By T.B.
In the tranquil waters of the Adriatic Sea, near the Zadar coastline, lies a small, uninhabited island that has become a symbol of love and romance. Known as Galešnjak or the “Island of Love,” this heart-shaped island has captured the imaginations of couples and romantics around the world.
A masterpiece of nature, the only island with an almost perfect heart shape which, unlike many others around the world, never changes its contours, neither at low or high tide nor during the impetuous and powerful winds of „bura“.
A Natural Heart
The island’s unusual shape was first recorded in the early 19th century by Napoleon’s cartographer Charles-François Beautemps-Beaupré, who included it in his 1806 atlas of the Dalmatian coast.
But the fact that brought the island to worldwide attention in modern times was when it was highlighted on Google Earth in February 2009. The satellite image of the island has gone viral, solidifying its status as a symbol of love. This helped bring Galešnjak to a global audience, making it a well-known destination for romantics and travelers seeking a peaceful escape.
The lack of infrastructure and development has kept Galešnjak relatively untouched and provides a rare glimpse into an unspoiled natural environment. The island has a surface area of 0.132 km2, with its beach measuring 1.55 km in length. The island features two peaks, the highest of which is 36 m high above sea level and you could cross it in less than 10 minutes. It’s surrounded by pebble beaches, rocks, and it contains only wild plants and trees as well as a colony of small rabbits and wild pigeons. Historically, human activity recorded on this island includes three known Illyrian burial mounds and remains of an ancient building’s foundations.
Famous Visitors
The island has attracted many notable visitors, including celebrities like Michael Jordan and Beyoncé, who celebrated her 39th birthday on the island. Their visits have contributed to Galešnjak’s fame as a destination for the rich and famous seeking a quiet, private retreat in an idyllic setting.
A Symbol of Romance
Whether you are drawn by the island’s beauty, its romantic appeal, or its serene isolation, Galešnjak offers an experience that feels magical and unforgettable. With its heart shape carved by nature’s hand, the island stands as a tribute to the power of love, offering a quiet refuge for those looking to embrace both the spirit of adventure and the serenity of the sea.
Photo courtesy: YouTube/Screenshot
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