Although the fertile lands of the Brijuni were inhabited as far back as the Bronze Age, modern travelers have learned about these wonderful islands not so long ago. In 1983, the islands received the honorary status of a national park and many lovers of ecotourism and natural monuments started to come to the Brijuni every year to enjoy these fabulous places with amazing natural landscapes and ancient historical and cultural monuments from the times of Ancient Rome.

The national park with a total area of about 40 square kilometers consists of 14 islands and reefs located just 6 kilometers from the coast of Pula. All of them are covered with dense subtropical vegetation thanks to the mild climate. There are centuries-old oaks and laurels, beautiful coniferous pines, olives, and rosemary, as well as valuable tree species such as cedars and eucalyptus trees, pines, myrtles and charming oleanders, which have inspired more than a dozen writers and poets from all over the world. Besides, the Brijuni oak forests are considered the most beautiful ones in modern Croatia.

The world of the island fauna is no less diverse. Whole colonies of sea urchins signify the purity of coastal waters. It is not for nothing that throughout history, all the powerful nations sought to conquer the islands: from Illyrians and Celts to Romans and Venetians. The Austro-Hungarians even built seven defensive forts here: two on Mali Brijun and five on Veliki Brijun. Later, Josip Broz Tito placed his summer residence on the island of Veliki Brijun. Thanks to him, the island's attractions were complemented by a huge safari park, which still pleases visitors. It is home to deer, zebras, and even elephants. By the way, the first Indian elephants were presented to Tito by Indira Gandhi. With this generous gift, the history of the Brijun Zoo began.