Top 6 Attractions in Zadar, Croatia

Zadar is a city in Croatia with a rich history and many attractions to see. Here are some of the top sights to visit in Zadar:

1. The Sea Organ

The Sea Organ is an architectural installation on the waterfront that plays music using the sound of waves. It consists of a series of tubes and channels that create music using the sound of waves. The tubes are cut into the stone steps leading down to the sea, and as the waves push air into them, they create a unique and peaceful sound.

People enjoying the Sea Organ music, source: Facebook page: Zadar je u srcu mome

It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it's just one example of the city's creativity and innovation.

The Sea Organ on the Waterfront of Zadar

The sea organ was designed by architect Nikola Bašić, is located near the new pier for cruisers, part of the Zadar waterfront, and is recognizable as a specially shaped shore in several rows of steps that descend towards the sea.

2. Greeting to the Sun

Also located on the waterfront, the Greeting to the Sun is a large solar panel installation that creates a light show at night. 

Greeting to the Sun installation in Zadar

It consists of a large circular panel made up of hundreds of photovoltaic cells that absorb energy from the sun during the day.

Greeting to the Sun at sunset, source: Facebook page: Zadar je u srcu mome

At night, the panel creates a light show using the stored energy, providing a stunning display for visitors. It allows to experience a stunning light show at sunset.

Mesmerizing sunset on the Greeting to the Sun installation source: Facebook page: Zadar je u srcu mome

If you come to Zadar, make sure to visit this unique attraction, especially during sunset when you can experience its beauty in full.

3. St. Donatus Church

St. Donatus Church is a medieval church in the historic center of Zadar. Built in the 9th century, this church is one of the best-preserved examples of Byzantine architecture in Croatia.

Church of St. Donatus, Zadar

The church was originally built as a mausoleum for the Byzantine emperor but was later converted into a church. It is circular, with a diameter of 27 meters and a height of 22 meters. 

The church has a courtyard with a well-preserved Romanesque bell tower

The church interior is decorated with intricate stonework and features many impressive Romanesque details. Its circular shape and Byzantine architecture make it a must-see.

Inside the Church of St. Donatus, from commons.wikimedia.org  Author: AnatolyPm

One of the most striking features of St. Donatus Church is its unique acoustics. The building's circular shape, with its stone walls and lack of ornamentation, creates a perfect environment for musical performances. As a result, the church is often used as a venue for concerts and other cultural events.

4. Roman Forum

The Roman Forum in Zadar is an ancient public square in the heart of the city's historic center. It was built in the 1st century AD, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Augustus, and served as the center of civic life in the ancient city of Zadar.

 Roman Forum, Zadar, from Pixabay.com

Well-preserved Roman ruins surround the Roman Forum, including the remains of a temple, a basilica, and a column. The most striking feature of the forum is its large, open square, which was used for public gatherings, political events, and other civic activities.

The Roman Forum remains, source: Flickr author: Carole Raddato

Over the centuries, the Roman Forum has undergone severeal transformations. During the Middle Ages, it was used as a market square, and in the 19th century, it was converted into a park. Today, visitors can wander among the ruins, marvel at the ancient architecture, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this historic site.

Roman ruins in Zadar, source: Facebook page: Zadar je u srcu mome

The Roman Forum in Zadar is considered one of the most significant and well-preserved examples of Roman architecture in Croatia, and it is a must-see destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts visiting the city.

5. Cathedral of St. Anastasia

The largest cathedral in Dalmatia, the Cathedral of St. Anastasia was built in the 13th century and features a mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance styles.

 

Cathedral of St. Anastasia, Zadar, from Pixabay.com

The cathedral is known for its impressive façade, which features three portals with beautiful sculptural decorations.

Inside the cathedral, visitors can admire a number of valuable works of art, including the altar of St. Anastasia, which was created by the renowned Venetian sculptor, Giuseppe Torretto, in the 18th century. The cathedral also houses a number of important religious relics, including the bones of St. Anastasia and a fragment of the True Cross.

In addition to its religious significance, the Cathedral of St. Anastasia is also an important cultural and historical landmark. It has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1997 as part of the Historic City of Zadar.

Bell tower of St Anastasia’s Cathedral, Zadar, from commons.wikimedia.org author Pudelek (Marcin Szala)

The bell tower is 57 meters tall and offers stunning views of the city and the Sea. It is made of stone and has a square base that gradually tapers as it rises, with several levels and balconies along the way. 

Panoramic view of Zadar and the Adriatic Sea from the Bell Tower of St. Anastasia’s Cathedral, source: Flickr, author: Tim Ertl

The top of the tower is adorned with four decorative turrets, each with a bell that rings out over the city.

6. Church of St. Mary

Church of St. Mary is one of the oldest and most important churches in Zadar, and it has played an important role in the religious life of the city for centuries.

The church was built in the 11th century in the Romanesque style and with beautiful stone carvings, and it has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries.

Church of St. Mary in Zadar, from commons.wikimedia.org Author:  Maestralni

The church has a simple, rectangular shape, built out of stone. Its tall bell tower is one of the most recognizable features. Its interior is relatively plain, but it features several important works of art, including a large altarpiece that was created in the 15th century.

Inside the Church of St. Mary in Zadar, from commons.wikimedia.org, Author:  Pequod76

St. Mary's church is also a popular spot for weddings among young couples.

Spend your day exploring Zadar sights

Zadar is also known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters, which attract visitors from all over the world. The city has a stunning coastline that offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. In case you are interested in what other things you can do in Zadar besides sightseeing, feel free to check our blog Luxury Vacation in Zadar. If you need a place to stay in Zadar please check our villas in Zadar or contact our Villa Specialists directly. On the other hand, if you plan to visit Zadar shortly you might find useful this blog post Day Trip to Zadar.

Finally, we hope this blog has awakened your curiosity to come and visit this amazing city's sights for yourself!