Zadar, the most popular ancient city in Croatia

Zadar is an ancient city on a Mediterranean port, on the Adriatic coast to be precise. The old town surrounded by walls and towers on the peninsula is a part of the city connected by a bridge which is a symbol of the city. The city was built on the principles of Roman city architecture.

The Zadar region has been inhabited since early prehistoric times. Various archaeological findings confirm the existence of early Paleolithic life. The Libyan Ilirian originating from the Balkan peninsula are thought to have inhabited Zadar from the 7th century BC. During the 2nd century BC, the Romans made Zadar their colony. During Roman rule, Zadar began to resemble a true urban city with a network of streets, squares and temples. The remains of this monument are still preserved today.

Zadar has a long historical record. The city has lived for over 3000 years under dynamic conditions. Many times this city was destroyed and plundered. However, this city remains resilient so that it can rise again. From every ruins, this city was built more beautiful and stronger than before.

During the early medieval period, barbarian invasions brought the city of Zadar to a standstill. In the 7th century AD, Zadar became the capital of the Byzantine region of Dalmatia. During this period, Christianity slowly spread in the Zadar area. This had an impact on architecture and urban art. At the same time, the first large church in Zadar was built, namely the Holy Trinity Church which is now known as the Church of St. Donatus and is the city's most recognizable symbol.

In the 10th century AD, Croats began to inhabit the Zadar area. Several Roman churches from the earlier period still survive (St Mary's Cathedral, St. Grisogone and St. Anastasia's Cathedral). Although the late medieval period was a turbulent time with siege and destruction, it is considered the golden era of Zadar. The city established itself as one of the most important trading centers on the Adriatic coast. During the renaissance era, Zadar was under Venetian rule and remained so until the end of the 18th century AD During this period the Turkish invasion turned the city into a powerful fortress and drastically changed the appearance of the city.

After the First World War, Zadar came under Italian rule and remained so until the middle of the 20th century AD, when the Yugoslav state was formed. Since then the city of Zadar is considered a part of Croatia to this day. Zadar suffered significant destruction during World War II and during the Croatian War of independence, many historical monuments were destroyed. Today Zadar has been rebuilt and looks more beautiful than ever, establishing itself as one of the ancient cities as well as the most popular tourist destination in Croatia and Europe.