One of Croatia’s most famous landmarks is at risk of becoming completely “unrecognisable,” and now people worldwide are calling for measures to be taken to save it.

Zlatni Rat, also known as Golden Horn Beach in Bol, Croatia, attracts around 10,000 visitors daily. 

The “jewel” of Croatia’s coastline is recognised and loved for its unique triangular shape that stretches out into the Adriatic Sea like a horn. Just last year, it was named the 12^th most beautiful beach in the world.

However, due to climate forces and human activities such as tourism, unregulated boat anchoring and nearby construction work, the structure of the beach is changing.

Zlanti Rat’s shape has begun to shift and bend, and studies show that the movements of the boats and their anchors can disrupt sediment layers. 

Further environmental pressures from construction projects have also had a huge impact on the beach, as constructions in the surrounding area have been carried out without sufficient environmental oversight.

The damage to the beloved beach has led to the creation of a petition titled “Save the Golden Horn Beach,” which has been signed by people worldwide.

The petition raises awareness and includes several suggestions for safeguarding and restoring the beach to its original form.

The petition states: “This is something we can, and must do. The beach has given us so much over the years – to tourism, and to each of us personally, as Zlantni Rat holds something magical that always brings us back.”

Some of the solutions suggested included the addition of designated boat anchoring zones, stricter anchoring methods, regular monitoring and research for locals and tourists and expert consultation for construction projects, ensuring they will not affect the ecosystem.

The petition added: “These measures can immediately help reduce damage and protect Zlatni Rat while long-term solutions are sought.”

Many fear that without immediate intervention, Zlatni Rat will lose its unique form and contribute negatively to Bol’s economy, which relies on tourism.