Pag Old Town
Zadarska županija
Pag Old Town, located on the island of Pag in Croatia, is a remarkable example of medieval urban planning and Venetian architectural influence. The town was founded in 1443 after the inhabitants relocated from the original settlement due to Ottoman threats. It was designed according to Renaissance principles with a grid-like street layout featuring intersecting longitudinal and transversal streets forming a rectangular square. This square is home to significant landmarks such as the Collegiate Church, Duke's Palace, and the unfinished Bishop's Palace, all constructed under the supervision of the renowned architect and sculptor Giorgio da Sebenico. The Collegiate Church is a three-nave basilica with Gothic and Renaissance elements, housing valuable artworks including a Gothic wooden cross and silver reliquaries. The town walls, reinforced with nine towers, reflect its historical strategic importance. Pag Old Town also features Renaissance façades and noble family palaces that symbolize the town's historical wealth and cultural heritage. Its rich history includes periods under Croatian kings, the Hungarian kingdom, Venetian rule, and the Austrian monarchy, making it a culturally layered destination. Today, Pag Old Town attracts visitors with its authentic medieval charm, cultural monuments, and seaside ambiance.
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Tip: The best time to visit Pag Old Town is during late spring and early autumn to avoid peak summer crowds and enjoy pleasant weather. Visitors are advised to explore the town on foot to fully appreciate its narrow streets and historic architecture. Purchasing tickets in advance for guided tours of the Collegiate Church and other cultural sites is recommended during the tourist season. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official Pag tourism website for up-to-date information on opening hours and events.
Interesting facts
- •Pag Old Town was designed by the famous Venetian architect and sculptor Giorgio da Sebenico, also known as Juraj Dalmatinac.
- •The town's layout follows Renaissance urban planning principles with perpendicular street grids forming a rectangular central square.
- •Pag received one of the first town statutes in Croatia in 1433, establishing its early legal autonomy.
- •The Collegiate Church in Pag houses valuable artworks including a Gothic wooden cross and silver reliquaries.
- •The town walls are reinforced with nine towers, reflecting its historical defensive importance.
History
The name Pag was first mentioned in the 10th century when Croatian King Stjepan Držislav took control from Byzantine authority.
In 1244, King Béla IV granted Pag the status of a free royal town.
After suffering devastation in battles against Zadar in 1394, the inhabitants moved and founded the present town in 1443, designed by Venetian architects including Giorgio da Sebenico.
Pag was under Venetian rule for centuries after 1403, later becoming part of the Austrian monarchy in the 19th century.
The town experienced population decline in the early 20th century due to agricultural blights and emigration.
During the Croatian War of Independence in 1991, Pag's strategic location was crucial for connecting southern and northern Croatia.
Place Guide
Collegiate Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary15th-16th century
A three-nave basilica with Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements, featuring a Gothic portal, Renaissance rosette, and artworks such as the altar painting 'Our Lady of the Rosary' and a silver processional crucifix. Supervised by Giorgio da Sebenico, the church was completed in the early 16th century and restored in the 18th century.
Duke's Palace15th century
A Renaissance palace located on the central square, historically the residence of the town's duke and a symbol of local governance and nobility.
Town Walls and Towers15th century
Fortified walls surrounding Pag Old Town, strengthened with nine towers to protect against Ottoman invasions and other threats during the 15th century.
Contact
Phone: 023 600 830
