Church of St. Simeon

About

The Church of St. Simeon is one of Zadar’s most treasured sacred landmarks, best known for housing the extraordinary Sarcophagus of St. Simeon, a masterpiece of medieval goldsmithing. Crafted in 1380 by the Milanese artist Francesco da Milano, this chest is made of cedar wood covered entirely in silver and gold reliefs. It depicts scenes from the saint’s life with remarkable detail, making it one of the finest examples of Gothic metalwork in Europe. The church itself blends Romanesque foundations with later Baroque additions. Its interior is warm and atmospheric, with a layout designed to highlight the sarcophagus, which rests above the main altar. The relics of St. Simeon—believed to be the same Simeon who held the infant Jesus during the Presentation at the Temple—have made the church an important pilgrimage site for centuries. Visitors should also look for the Baroque side altars, decorated with marble, gilded wood, and expressive sculptures typical of 17th‑century Dalmatia. The painted ceiling adds colour and movement to the otherwise sober architecture. A lesser‑known detail is the church’s connection to Zadar’s medieval confraternities, which funded much of its decoration and maintained the cult of St. Simeon.

Zadar Croatia

Location

The Church of St. Simeon, or Crkva sv. Simuna, is located in the very centre of Zadar's historic old town, just a short walk from Narodni trg, the People's Square. It is one of the most important churches in the city, built in different periods but best known for its Baroque interior and the famous silver chest of St. Simeon, a masterpiece of medieval goldsmith work and a symbol of Zadar's long history. From the outside it looks modest, but inside it holds one of the city's greatest treasures. Its central location makes it very easy to explore the rest of the old town. Right around the corner is Narodni trg, the lively main square with the City Guard building, the City Loggia and plenty of cafes where locals gather. A few minutes walk brings you to the ancient core with the Roman Forum, the iconic round Church of St. Donatus and the Cathedral of St. Anastasia with its tall bell tower that you can climb for a view over the rooftops and islands. The church is also close to the lively Kalelarga, the main street full of shops and restaurants, and to the waterfront. From there you can stroll to the famous Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun installations at the tip of the peninsula, which are especially beautiful at sunset.