The protected areas in the Republic of Croatia are divided into nine categories at the national level. The second and third categories encompass national parks and nature parks. There is a total of 19 such areas of which 8 are national parks and 11 nature parks. A national park is defined as a large, predominately unspoilt area of land and/or sea rich in exceptional and numerous natural values that encompasses one or more preserved or slightly changed ecosystems. It is primarily aimed at the preservation of autochthonous natural and landscape-related values. In addition, a national park has its scientific, curtural, educational and recreational purposes. A nature park is a large natural area or partly cultivated area of land and/or the sea rich in biodiversity and/or geo-diversity that features valuable ecological characteristics, remerkable landscape, cultural and historical values. A nature park has its scientific, cultural, educational and recreational purposes as well. The decision of proclaiming an area national park or nature park is made by Croatian Parlament. National parks and nature parks are managed by public institutions that operate as a public service. Public institutions are partly funded by the national budget of the Republic of Croatia, and partly by means of various charges, sales of souvenirs and other goods, etc.