Known by intriguing names such as “the mysterious dragon’s eye” or “the eye of the Earth,” the mystical beauty at the source of the Cetina River captivates countless tourists who seek it out.
“The eye” of the Cetina River.
The source of the Cetina River begins from a spring in Milasevo, near a small village called Cetina, which is 7 km away from Vrlika, Croatia. This stunningly colorful spring has a uniquely special shape resembling an eye and is one of the sources of the longest river in Dalmatia – the Cetina River.
Source of the Cetina River.
The spring is referred to as “the eye of the Earth” due to its varying shades of blue and turquoise. Viewed from above, it showcases a uniquely beautiful and captivating sight in the area. This small body of water has been explored by divers, with the source of the Cetina River reaching depths of over 150 meters.
Scenic beauty of the Cetina River.
At the Cetina source, the water temperature does not exceed 7°C even in the height of summer. If you wish to dive here, visitors will need a suit made from synthetic rubber. On the other hand, the water at the Cetina source is crystal clear, allowing you to see the deep abyss at the bottom of the spring while swimming.
The Cetina River stretches for 101 km. The canyon of the Cetina River is now very popular among tourists seeking adventurous activities such as rafting, waterfall climbing, zip-lining, rock climbing, kayaking, and other outdoor pursuits.
The great depth makes the Centina Lake a favorite diving spot for many thrill-seeking visitors. Especially, the underwater ecosystem within the lake fascinates many tourists.
Additionally, this location is intertwined with various local legends. Close to the lake is also a church dedicated to Christ.
The scenery here is very peaceful.
Divers have reached depths of 115 meters, and according to their descriptions: “The underwater fairyland is indescribably beautiful.”
There are many legends about the “mysterious dragon’s eye” and “the eye of the Earth.” One of these is the mythical story of a fairy named Cetina, who had the ability to control whales.
Once, thousands of years ago, Cetina was deceived by the god Zeus, leading her to tears.
Her tears flowed endlessly, forming the river that bears her name today. Exhausted from crying, she turned to stone.
Subsequently, the locals named the river after the fairy, calling it Cetina.
Many legends about the “mysterious dragon’s eye” are linked to the mythical story of the fairy named Cetina.
The local people believe that simply bathing in the river, which is the tears of the fairy Cetina, will help those struggling with infertility to conceive.
Currently, visitors can reach the “mysterious dragon’s eye” from the town of Vrlika, which is 7 km from the village of Cetina. Notably, experienced travelers consider this a must-visit spot in Croatia.
The Cetina River has been recognized as a national heritage site of Croatia since 1971, affirming the value and uniqueness of this destination, and it is the most water-rich river in Dalmatia.
