Jelsa: A Stargazing Haven in Croatia
The Croatian island of Hvar, famous for its beaches, vineyards, and vibrant nightlife, is now home to southern Europe’s first International Dark Sky Community. This prestigious designation highlights the commitment of the quaint harbor town of Jelsa to provide exceptional stargazing opportunities by reducing light pollution.
With over 195 locations around the globe recognized by the International Dark-Sky Association, Jelsa stands out as a transformative example of what can be achieved when communities dedicate themselves to the cosmos. Notably, this town is the first in Croatia to achieve this honor.
Achievements of Jelsa in Stargazing
The designation of Jelsa as an International Dark Sky Community is a significant accomplishment, making it an attractive destination for stargazing and planetary observation in southern Europe. Furthermore, it paves the way for future tourism events such as night sky safaris, full-moon hikes, astrophotography tours, and stargazing festivals.
Efforts to Reduce Light Pollution
Jelsa’s achievement did not occur overnight. Over the past two years, local authorities collaborated with the Croatian Astronomical Union to convert 82% of public lighting to environmentally friendly options. The community actively engaged residents through talks and workshops on the importance of reducing light pollution. Moreover, the installation of a dedicated meteor observation point led to the discovery of a new meteor system in 2021, known as the October son-in-law of Perseids.
Consequently, Jelsa has transformed its night skies, offering an extraordinarily dark backdrop for celestial events. The combination of reduced light interference and the preservation of local wildlife further enhances the stargazing experience.
Exploring the Beauty of Jelsa
In addition to stunning stargazing, Jelsa offers plenty of activities for visitors. Adventurous explorers can hike the island’s tallest mountains, St. Nikola and Hum, while history buffs can marvel at the 17th-century Baroque chapel of St. Mary or the ancient Greek fortress of Bur, which dates back to the 4th century BC. Jelsa is also known for its rich winemaking heritage, making it a delightful destination for wine tourism.
