by croatiaweek
September 9, 2025
in
Sv. Andrija Island (Photo: Grad Pula-Pola)
After almost two years of closure, Sv. Andrija Island in Croatia has once again been opened to the public.
The island, which has been off-limits to the public for security reasons since 2023, is located in the Gulf of Pula.
The decision comes after the removal of massive shipyard sections from the eastern shore, which for decades had made the island inaccessible and unsafe.
The stored structures belonged to Uljanik Shipyard and had long prevented any efforts to improve the area. Their removal has now created conditions for a systematic clean-up, marking the first step in returning the island to use.
Deputy Mayor of Pula, Siniša Gordić, and Herculanea director, Robi Fuart, recently led a media visit to the site, highlighting that while access is now possible, safety cannot yet be guaranteed.
Citizens are free to visit, but only at their own risk.
(Photo: Grad Pula-Pola)
Herculanea has already deployed around ten workers to begin clearing overgrown vegetation and debris. Currently, there are no marked or safe paths on the island.
(Photo: Grad Pula-Pola)
Once the initial cleaning is completed, the terrain will be surveyed to determine the next stages of rehabilitation, which are expected to include the creation of walking paths for visitors.
(Photo: Grad Pula-Pola)
(Photo: Grad Pula-Pola)
The island, which covers 36,259 square metres with a coastline stretching 1,214 metres, is almost entirely owned by the City of Pula. Its highest point rises 24 metres above sea level, offering potential for future recreational and cultural use.
For now, no organised visits are planned, and anyone wishing to explore Sv. Andrija must do so responsibly and at their own risk.