Adverse possession represents one of the key institutes of property law; it has a long history and deep roots in legal systems around the world, including the Croatian legal system. Croatian legal regulations place great importance on adverse possession as a method of acquiring ownership, which is based on long-term and peaceful possession of property, in accordance with the rules on acquiring ownership through adverse possession. Adverse possession, as a method of acquiring ownership based on long-term and peaceful possession, reflects the fundamental principle that ownership should not remain unresolved or unused for an extended period. This ensures legal certainty and stability of ownership relations. Adverse possession allows a person who has possessed a property for a legally prescribed period, and has met all legal requirements, to become the lawful owner of that property. Accordingly, the acquisition of ownership through adverse possession is recognized as a valid method of acquiring ownership rights. As a result, ownership acquired through adverse possession enjoys the same legal protection as ownership acquired through other legal grounds, although this institute is primarily aimed at protecting the private interests of the possessor. Precisely because of the emphasized protection of private over general social interests, the institute of adverse possession developed later compared to classic methods of acquiring ownership.