Zadar Cathedral

Zadar Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Anastasia, is a Romanesque cathedral in the historic centre of Zadar, Croatia, and is the largest cathedral in the Dalmatian region. It is the city’s principal church and an important example of medieval ecclesiastical architecture on the Adriatic coast.

The cathedral features a Romanesque façade and an internal arrangement of aisles and chapels typical of large medieval cathedrals. The complex includes an adjacent bell tower and crypt spaces that are integral parts of the building’s plan.

Construction of the present Romanesque cathedral took place in the 12th and 13th centuries on the site of earlier Christian worship buildings; over the centuries it has been altered, repaired and refitted, preserving its medieval core while showing later interventions. It has continuously served as the main cathedral for the local archdiocese.

The cathedral occupies a central position within Zadar’s old town, close to the Roman Forum and waterfront. It is accessed on foot through the compact medieval streets of the city centre.

• Ecclesiastical seat: Serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of Zadar and is the principal Catholic church in the city.

What to See #

• Bell tower: The cathedral's bell tower stands adjacent to the main building and is a conspicuous element of Zadar's skyline dating to later medieval construction phases.
• Nave and crypt: The cathedral interior includes a multi-aisled Romanesque nave and associated sacristy and crypt spaces used for liturgical and episcopal functions.