Sea Organ (Morske Orgulje)
Obala Petra Krešimira 4, Zadar, Zadar
Visitors to the Croatian city of Zadar are inevitably drawn to the melodious sounds emanating from the city’s most popular sight: the Sea Organ (Morske Orgulje). This massive underwater instrument, designed by architect Nikola Bašić, plays musical notes generated by the sea. The constantly shifting waves never play the same tune twice.
Much of Zadar’s waterfront was destroyed during the Second World War, and the Sea Organ was designed to help revitalize the city’s coast. Opened to the public in 2005, the organ is now a beloved site for tourists and locals alike. White marble steps lead down to the water concealing the 35 organ pipes that whistle and sing as the waves push air through them.
The Sea Organ is the perfect place to enjoy a memorable sunset over the Adriatic.
A visit to the organ is included in most walking tours of Zadar.
The Sea Organ gets busy in the evenings, so visit earlier in the day if you wish to avoid the crowds.
The Sea Organ is found on the northwestern end of Zadar’s Riva (seaside promenade) a short walk from the Ancona-Zadar ferry station and Zadar’s Monument to the Sun, another creative monument by Nikola Bašić. Just follow the sounds of the chimes and you’ll be sure to find it.
The Sea Organ gets busy in the evening, when crowds gather at Zadar´s Riva to watch the sunset over the Adriatic Sea. Arrive early to score a spot on the steps and enjoy the music of the tides and winds as you watch the sun lower into the sea. Visit during the early morning hours to enjoy the Sea Organ with fewer crowds.
Another creation by Nikola Bašić, Zadar’s Monument to the Sun is located a few steps from the Sea Organ. The monument is a circle 72 feet (22 meters) in diameter consisting of 300 multilayered glass plates with solar panels underneath. The panels absorb energy from the sun during the day, which is converted into electricity to power a unique light show at night. The Monument to the Sun also generates enough energy to power the entire waterfront at night.
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