Murter

Spreading out in the northern region of the island sharing the same name in a long bay is Murter, the oldest and largest settlement on the island. The island lies across from Pirovac on the mainland and belongs to the region of Sibenik in North Dalmatia. The more modern district of Murter extends along the spacious Bay of Hramina and has a newly built marina, while the older center of the village (Selo) lies at the foot of the Raduc Hill and is also called Upper Town. Murter was first mentioned in 1273 under the name of "Big Village" and today it has developed into a popular tourist destination with over 2,000 inhabitants. Long before Murter was first mentioned in written form, the Illyrians and Romans were already settling here. Various ruins, such as tools and the remains of a road and sewage system have been found here from the early Christian settlement of Murter. In the old town there is the Church of Sveti Mihovil (Saint Michael) that towers over the red tiled roofs of the rustic stone houses around the harbor. The Gradine Mountain provides beautiful vantage points and is also home to the remains of the Roman settlement of Colentum. This is the settlement that Murter later developed from.

Murter is an idyllic bathing and holiday resort with cobbled streets, stone walls covered with climbing plants and hospitable inhabitants, who live out their customs and traditions, especially during various events that take place in the summer months. Tourists find the "wedding in Murter", which is celebrated every August, fascinating. This festival is held to keep the old wedding customs of the inhabitants of Murter alive. At this festival, similar to any real wedding, there is a bride and a groom with groomsmen and guests who dance, sing and enjoy the regional delicacies. The inhabitants dress themselves in traditional costumes and do the traditional round dance in the main square of Murter. In addition, religious processions, the sailing regatta of Kornati Kup and Carnival in February, all traditionally take place here. Murter's restaurants and taverns offer a variety of cuisine from local and international dishes. Visitors should definitely make sure to taste the fresh fish and hearty meat dishes.

There is a nautical theme that plays a large role in and around Murter. The well-developed marina attracts many sailors and boat owners to the northwest of the island. Here you can enjoy not only the beautiful panorama and a well-protected location in the bay, but also the town's close proximity to the stunning Kornati Archipelago, whose headquarters are located in Murter. Lying only a few nautical miles to the southwest, the Kornati National Park is not only the most popular destination for boaters, divers and snorkelers, but also for every person on holiday. Half and full day boat excursions leave daily and include meals for you to enjoy in the fascinating island world.

Those wanting to spend their holidays in Murter and the surrounding environment, can do this on one of the beautiful beaches or by hiking and cycling through the hilly landscapes of this Mediterranean island. In addition to the city beach of Luke that extends into the bay of Murter, there are, especially on the west coast, beautiful beaches for families, older people and naturist visitors. Visitors should go to the wild beaches to run about with their dogs.