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Cathedral of St. Anastasia Zadar

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Cathedral of St. Anastasia (Katedrala sv. Stošije) in Zadar is the largest church in Dalmatia and a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture along the Adriatic coast. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, it stands on the foundations of an early Christian basilica dating from the 4th and 5th centuries. The striking west facade is characterized by three ornate portals and two large rose windows, showcasing a strong Tuscan Romanesque influence. The structure suffered significant damage in 1202 during the Siege of Zadar by Crusaders, but was subsequently restored and expanded. Inside, the cathedral houses precious artifacts, including remnants of early Christian mosaics and a marble sarcophagus containing the relics of St. Anastasia, gifted by Byzantine Emperor Nikephoros. The bell tower reflects a long construction history: its base was completed in the 15th century, while the upper floors were added in the late 19th century following designs by the English architect Thomas Graham Jackson. Listed on UNESCO's tentative list of World Heritage sites, it continues to serve as the spiritual heart of the Archdiocese of Zadar.

Location: Croatia
Top sights: Archeological Museum Zadar · Tower of Sv. Stosija · Zlato i srebro Zadra
Nearby: Poljana, Ugljan (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	9	9	11	14	18	23	26	26	22	18	14	10
Rain mm	90	100	78	66	65	48	40	47	102	93	129	108

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Cathedral of St. Anastasia in Zadar is an important Romanesque building from the 12th and 13th centuries. It can be visited during opening hours, and the interior is rich in artistic treasures.

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Typical hours

The cathedral is usually open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a lunch break from 12:00 to 2:00 PM. On Sundays and holidays, hours are shorter and follow service schedules.

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Photography

Photography inside is allowed without flash. The Romanesque capitals and the altarpiece are especially photogenic; please do not disturb services.

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Time needed

Allow about 30 minutes for the interior visit. With climbing the bell tower and viewing the exterior facade, budget 45 minutes to an hour total.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with the Church of St. Donatus and the Roman Forum, located right next door. The Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation are also within walking distance.

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Getting there

The cathedral is centrally located in Zadar's car-free Old Town. The nearest parking garages are on the outskirts, a 10-15 minute walk away.

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Insider tip

Climb the bell tower for a fantastic view over Zadar and the islands. The ascent is a bit narrow, but the view makes it all worthwhile.

Geography

Coordinates

44.11580, 15.22530

Facts

Largest cathedral found in the region of Dalmatia
The present structure was mostly built in the 12th and 13th centuries
Sacked by the Crusaders during the Siege of Zadar in 1202
Contains a 9th-century sarcophagus with relics of St. Anastasia
The bell tower was completed in phases over 400 years
Features three distinct portals and two rose windows on its facade

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Church of St. Donatus<1 km · WExplore →

Gaženica Port Zadar4 km · SEExplore →

📍Poljana, Ugljan4 km · SWExplore →

📍Crno5 km · EExplore →

📍Lukoran5 km · WExplore →

📍Kožino6 km · NExplore →

📍Kali6 km · SExplore →

📍Bibinje7 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Cathedral of St. Anastasia Zadar (10)

Archeological Museum Zadar🏛 museum

Museum in Croatia, displaying archaeological finds from the Zadar region from prehistory to the Middle Ages.

🌐 amzd.hr🕒 Jan-Mar Mo-Fr 09:00-14:00; Jan-Mar Sa 09:00-13:00; Apr-May M💶

Tower of Sv. Stosija

Viewpoint tower in Zadar, offering a panoramic view of the city and the coast.

🕒 Mo-Sa 09:00-22:00💶

Zlato i srebro Zadra🏛 museum

Museum in Croatia, exhibition of gold and silver treasures from Zadar's history.

Samostan svete Marije

Monastery complex in Zadar, historic building with a church and cloister.

Kolomanov zvonik

Bell tower in Zadar, named after King Coloman, part of the former church.

Church of St. Donatus

Church in Zadar, Croatia, 9th-century circular Byzantine-style building.

Cathedral of Saint Anastasia

Cathedral in Zadar, seat of the diocese, Romanesque building from the 12th-13th centuries.

crkva svetog Krševana

Roman Catholic church building in Zadar, Croatia, 12th-century Romanesque church.

Biskupska palača🏰 castle

Building in Zadar, Croatia, bishop's palace next to the cathedral, historic seat.

City museum🏛 museum

City museum in Zadar, presenting the history and culture of the city.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is this the largest cathedral in Dalmatia?

Yes, it is the largest church in the Dalmatian region.

Can you climb the tower?

Yes, the bell tower gives a great view over Zadar and the sea.

What period does the building date from?

The current building is mainly in the 12th-century Romanesque style.

Where is the cathedral located?

In the center of Zadar's Old Town, not far from the Forum.

Are there entrance fees?

Visiting the church is usually free, but climbing the tower costs extra.

Cathedral of St. Anastasia Zadar: where is it located?

Cathedral of St. Anastasia Zadar is located in Croatia.

Cathedral of St. Anastasia Zadar: what is there to see?

Highlights include Archeological Museum Zadar, Tower of Sv. Stosija, Zlato i srebro Zadra.

Cathedral of St. Anastasia Zadar: when is the best time to visit?