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The
island of Mljet is situated in the southern Dalmatian archipelago.
The landscape of the island seems to justify the opinion of those
who think of it as of the «enchanted island» where Ulysses was
captured by charming Calypso. 90% of the area of the national park
is covered with forest. Its relief is characterized by ranges of
limestone elevations and numerous karst valleys and fields. South
of the highest crest (Veli Grad, 514m) is the largest field zone.
In the extreme north-western part of the island is the submerged
valley of Mljet lakes; Small and Big Lake, connected with a canal.
Big Lake is connected with the open sea by a shallow canal called
Soline. In both
channels the sea current changes its direction due to ebb and
flow, this was in the Middle Ages used for water mills.
On
the island are numerous monuments and ruins that date back to the
Illyrian and Roman times. In Roman times the island was mentioned
under the name of Melite. On the islet in Big Lake is a
benedictine abbey with a church.
The climate on the island
is Mediterranean. Major places lie in the interior, along
cultivated fields. Economy is based on viticulture, production of
wine, olive growing, cultivation of medicinal herbs, fishing and
tourism. |
