Šibenik

The historic city of Šibenik is picturesquely situated in a deep bay. The spacious bay is connected to the open sea by a channel that is proudly guarded by the 16th-century fortress of St. Nicholas and numerous islets. Šibenik and its surroundings are particularly charming because of the mouth of the Krka river, which flows through Lake Prokljan and eventually merges with the Adriatic Sea right here near Šibenik. In the history of the Croats, Šibenik is extremely important as it is the oldest city they founded upon their arrival on the Adriatic coast. The city was mentioned for the first time in a document of King Petar Krešimir IV in the 11th century, which later led to the city being also called Krešimir's city. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Šibenik was surrounded by walls, but only the fortifications located on the hills above the city have remained until today. The greater part of the walls, which served as protection against Ottoman invasions, was mostly demolished and only the wall that runs from St. Michael’s fortress down towards the coast and ends at the city gate in the quarter Dolac has been preserved.

The most recognizable landmark of Šibenik is certainly the central town square with the Cathedral of St. James. The cathedral’s century-long construction is a genuine piece of craftsmanship as it was built entirely of stone, stone slabs and ribs without the use of any binding material. It vividly displays the filigree work of master Juraj Dalmatinac and other distinguished masters of that time. Other highlights are the City Hall and the impressive Rector's and Bishop's Palace. The old town with its stone houses, squares and streets is a unique example of authentic Dalmatian architecture. In addition to its rich history and cultural sights, Šibenik is also surrounded by exceptional natural beauties.

The endless pebble beaches of Zablaće and Brodarica are a tourist paradise. Adventurers will certainly enjoy exploring the beauties and hidden coves of nearby islands Kaprije, Žirje, Obonjan and Zlarin. Šibenik’s hinterland is also worth discovering, as it hides a true natural gem and one of the most visited national parks in Croatia, the Krka National Park, where visitors can enjoy the refreshing river and well-maintained paths that lead to the magnificent waterfall Skradinski buk. We also recommend a visit to the Falconry Center located in the dense pine forest of Dubrava near Šibenik, where falconry is nurtured as a skill of hunting with falcons.