First settlers are considered to be Liburnians who came in 8th century BC. to this territory. Their traces from Neolithic era are still present in the areas of Puntamik and Arbanas. The name Jadera which is associated with water comes from their time which was followed by the Greek and Roman colonization. Romans ruled until the Ostrogoths came and devastated Zadar region around 5th century AD and later in addition Avars broke into area in 6th centuray AD. The era that followed and period of the Byzantine administration brought Zadar prosperity and it became strong naval force In 1069. during the reign of Petar Krešimir IV. Zadar joined the Croatian-Hungarian state and despite the frequent Venetian army intrusions period from 11th to 14th century is the golden age of art and culture in Dalmatia and Zadar. In 14th century alongside the other Central Dalmatia territory parts because of Hungarian ruler Ladislav the Naples who sold territory for 100 000 golden ducats Zadar was joined to Venice which helped the city in the defence from the Turkish invasion in the east. At the time of Napoleon’s predominance his army defeated Venetians and French have rule over Zadar for a short period. In 1813. Austrians came to power and after the World War I Zadar territory according to Rapallo Treaty is given to Italy who then changed Zadar name to Zara. After World War II Zadar along with the rest of Croatia became a part of Yugoslavia. Only in the last decade of the 20th century after the Croatian War of Independence Zadar became important administrative, cultural and transportation autonomous centre.
Despite mentioned sieges and city destruction throughout history there are still many traces of the turbulent past in the old town such as the walls, towers, gates, 9th century St. Donat church, 1st century Roman Forum, 13th century St Anastasia church etc… The orthogonal street arrangement in the city centre is also still preserved. In European media Zadar is described as inventive city that is not living only out of tourism and its history but has proved to be a modern cultural and social space with respect to all urban projects in last 10 years which is more than accurate.
Zadar sits on a small peninsula on the central coast of Croatia, protected by an abundance of beautiful offshore islands. The walled port of Zadar is a great motor, catamaran or sailing yacht destination to escape the summer crowds and enjoy the true Croatian coastal life.
Traffic - transportation connectionsIn Zadar vicinity there are two National Parks Kornati and Paklenica. The city lies on the coast of north-western parts of Ravni Kotari and Zadar Canal in northern Dalmatia 73km from Šibenik.
Islands Ugljan and Pašman are situated opposite to Zadar. 9 km from the town in Zemunik Donji is an international airport. The Zadar Marinas has extensive experience in providing facilities for charter yachts and offers a comprehensive range of services for both guests and crews. Zadar's best marinas are Marina Zadar, Marina Borik, Marina Dalmacija, Marina Kornati and Marina Olive island.
Marina ZadarSituated in the centre of the Adriatic coastline, the port is ideal for cruises out into the maze of islands in the Kornati archipelago.
Marina BorikModern and extremely well-equipped, the Marina Borik is located to the west of Zadar and provides charter yachts an excellent starting point for cruises into the Dalmatian archipelago.
Marina DalmacijaLocated in the very centre of the Adriatic coastline, this extensive modern marina offers you everything you need in the way of essential provisions and technical services.
Marina KornatiThe Marina Kornati is a huge maritime port near Zadar.
Marina Olive IslandA prestigious and ultra-modern marina on the Dalmatian coastline, the Olive Island Marina prides itself on its world-class facilities and friendly welcome
Sea organ Waves give energy to this one of a kind Zadar Sea Organ so when the weather is good and sea calm there is neither sound nor melody. This natural and cultural instrument is placed next to the seaside where it can musically accompany the most beautiful sunset in the world as many have said. Alongside this Sear Organ there is another installation - a set of circular stairs that accumulate energy from the sun during the day and transmit it during evening. This installation is appropriately called Greeting to the Sun.
Surroundings Zadar and the surrounding area consists of places Arbanasi, Borik, Kolovare, Puntamika, Relja, islands Ist, Pag, Dugi otok, Silba, Pašman, etc…
Musical Evenings in St. Donat This International music festival that is being held since 1960 is a nice blend of music and wonderful St Donat church ambient and its acoustics. Artists regularly give special attention in their performances to the music of the Middle Ages and early Renaissance and Baroque.
National Park Kornati Zadar, justifiably, some call the gates of National Parks due to the unique geographical position and path that literally lead to Paklenica, Krka Falls, Plitvice Lakes, Velebit and Kornati islands. National Park Kornati is made out of special group of uninhabited islands in total 89 of them where one can find rich flora and fauna as well as memorable view in the underwater world or from a lookout famous panoramic sight and its something one can definitely should not miss.