Municipality of Pirovac: Bay, Marina and Local History

In Pirovac, a historic town centre, a marina in the centre and a bay with natural beaches come together. When planning your trip, you can consider whether you are most interested in local history, the landscape or activities on and around the water. The sights and activities described below relate to Pirovac; the section on Murter is separate.

Fortified local history and buildings

Until the mid-19th century, Pirovac was an island surrounded by walls. Stari grad Pirovac is a historic fortified settlement. On 16th- and 17th-century maps, the historic fortified settlement appears under the names Sloßeln or Sloslein. Access was via a drawbridge through Vrata sela. There, the gate features sections of 16th-century walls built in 1505 by Count Petar Draganić. A Templar cross is also carved into the foot of Vrata sela.

The churches also tell the story of different phases in the town’s development. In the centre of Stari grad Pirovac stands the 15th-century Church of St George. The Church of Gospe Karmelske in the old town centre was built in 1506 and reconstructed in the Baroque style in the 18th century. A pyramidal monument in Pirovac was unveiled in 1930.

For centuries, the castle of the Draganić-Vrančić family in Pirovac preserved valuable objects and documents of significance to Croatian history, including the will of Faust Vrančić. These landmarks give local history its different contours: fortifications and access, sacred architecture, and the legacy of preserving historical documents.

Bay, beach and views

Pirovac Bay shapes the landscape with numerous natural beaches and coves. It extends about ten kilometres into the rock. Lolić Beach has a playground, a slide and a trampoline for children. The beach also holds the Blue Flag. As the status of such an award can change, check it before your visit if needed.

From the Makirina viewpoint, at an elevation of about 113 metres, the view extends over Pirovac and the bay. The area of Makirina Hill is considered a microecological and ornithological reserve and is included in Natura 2000. In Makirina Bay, healing mud was first used by local residents and later increasingly by tourists.

Marina and activities

Pirovac Marina is in the centre of town and has 200 berths at sea. Given its proximity to Kornati and Krka National Parks, it is described as a suitable starting point for excursions, cruises and regattas. If you are planning a specific maritime activity, check the relevant dates and schedules: providers and schedules may change.

In Pirovac, diving and snorkelling offer ways to explore the underwater world of the Adriatic. Water skiing is described in tourist information as a popular activity in the bay. The walking and cycling trails in Pirovac are well signposted and suitable for different fitness levels; conditions and availability may vary seasonally. The different activities therefore offer different perspectives: trails let you explore the surroundings on foot or by bike, while diving and snorkelling take you beneath the water’s surface.

The taste of Pirovac

“Dalmatinska spiza” is one of Pirovac’s main gastronomic offerings. In restaurants, konobas and other dining establishments, seafood delicacies are traditionally prepared with local olive oil, regional spices and good wine.

Maritime heritage on Murter

On Murter, the shipbuilding tradition of Betina takes centre stage. A documentary about the shipbuilders of Betina is shown regularly at the Betina Museum of Wooden Shipbuilding, offering insight into the highlights of the local shipbuilding tradition. The skill and art of building the Betina gajeta has been recognised by the Croatian Ministry of Culture and protected as part of the intangible cultural heritage of the Republic of Croatia. Every year in late September, the Latinsko idro regatta takes place on Murter, reflecting its maritime tradition. If you plan to attend the regatta, check the date for your chosen year.

Colentum also offers a distinct historical perspective on Murter: the ancient site lies near the present-day settlement of Murter, and its remains are located at the foot of Gradina Hill. Today, Colentum is an archaeological park with viewpoints, walking trails and an archaeological beach.

Discover more destinations: Pirovac, Putičanje, Municipality of Poličnik, Municipality of Zadar, Municipality of Obrovac, Municipality of Starigrad, Municipality of Polača, Municipality of Biograd Na Moru.

Back to the wider travel overview: Zadar County.