Can you imagine living on an island where your nearest neighbour is a seagull? Otok Života, or the Island of Life, lies just off the coast of Ston, a charming medieval town in Croatia. This tiny islet is a hidden gem, boasting stunning views across the Malostonski Bay and the Peljesac Peninsula. And despite being home to eleven structures, it’s been uninhabited for decades.
Otok Života was once owned by the Bandur family from nearby Hodilje. But the island’s fate changed in 1935 when it was bought by a wealthy Dubrovnik banker, Božo Banac. He loved the island so much that he built a grand house for himself and his guests.
Božo Banac saw Otok Života’s strategic location too. He used it as a storage depot for ships bringing goods to the Peljesac Peninsula. But after World War II, the island was nationalized and became the property of the municipality of Ston.
In the 1960s, Otok Života became a hub for scientific research. The Institute for Marine Research from Split set up a station there to study the unique marine environment. Later, school trips visited the island, but it eventually fell into disuse.
Today, Otok Života is a quiet, peaceful island. It lies in the heart of the famous oyster farming region, known for its delicious Malostonski oysters. While the island may be empty, it’s still a reminder of the region’s rich history and diverse landscape. The ruins of Božo Banac’s house and the remnants of the research station are whispers of the island’s past. So, as you sail past Otok Života, remember that even in its quiet solitude, this island is alive with tales of the past.