lokrum, where history and nature intertwine at every turn, stands a residence that changed the face of the island in the 19th century. The Benedictines had been creating a spiritual and cultural center here for centuries, but the arrival of the Austrian Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg in 1859 opened a completely new chapter. Maximilian, brother of Emperor Franz Joseph, was known for his love of nature and botanical experiments. He not only renovated the old Benedictine monastery and built a summer house in the then rare neo-Gothic style, but also turned the entire island into a kind of garden laboratory. In collaboration with the famous botanist Roberto Visiani from Padua, Maximilian brought more than 500 plant species to Lokrum from all over the world – from palms and agaves to eucalyptus and cacti, creating an unusual combination of Mediterranean and tropical flora. What many people don't know is that Maximilian also brought the first peacocks to the island, which are descendants of birds from the Canary Islands and still roam Lokrum today as its most colorful inhabitants. In addition, he designed a rainwater collection system and special reservoirs, such as the oval "Charlotte's Well", which were used to water exotic plants, but also as a place for guests to bathe. Maximilian's vision was for Lokrum to become a place of enjoyment, exploration and escape from everyday life. Although his stay was short-lived due to his tragic fate in Mexico, the island retained his mark. After his death, the owners changed, and Lokrum served as an educational center, a children's health resort and a scientific institute throughout the 20th century. One of the most interesting, but also the darkest stories is related to the legend of the curse of Lokrum. According to legend, the Benedictines, expelled from the island, went around Lokrum in procession the night before their departure, leaving a trail of wax and pronouncing a curse against anyone who would claim the island for themselves. Interestingly, many of the later owners, including Maximilian, met with tragic fates, which further enhanced the island’s mystique. Today, Maximilian’s residence and gardens are part of a protected reserve, open to anyone who wants to experience the blend of history, architecture and natural beauty – and perhaps encounter a peacock or two, descendants of Maximilian’s first exotic guests.

You are in the heart of the island, where the Visitor Center and Natural History Museum are located – a place that provides a detailed insight into the rich history and nature of this protected reserve. The Visitor Center acts as a starting point for anyone who wants to explore. Here you will find information panels, interactive maps and multimedia content that explain in detail the geological formation of the island, its flora and fauna, and historical layers that stretch from antiquity to the modern era. Special emphasis is placed on information about the Benedictine monastery, Maximilian's summer residence, as well as the role of Lokrum during the Homeland War. The Natural History Museum, which is part of the center, exhibits numerous specimens of indigenous flora and fauna, including rare and protected species found only in this area of the Adriatic. The exhibition includes details about the botanical garden, which was landscaped back in the 19th century, with a special emphasis on exotic plants brought by the Austrian Archduke Maximilian. Cacti, agaves, palms and other species are clearly identified, and information about their origin and adaptation to the island's conditions is displayed next to them. The museum also displays a rich fauna - from migratory birds that use the island as a habitat during migration, to reptiles and insects, to marine organisms in the surrounding bays. Special attention is paid to the protection and preservation of these species, as well as educating visitors about the importance of nature reserves. The center's premises are equipped with modern technologies, including audio-visual presentations and interactive screens, which allows you to gain knowledge about all aspects of the island through various media. In addition to permanent exhibitions, the center periodically organizes thematic exhibitions, workshops and lectures that deal with specific segments of Lokrum's natural and cultural heritage. The center's staff is available to answer questions and provide expert advice, which further facilitates the planning of independent research.

You are on the site of the former Benedictine monastery on Lokrum, where today a visitor center and an exhibition about the filming of the series "Game of Thrones" attract many fans. Lokrum served as a backdrop for the city of Qarth, and you will easily recognize the botanical garden and monastery in the scenes with Daenerys Targaryen and Xara Xhoan Daxos. A special place is occupied by a replica of the Iron Throne, a gift from HBO to Dubrovnik - you can take a photo on it and become a part of Westeros for a moment. The exhibition is not a classic museum, but a multimedia space with videos of actors and crew members sharing their experiences from filming in Dubrovnik and the surrounding area. An interactive map of all filming locations in Croatia helps you connect scenes from the series with the real places and discover production challenges. Admission is free for everyone who comes to the island, and after the exhibition you can walk through the botanical garden, explore the rocky beaches or enjoy the forest trails.

Nearby, you will find an attraction that attracts all fans of fantasy worlds – a replica of the Iron Throne from the series "Game of Thrones". This famous symbol of power, which was the center of numerous conflicts in the series, can now be seen and experienced in person in the premises of the former Benedictine monastery on the island of Lokrum. The Iron Throne, made up of many swords, represented the throne of the kings of Westeros in the series. On Lokrum, visitors have the opportunity to sit on the throne and briefly feel what it means to be in the place where fateful decisions were made. In addition to the throne, in the Visitor Center you can see exhibitions that reveal how scenes were filmed in Croatia, especially in Dubrovnik and on Lokrum, and how the sets and costumes were created. Lokrum was chosen as an ideal location for filming parts of the series due to its natural beauty and historical buildings. The Benedictine monastery, Fort Royal and the island's lush vegetation served as the backdrop for the mystical city of Qarth, important in the story of Daenerys Targaryen. Interestingly, Lokrum is one of the few places where visitors could see the film crew in action, and local guides often tell anecdotes from the filming that are not known to the general public. This attraction has further solidified Dubrovnik and the surrounding area as a popular film destination, known for its authentic locations that attract filmmakers and tourists from all over the world. A visit to the Iron Throne on Lokrum is not only an opportunity to take photos, but also to discover how a small island in the Adriatic became part of a global story that has captivated millions of viewers.

