In central Dalmatia on the Adriatic coast, the oldest Croatian coastal city, Sibenik, invites you to unforgettable holidays. Sibenik is the only city in Croatia that has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the St. James Cathedral and the St. Nicholas Fortress. The historic old town with its impressive churches, fortresses, narrow stone alleys, and more than 2,800 steps is extremely worth seeing.
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The Cathedral of St. James is considered the landmark of Sibenik. Its construction began in the late Middle Ages in the Venetian Gothic style. Completion took place in 1536 and shows impressive elements from the Tuscan Renaissance style. The church is open to visitors all year round. Be sure to check out the vault above the baptistery and the richly decorated interior. The sculptures, such as that of the Archangel Michael, are considered highlights on the facade.
The historic town hall of Sibenik was built in the early modern period. Construction lasted from 1533 to 1542, and to this day, the City Hall has largely remained in its original condition. It is located at the Square of the Republic. The square, considered the heart of the city, is surrounded by other attractions. Here is also the Dalmatinac Monument, which was erected in 1961. Parts of the City Hall are also open to visitors so that they can admire the building from the inside.
In the north of the city center rises the St. John's Fortress. The fortress was built in the 17th century, and it took only 58 days. The citizens of the city helped with the construction to defend Sibenik against the Ottoman attacks. The castle, located on a hill, can be reached after a short climb via a road or an unpaved path. From the top, the view extends from the roofs of Sibenik over the sea to the surrounding islands.
With its view over Sibenik to the sea, St. Michael's Fortress was built in the Middle Ages to detect attackers from afar. Today, the restored castle delights visitors not only with panoramas but also with an open-air stage where concerts take place. From the historic castle complex, two cisterns, towers, and the defensive wall, along which visitors can walk, are still preserved today. Those who wish to join a guided tour can book a combo ticket for the nearby Barone Fortress.
A visit to the city museum is recommended for all travelers who want to learn more about the long history of Sibenik. It is located just a few minutes' walk north of the historic center and is usually open from Monday to Saturday. The museum building itself is worth seeing. It is housed in a prince's palace from the 13th century and has been operating as a museum for almost 100 years. Numerous artifacts and finds from the past millennia are on display.
After a small ascent from the old town, you reach the Barone Fortress. The hill fortress, built in the 17th century, has been lovingly restored. With an audio guide in numerous languages and a tablet, visitors immerse themselves in the castle's past. Those who wish can take part in a tour of the defense facility, which was built to fend off the Ottomans. Cannons from that time still bear witness today. Afterwards, the castle's café sweetens the view over Sibenik all the way to the sea for its guests.