Dalmatian Islands

Dalmatian Islands 

the general name for a group of islands in the Adriatic Sea along the coast of the Balkan Peninsula. They are a part of Yugoslavia. They include more than 1,000 islands, with an area of about 2,500 sq km. The most important islands are Krk. Cres. Pag, Dugi Otok, Brae. Vis, Hvar, and Korcula.

The Dalmatian islands were separated from the Balkan Peninsula as a result of the sinking of its mountainous western edge and the subsequent partial flooding of the valleys by the sea, which transformed them into picturesque bays and gulfs with a winding coastline. They are mainly composed of Mesozoic limestones and have hilly and low-mountain terrain (the highest point is 778 m, on the island of Brač). Karst is widespread. There are vineyards, gardens, and citrus and olive plantations. There is sheep raising, as well as resorts and tourism.