Elaphites Islands - Physical-Geographical Characteristics in Function of Socio-Economical Development

The paper contains essential interaction determinants of the spatial position and natural geographical bases with the development of Elafiti islands in the past and nowadays. Covering an area of about 27 km2 and with 873 inhabitants (after preliminary result of 2001 census) they form a small separated group in the southernmost part of the Croatian islands belonging to the Dubrovnik archipelago. Special consideration is given to the characteristics of their geological origin and structure, to geomorphological features, climatovegetational characteristics and influence of soils. Sporadic water appearances were essential for the preservation and continuity of life and economic development. In these times the water supply problem has been solved by conveying water from land. The authors point out the importance of physicogeographical components in historiogeographical development and also the necessity of valuing them in the modern socioeconomic development conditions