Šibenik Old Town

Unlike the Venetian-founded Dalmatian ports of Zadar and Split, Šibenik was founded by Croatians themselves — first mentioned in a charter of King Petar Krešimir IV in 1066, making it the oldest continuously Croatian city on the Adriatic. This proud independent origin shows itself in the atmospheric medieval old town: a labyrinth of steep narrow limestone alleys climbing four hills from the harbour, connected by hundreds of stone stairways, hidden squares, and passageways just wide enough for a single person. Unlike the more manicured old towns further south, Šibenik retains a genuinely lived-in feel — laundry drying on lines above your head, cats owning the doorsteps, restaurant tables set right in the alleys. Four medieval fortresses ring the town: St. Michael's Fortress directly above the old town, St. John's on a hill just inland, Barone (also called Šubićevac) above that, and the great sea-fortress of St. Nicholas guarding the harbour mouth. Highlights of the old town itself include the magnificent Cathedral of St. James (see separate entry), the beautiful arcaded City Loggia on the main Republic of Croatia Square, and the Šibenik Bishop's Palace. Wander with no fixed plan — you will discover a new hidden square with a Renaissance well-head every 10 minutes.