The Green Heart of Europe
If the territory of Latvia were magically transported to the heart of Western Europe, and the "blank spot" filled with its natural colors, what would be the result? We would see a territory resembling a nature preserve or national park, surrounded by the highly urbanized landscape of modern Europe.
| Few countries remain in the world whose territories are dominated by ecosystems largely untouched by man. Where forests, marshes, lakes and rivers have developed over the centuries at their own pace, with minimal human interference. Where pristine sandy beaches stretch for 300 km unspoiled by resorts, restaurants or hordes of holidaymakers. No where else in Europe will you find such a large population of the black stork and the lesser spotted eagle. They represent 10% and 12% respectively, of the world population of these rare species.
Within 64,589 sq.km of territory, you will find hundreds of wolves and lynxes, 4,000 otters and 50,000 beavers. |
The rare black stork |
World Wars I and II, and a brutal communist regime exacted a heavy price on human life throughout Latvia, leaving a present day population density of 38 inhabits to 1 sq.km. But nature has thrived, filling the gap left by the horrors of war.
Text: Valdis Pilats, The Gauja National Park
Photographers: A.Eglitis, J.Pigoznis, V.Pilats, J.Zalans
© The Latvian Institute, 1999-2000
This fact sheet can be freely printed from homepage of the Latvian Institute, distributed and cited, on condition that the Latvian Institute is acknowledged as the source. The Latvian Institute is a non-profit organisation (a State Corporation with limited liability) established to promote knowledge about Latvia abroad. It produces publications, in several languages, on many aspects of Latvia.
