iCliGo: Zadar

Zadar Croatia

Zadar is a city in Croatia on the Adriatic Sea. It’s the fifth-largest city in the country and serves as the centre of modern Croatia’s Zadar County and the wider northern Dalmatian region. Zadar sits across from the islands of Ugljan and Pašman, separated from them by the narrow Zadar Strait. Despite all the destruction it suffered after the Second World War, Zadar has preserved a wealth of heritage of global importance, visible at every turn. The Roman Forum, dating back to the 1st century, is a popular spot where locals stroll, sit among the ruins and enjoy a fine summer’s day. The Church of St Donatus, from the 9th century, is one of the best-preserved pre-Romanesque buildings in the world and is considered the symbol of the city. The rebuilt Romanesque Church of St Grisigono, from the 12th century, is a remarkable example of how different historical structures can be combined. It was built on the remains of an older church, and later reconstructed after being bombed in the Second World War, incorporating elements of a destroyed Benedictine convent behind it. The Romanesque Cathedral of St Anastasia, from the 13th century, is particularly impressive. Visitors can climb its tower for a stunning view over the city of Zadar and the nearby islands. The Sea Organ is a favourite with both locals and visitors. This man-made organ, set into Zadar’s Riva (waterfront), uses the movement of the waves and 35 pipes to create an ever-changing musical soundscape. It was designed by Croatian architect Nikola Bašić, who also created the nearby Greeting to the Sun installation. The city has a strong reputation for its artists and galleries. There are about a dozen major galleries, along with many smaller shops tucked away in the side streets. Zadar also boasts a main street for everyday, higher-end shopping used by locals and by some tourists keen on a bit of retail therapy. It’s called Špire Brusine and runs through the heart of the old town. Zadar’s sunsets are legendary as well, making it an ideal place for romantics of all ages to relax and unwind.

Recommended airport

Zadar (ZAD)

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