Šibenik

Šibenik is a town located in Dalmatia region of Croatia, along the banks of the Krka river. It is considered a center of education, transport, and tourism in the area.

Sights & Activities

The Cathedral of St. James, which the locals refer to as the Cathedral of Sveti Jacov, is the town’s most popular tourist attraction. This is because the cathedral was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Construction of the structure started in the 15th century and was only completed more than a century later. Because of its gradual construction, the cathedral bears a combination of Gothic and Renaissance styles. When visitors explore this religious site, they will come upon a frieze located outside of the apse that bears numerous faces, representing some of the prominent residents of the town during the time of its construction. The interior of this structure is adorned with several beautiful works of art. Of particular interest is the baptismal font that is adorned with sculptures depicting prophets, angels, and the head of God the Father. Several of the town’s past bishops were buried in the cathedral, their resting places marked with decorated tombs.
After exploring the cathedral, visitors should also head out to the church of St. Barbara, located just behind the cathedral. Though small in size, the church features several interesting sculptures that were made during the 14th to the 18th centuries.
Also located nearby is the Rector’s Palace, a structure constructed in the 17th century. It is the present location of the Civic Museum that showcases numerous artifacts, including a collection of coins, gathered from areas within and around the town.
Across the cathedral is another noteworthy historical building, the Šibenik Town Hall. Built in the 16th century, this Renaissance structure is truly a wonderful sight, with columns and arches on its façade.
Another historic religious site in Šibenik is the Church of St. Francis, whose original structure was built in the 13th century. Only the cloister remained of that structure, with the rest of the church going through several reconstructions across the centuries. The present Baroque form of the church was acquired during the 18th century.
Visitors can also take a walk to a nearby hilltop, where the ruins of the St. Anne’s Fortress are located. This structure was built during the Medieval times and was rebuilt in the 16th century after being struck by lightning. Apart from visiting an ancient landmark, the site of the fort also provides spectacular views of the town.
Just outside the town is the Krka National Park, which features a number of waterfalls and lakes that visitors can head out to. This outdoor destination is also ideal for bird watching, being home to a huge number of bird species.
One of the largest annual events celebrated in Šibenik is the International Children’s Festival, which was started in 1958. It features several entertainment activities aimed for the education of children, including drama, puppet shows, musical performances, art workshops, film showings, and literary presentations.

Weather

The town’s climate is described as Mediterranean, with hot and dry summer and cold, wet winter. Those who come during the summer months may take advantage of the sea’s warm temperature to take a dip in one of the several beaches in the town. The best times to explore the town are during the months of April to October, when air temperature is pleasant enough to wander along the streets of Šibenik. As autumn nears its end and winter sets in, rain occurs more frequently. Winter can also get cold and frosty, necessitating the use of warm cloths and umbrella, as rain is expected to occur anytime.