Zadar Sea Organ

Zadar Sea Organ

Zadar is a coastal city, about an hour and a half drive North from Split. The city expands along the coast, but there is one part of Zadar that is a favorite amongst tourists. A small peninsula jutting into the Adriatic Sea holds many of the city’s treasures. From green parks to Roman ruins, the peninsula makes for a great day of exploration. One of the most unique attractions of the peninsula however, is the Zadar Sea Organ.

When hearing the term ‘Sea Organ’, one might think of some sort of reef, fish, or echinoderm. You may be intrigued to find out that it is not a creature at all, but rather an architectural anomaly.

Where to Find it

The Sea Organ is located at the tip of the peninsula in Zadar. It is fairly difficult to miss as you walk along the coast. You can walk from the city center, or you can drive and park in one of the many parking lots along old city walls on the peninsula coastline. During your walk to the Zadar Sea Organ, you will come across other highlights including a lovely green park full of flowers, winding paths, and spectacular views of the shimmering Adriatic Sea.

You may also pass through the Roman Forum if you venture a bit inland on the peninsula. It is a cluster of ruins surrounding the city center of an ancient Roman city. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes along the way to the Sea Organ, as well as many small boats and large ships docked along the harbor.

You will know you are close once you hear the distinct sounds of the Sea Organ.

What is the Sea Organ?

So, now the answer to your question: What is the Sea Organ? It is the world’s largest aerophone, which is an instrument that makes noise primarily with the use of air. The 230 foot long organ is set amongst a series of steps that lead into the sea that visitors can sit on.

As the waves flow towards the steps and back, air is pushed into the 35 pipes that line the shore, creating a series of musical tones. The notes that are played create two major key chords that pay tribute to the harmonies found in Klapa music, which is a traditional form of a cappella singing that originated in Dalmatia.

The creation of music from the sea is something that is best experienced, as words can only begin to describe the mesmerizing tranquility of the carefully crafted structure.

Zadar and the Sea Organ

In 2005, Croatian architect Nikola Bašić designed the Sea Organ to bring some joy to the coastline of Zadar. The 3,000 year old city had been mostly destroyed during World War II, causing many famous and ancient landmarks to be lost forever.

The Sea Organ is now accompanied by a large solar-powered installation that is over 72 feet in diameter. The installation is called Monument to the Sun, which is made up of glass plates. The plates take in solar energy throughout the day, and produce a magical light show once the sun sets until it rises again.

The installations by Nikola Bašić have helped to bring more visitors to Zadar. They also incorporate creative ways to use natural energy to create something beautiful.

To experience the wonders of Zadar, consider signing up for one of our curated tours that stops in the city, such as our Best of the Region – Multi-City Tour or add it to the itinerary of your own custom tour. Be sure to contact us to begin planning your dream vacation!