One of the most authentic parts of Lokrum is certainly the traditional olive grove that stretches along the southern slopes of the island, right next to the remains of the Benedictine monastery. The olive grove on Lokrum consists of centuries-old olive trees, including some specimens that are several centuries old, which confirms the continuous cultivation of this crop on the island. Thick, twisted trunks and wide crowns create a recognizable visual identity of the Mediterranean landscape. The soil is rocky and well-drained, which is optimal for the growth of olives, and the olive groves also serve as natural protection of the soil from erosion. Historically, the olive grove was an integral part of the monastery economy. The Benedictines used olive oil for food, religious ceremonies, soap production, but also as a trade commodity. After their departure, olive growing remained a key economic activity on the island, and the olive groves have been maintained and developed to this day. Within the olive grove, the remains of stone terraces and dry stone walls, typical of Mediterranean agriculture on uneven terrain, are visible. These dry stone walls serve to preserve the soil and enable the cultivation of steep slopes, and today they are protected as a valuable part of the cultural heritage. Their construction testifies to the long-standing skill and adaptation of the islanders to the demanding natural conditions. Today, the olive grove is part of a protected nature reserve, and its maintenance and revitalization are part of a program to preserve traditional agricultural practices. Recently, activities have been carried out to plant new trees and rehabilitate existing ones, with an emphasis on preserving indigenous olive varieties and encouraging sustainable tourism. The olive grove on Lokrum also plays an important ecological role, providing a habitat for numerous species of birds, insects and other organisms. The preservation of the olive grove contributes to the maintenance of the island's biodiversity and connects the natural and cultural heritage in a unique Mediterranean landscape.

The Garden of Eden, or the Botanical Garden of Lokrum, was created on the site of a monastery garden of the Benedictines, who had been cultivating it here since the 11th century. Although it was used for medicinal herbs and food, the monks actually planted the foundations of the first modern garden as we know it today. When the Benedictines left in the early 19th century, the island changed hands several times, but the garden really flourished thanks to the English Count Gilbert. He brought exotic plants from all over the world and transformed the garden into an English landscape - which contributed to the diversity that still fascinates today. But did you know that Lokrum was also a favorite destination of Austrian archdukes, and that it was briefly the imperial residence island? Today, the Garden of Eden is a botanical treasure trove with over 200 plant species - from local rosemary, lavender and olives, to exotic cacti, agaves and palm trees. The agaves are particularly impressive, as in some parts they have grown to the size of small trees. There are also old olive groves, paths to hidden corners, benches for resting and stone fountains – everything you need to enjoy the peace. But the garden is also home to a special legend – the story of the love flower. They say that the Benedictines grew a magical plant in the garden that could connect two hearts forever. The story goes that the young man Marko found this mysterious flower in the moonlight, wished for love for Ana, and the next morning she found the same flower on her window. Their bond became stronger than ever, and legend has it that the Love Flower still grows somewhere here – whoever finds it will experience love for a lifetime. If you want to know something else interesting – Lokrum is also famous for its wild peacocks, which freely walk around the island and often linger right near the Garden of Eden. So, in addition to plants and legend, a bit of exotic wilderness awaits you here!

The natural salt lagoon near you, known as the Dead Sea on the island of Lokrum, is one of the most unusual places to swim in the entire Dubrovnik archipelago. You won’t find a classic beach here – it’s a small, enclosed cove where the water is so salty that you’ll float on the surface without any effort. The salinity is up to twice that of the Adriatic, making this lagoon a real natural swimming pool for anyone who wants to try something different. The water in the lagoon barely exchanges with the open sea, so swimming here is a special experience, and due to its shallowness, it’s safe for children. The rocky platforms and rocks around the lagoon are ideal for sunbathing and resting after swimming. Interestingly, the Dead Sea has been known to locals for centuries, but it has only recently become popular among tourists due to its unusual nature. Ecologically, this lagoon is very sensitive – the high salt concentration limits the diversity of marine life, but the surrounding areas are rich in Mediterranean plants and animals. The island of Lokrum itself is protected as a nature reserve, so special attention is paid here to the balance between nature conservation and tourist activities.

