Murter: Beaches, Heritage and Kornati

Murter combines its proximity to Kornati National Park with maritime history, churches, archaeological traces and Slanica, a shallow sandy beach with a pebbled section. The following topics provide specific points of interest without defining Murter by just one reason to visit.

Murter and access to Kornati

Murter is 15 km from Kornati National Park and serves as a starting point for sailing trips towards the Kornati Islands. Murter is also the closest departure port to the Kornati Archipelago; the national park can only be reached from there by boat. If the park is part of your plans, this information gives you the distance and a possible way to get there. Specific excursions and schedules may vary, so check the connection for your travel dates.

Churches and religious traditions

St. Roch’s Church was built as a votive church in 1651 following plague epidemics. On St. Roch’s Day, 16 August, the saint’s statue is carried in a procession to St. Michael’s Church. This annual tradition links the two churches to a fixed date in Murter’s calendar. Classical concerts are also held at St. Roch’s Church in summer. If you plan to attend a concert, check the specific dates in advance. The parish church of St. Michael was restored in the 18th century and is known for its Baroque altar.

Colentum: Roman city and port settlement

The archaeological site of Colentum is classified as a Roman city dating from the 1st century BC to the 5th century AD. Colentum was also a port settlement, and remains of the harbour facilities have been preserved. Visible ancient remains lie at the foot of Gradina Hill and in the nearby underwater area. Visits to Colentum’s protected underwater archaeological area are part of the outdoor activities on offer. Organised dives around the Kornati Archipelago are also available.

Beach, promenade and trails

Slanica is a shallow sandy beach with a pebbled section along the shore. Facilities there include water slides and water parks; individual facilities may change over time. Check the latest information before visiting. The promenade at the Old Harbour runs along the entire waterfront and provides a route for a walk. It adds a waterfront route to the beach experience. If you would rather focus on being active, you can also consider three cycling routes and walking and jogging trails with viewpoints. Beach equipment is also available for hire.

Maritime traditions, olives and carnival

Murter’s maritime tradition includes traditional wooden boats, preserved sailing knowledge and the Latinsko idro regatta, held annually in late September. If you would like to plan your trip around the regatta, check the specific dates for your travel year. Olive culture also connects history with local food: the first written record of olive groves on Murter dates from the 14th century. The tradition includes harvesting olives for oil and local delicacies.

Murterski karneval, also known as Murterske Bake, has a tradition dating back 130 years. Costumes are individually designed and sewn by hand rather than bought commercially. Along with the regatta, the carnival shows another side of local traditions: costumes and design shape this custom, while boats and sailing knowledge are at the heart of the regatta.

The collection in the Sokolana building

The Zavičajna Zbirka Marka Mudronje Repca is located in the Sokolana building, on Murter’s oldest square in Staro selo. It contains more than 600 objects classified as protected cultural property and is divided into three exhibition areas with different themes.

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