Karkonosze National Park

Karkonosze National Park, known as Krkonošský národní park, is located in northern Czechia, near the border with Poland, in the Hradec Králové and Liberec regions. Established on May 17, 1963, it covers an area of 36,327 hectares, and with its buffer zone, it extends to approximately 55,000 hectares. The park's headquarters are situated in Vrchlabí. The park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, distinctive mountain landscapes, and numerous hiking trails that attract nature lovers and mountain tourists. In 1992, the park was inscribed on the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve list as Karkonosze/Krkonoše, highlighting its ecological significance and environmental protection efforts. One of the key cultural elements of the region is its architecture, including traditional Karkonosze cottages and structures related to tourism, such as mountain huts and observation towers. Additionally, the region has a rich history linked to mining and craftsmanship, which is evident in the preserved buildings and monuments. Unfortunately, Karkonosze National Park faces serious ecological threats, including the adverse effects of pollution, placing it among some of the least protected ecosystems in the world. An interesting fact is that the park is home to unique rock formations, such as the Lokietek Stone, and a rich variety of flora and fauna, including rare plant and animal species, making this region particularly attractive to scientists and tourists alike.