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Zadar and interesting places to visit

Zadar is undeniably a top destination situated in the heart of Dalmatia, drawing an ever-growing number of tourists from around the world. With a city center steeped in a thousand years of history, Zadar conceals numerous historical stories and sights. It proves challenging to fully capture and describe all that this ancient pearl holds within the heart of Dalmatia. The symbol of Zadar is the church of St. Donatus, dating back to the 9th century. It is notable for its size and distinctive shape. The Roman Forum, constructed between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century, remarkably withstands the test of time. St. Anastasia, the great Romanesque Cathedral, the largest in all of Dalmatia, offers free entry to all who wish to witness its magnificent interior. People’s Square (“Narodni trg”) stands as the focal point of historical and urban Zadar. Another noteworthy square, adorned with five wells, served as a vital source of drinking water for the city’s inhabitants within the protective walls during the 16th century. Adjacent to the Five Wells Square is the Queen Jelena Park, offering a view of the enchanting Foša (a small old port bordered by walls) and the Land Gate (16th century), the only entrance to the fort of Zadar during the Ottoman Empire. Among the myriad of historical landmarks and narratives, Zadar boasts modern and globally unique music and light installations. The renowned Sea Organ, a 75-meter-long staircase along the waterfront, produces a distinctive sound as waves push air through submerged tubes. Another contemporary installation is the Sun Salutation, established in 2005. This feature comprises a 22-meter diameter circle with glass and solar panels, transforming into a captivating light display after sunset. Zadar’s picturesque promenade is one of the most stunning on the Adriatic coast, renowned for its beautiful sunsets that inspired Alfred Hitchcock in 1964. The indented Zadar archipelago and exceptionally clear sea add to the city’s allure. Numerous restaurants offer Adriatic Sea fish and cuisine from the Zadar hinterland. For nature enthusiasts, exploring Croatia’s national parks is a must. The Kornati National Park boasts an 89-island stone labyrinth, while the Velebit Nature Park features a 10-30 km wide mountainous area covering 2,200 square kilometers. Paklenica National Park (96 square kilometers) showcases caves, pits, and forests. Vrana Lake Nature Park is a lake near the sea, Krka National Park is renowned for its lakes and waterfalls, and Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for its combination of waterfalls, lakes, forests, and pure, untouched nature.

Zadar and interesting places to visit