n ABOUT: With its medieval old town complete with cobbled backstreets to explore and two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Sibenik is one of Croatia’s most beautiful cities. Located on the Adriatic coast it is often overlooked in favor of its more glamorous neighbors Split and Dubrovnik which both draw droves of tourists in, especially during the summer months.
n ATTRACTION: St James’ Cathedral is a highlight of a trip to Sibenik and is one of the city’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Constructed between 1431 and 1536 it is thought
to be the world’s largest church made completely of stone without brick or wooden supports and was constructed from stone quarried from the islands of Brac, Korcula, Rab and Krk. Look out for the frieze of 71 heads on the exterior walls at the back of the cathedral. Each one has a different expression and depicts ordinary citizens of the city in the 15th century. Inside, the intricate carved ceiling of the baptistery attracts attention, as do the other artworks including a 15th-century gothic crucifix.
n VIEW: One of the best views in Sibenik can be found from the top of the city’s second UNESCO
World Heritage Site – St Michael’s Fortress. Climb up the battlements of this medieval fort dating back to the 13th century and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Sibenik and the Adriatic islands. Visit during the summer months and you can take in a show at the open-air theatre, which is particularly atmospheric at sunset.
n MUSEUM: To find out more about Sibenik and its surrounds head to the Sibenik City Museum. Housed in the 17th-century Rector’s Palace it includes a permanent exhibition of artefacts that date from prehistory to the end of the Venetian period. It might not
have all the bells and whistles of more modern museums but a few video installations show interesting historic footage and there’s more than enough here to keep visitors busy for a few hours.
n EAT: Generally regarded as the city’s best restaurant, Pelegrini combines the freshest local ingredients with culinary influences from around the world to create traditional Croatian dishes with an imaginative twist. A good selection of Dalmatian wines compliments the food. Try and book a table on the picturesque terrace for stunning views of the cathedral.
