Fun Facts about Zadar Region
How much do you know about the Zadar region? If you have visited it at least once, surely you have fond memories and a valuable insight into various facts. Still, there are bound to be curiosities you mind find fascinating to learn. So, here are a few fun facts about the Zadar region we bet you didn’t know:
More than 200 islands to explore
There are 1244 islands, islets and cliffs in Croatia. Roughly one fifth of them, 242 to be precise, decorate the sea in the Zadar region. Amongst them, Pag, Dugi Otok, Pašman and Ugljan are the largest, while Ošljak is the smallest inhabited island in the whole of Croatia (out of altogether 35 inhabited islands, according to the latest census). Thanks to their diversity of shape, size and landscape, they are authentic gems of Adriatic nature well worth exploring by boat.
Widely protected nature
Zadar County, i.e. the administrative unit corresponding to the Zadar Region, has a surface area of a bit over 7000 km², half of which is land, while the other half corresponds to the sea surface area. What is even more fascinating to know is that roughly one third of the entire surface area has been protected as invaluable natural phenomena.
These reflect the incredible diversity of the region and feature: Paklenica National Park (mountain), nature parks Velebit (mountain), Telašćica (bay) and Lake Vrana. You might also be curious to explore the fascinating world of Cerovac and Modrić caves (both nature monuments), breathtaking Zrmanja canyon and magical Ošljak island (both significant landscapes). Not far from Zaton Holiday Resort, you can admire the special habitat for many plants and animal species, a part of the Natura 2000 eco network in Nin.
UNESCO heritage
Unique in more ways than one! In addition to the primeval beech forest in Paklenica NP, the UNESCO World Heritage list also features two examples of the rich cultural heritage in the Zadar region. Namely, the city walls in Zadar together with historical gates and squares represent an example of Venetian Works of Defence from the 16th and 17th centuries. Also, a traditional craft of lacemaking passed on from generation to generation on the island of Pag has been listed as Intangible Heritage.
Naturally, other examples of Intangible Heritage that apply to the entire Dalmatia can be found in the Zadar region as well. These include Klapa multipart singing, Mediterranean diet, as well as the art of dry-stone walling.
Fascinating from prehistoric times onwards
Go (way) back in time in the Zadar region! There are numerous monuments that testify to the turbulent past of the region dating back several millennia. So, you get to admire the Roman heritage by visiting the Forum and other traces of the Roman past in Zadar, or the remains of the ancient settlement Asseria near Benkovac. You can also learn about early Croatian dukes and kings by discovering the legacy of Nin. And if you wish to know more about medieval times and early modern era in Zadar region, a few suggestions apart from the city of Zadar include Benkovac castle, Maškovića han and remains of Vrana estate, historical centre of Pag town, and others.
And that’s not all. In fact, the human presence in the area dates back to prehistoric times. If you are curious about such findings, the best option is a visit to the Archaeological Museum in Zadar.
Delicious Zadar region
Zadar region shares various gastronomic traits with the rest of Dalmatia, including the Mediterranean diet, Dalmatian prosciutto, fish & seafood specialties. Still, there are a few gastronomic treats unique to the area such as šokol (cured pork delicacy) and sea asparagus from Nin, cheese and widely known lamb meat from Pag island, and Maraschino cherry liqueur. Amazing flavours and great souvenirs, all in one.
Explore more…
From rich culture and traditions to breathtaking nature, Zadar region has it all. So, learn more about what makes it stand out for an insightful and inspiring experience on holiday.
