Nestled within Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Sutjeska National Park, Perućica is one of Europe’s last remaining primeval rainforests. This untouched expanse, near the border with Montenegro, spans deep valleys and rugged mountain slopes, sheltering a rich diversity of life. Some of its beech, fir, and spruce trees have stood for over 300 years, forming a dense canopy that supports numerous rare and endemic species.
This 3D rendering of a satellite image, acquired by Copernicus Sentinel-2 on 15 October 2024, captures Perućica’s striking autumn colors in contrast to the surrounding mountainous landscape. As a UNESCO-listed site, the forest is a key area for ecological preservation, offering scientists a rare glimpse into an ecosystem largely undisturbed by human activity.
Through high-resolution Earth observation, Copernicus provides vital data for monitoring the health of forests like Perućica, tracking biodiversity changes, and assessing the impacts of climate change. This information is essential for conservation efforts, helping to safeguard one of Europe’s most ancient woodlands from habitat degradation.
Featured image credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery
