Zadar

Zadar and the surrounding area are situated at the center of the Croatian Adriatic coast, where it is most indented. All around, within a short distance, several national parks are located: Plitvice, Paklenica, Krka and Kornati and the Parks of Velebit and Telascica. There are also more then 300 big and small islands.

Natural beauties, numerous bays and beaches, ancient historic monuments, and a rich choice of food with a number of regional specialities is what makes Zadar and its surroundings one of most attractive regions in Croatia. The historic part of Zadar is simply enchanting for all admirers and lovers of historic monuments and cultural heritage.St. Donat's church, the symbol of the town, is certainly worth seeing and so are the museums such as the Archeological Museum founded in 1830., the National Museum with the Art Gallery and Science Museum, the Maritime Museum exhibiting the maritime history of Northern Dalmatia and permanent exhibition of church art, known as «Silverand Gold of Zadar»

In numerous Zadar's taverns and restaurants visitors should sample the original specialities and drinks, amongst which the famous Maraschino liqueur stands out. this unique drink was a favourite at European courts as early as the nineteenth century and it has been produced in Zadar since 1821.

History

Zadar is an ancient town with a 3000 year long history. It started as a Liburnian settlement and then as the Roman colony of Jadera. In the 6th century AD it came under the authority of the Byzantine empire.

A major influx of the Croatian population into the town occurred in the tenth century. From that period the foundations of St. Mary's church, St.Krsevan's church and the cathedral have been preserved.

In 1202 the town was burnt down by crusader soldiers and Venetians.ln the period that followed, the first gothic churches in Dalmatia were built such as StFrane's church and St.Dominic's church. In 1380 one of Zadar's most famous pieces of art was created-St.Simon's silver coffin, ornamented with thirteen relief compositions.
At the beginning of the 15th century it came under the rule of Venice, then Austria, France and Italy to eventually become part of Croatia again after World War II. Numerous are the monuments from those historical periods, which bear testimony to the turbulent times Zadar went through, changing its masters, culture and customs.