Buža on Lokrum is a natural stone arch located on the southern cliffs of the island, not far from the Dead Sea. It is known for its small natural pool filled with seawater, located directly below the stone arch. Through the open arch, a direct view of the sea is offered, which makes this location unique and visually striking. Buža can be reached by walking along the rocks on the western side of the island, and the nearest reference point is the Dead Sea. This location is not marked on official tourist maps, but it is increasingly popular among visitors who want to discover authentic and less accessible natural attractions. Buža is not a well-maintained beach or official bathing area. Access can be demanding due to the rocky terrain and exposure to the open sea, so extra caution is recommended. The location is suitable for short stays and photography. It is particularly interesting for its natural forms and views of the Adriatic Sea, and among connoisseurs and lovers of Lokrum it is recognized as an unavoidable hidden spot worth discovering.

You have arrived at Freikörperkultur, the most famous nudist beach that has been synonymous with freedom, relaxation and a return to nature for decades. Located on the southern side of the island, this beach is surrounded by untouched nature, crystal clear sea and the scent of Mediterranean herbs, providing the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The name of the FKK beach on Lokrum comes from the German expression "Freikörperkultur", which means "free body culture". The FKK beach on Lokrum is not only a place for swimming and sunbathing, but also a space where you can feel the spirit of tolerance and respect for nature and the human body. Here, nudism is accepted as a way of life, which allows for complete freedom and harmony with the environment. Although the beach is officially intended for nudists, many visitors come just to enjoy the beauty of the untouched coast, pebble coves and warm sea. It is surrounded by rocky cliffs and dense Mediterranean vegetation, and the sea here is especially clear and warm. Walking along the coast, you will easily find your own corner for relaxation – whether it is a small cove with soft pebbles or rocks where you can lie down and soak up the sun. The sound of the waves and the chirping of birds further enhance the feeling of peace and connection with nature. The story goes that this beach was once a favorite place for local fishermen who found shelter here from winds and storms. It was said that in this place the sea and the land are in a special harmony, and that anyone who frees themselves from all shackles here and surrenders to nature experiences a kind of spiritual cleansing and renewal. Today, this tradition of freedom and return to nature lives on through the practice of nudism on the FKK beach, which attracts people from all over the world.

The Pigeon Cave is one of the lesser-known, but extremely interesting natural formations of this reserve. It combines geological, historical and cultural layers of the island. The cave is a natural phenomenon created by long-term erosion processes of limestone rocks that dominate this part of the Adriatic. The interior of the cave is characterized by narrow passages, low ceilings and interesting limestone formations that testify to the geological past of the island, while its name is associated with the colonies of pigeons that have used the cave as a nest and habitat for centuries. The local population used it as a shelter and food storage, especially in times of war or during adverse weather conditions. Archaeological finds in the area indicate the presence of people in prehistoric times, which confirms the long-standing importance of this area as a refuge and shelter. Access to it is limited in order to preserve the sensitive natural and cultural heritage. Geologically, Golubova špilja was formed by karst processes, typical of the Adriatic coast, where water and wind shape limestone rocks, creating underground cavities and passages. Such caves often serve as habitats for various species of bats and birds, and Golubova špilja was named after the colonies of pigeons that nested here.

You are at the highest point of the island, where an imposing fortress, also known as Fort Royal, rises. This star-shaped fortress began construction in 1806 on the orders of Napoleon's general Auguste Marmont, and was completed during the Austrian administration around 1835. It was built with the aim of protecting the entrance to the Dubrovnik harbor, as Lokrum is a strategically important island that controls the approach to the city. Before the construction of the fortress, the Republic of Dubrovnik did not build fortifications on Lokrum, fearing that if they fell into enemy hands, they would endanger the entire city and harbor. It was not until the arrival of the French in the early 19th century that this doctrine changed, and Fort Royal was built as a strong military fortress. From this place, there is a magnificent view of Dubrovnik, Cavtat and the open sea, which is still a favorite destination for visitors who want to feel the history and enjoy the panorama. At Fort Royal, you can see the remains of military cannons, underground corridors and warehouses, as well as numerous walls that have guarded this island for centuries.

Charlotte's Well on Lokrum is no ordinary well. It was built during the reign of Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg, when Lokrum was transformed into a botanical garden with exotic plants from all over the world. The water from the well was used for watering the plants, but also for bathing the owners and guests, which was a real rarity at the time. The island of Lokrum has been home to a Benedictine monastery since 1023, and throughout history it has changed owners and purposes – from a monastery, to a quarantine to protect Dubrovnik from the plague, to a summer residence for the European aristocracy. Archduke Maximilian and his wife Charlotte wanted to find peace on Lokrum, but fate was not kind to them. Maximilian traveled from Lokrum to Mexico, where he was executed, and Charlotte returned to the island after a shipwreck and soon lost her mind. The well remained as a reminder of their story, but also of all the unusual events associated with the island. Interestingly, a system of canals for collecting rainwater was developed throughout Lokrum, and Charlotte's Well was the focal point of this system. Today, the well is surrounded by lush greenery, and visitors often wonder what secrets and stories unfolded around it. Some believe that it was precisely because of the Benedictine curse that every owner of Lokrum ended tragically, and stories of accidents and unexplained events continue to attract the curious.