Park of Vladimir Nazor, Zadar

The Park of Vladimir Nazor, once known as Blažeković Park, is the largest green space in Zadar, covering about 5.5 hectares. It occupies the site of the former Forte fortress, constructed in the 16th century under the supervision of Venetian general Sforza Pallavicino on the edge of the old Varoš suburb. The fortress originally housed barracks, warehouses, powder rooms, and cisterns, and was surrounded by defensive sea channels, earning the park its later nickname, the “Green Island.”

Between 1888 and 1890, Austrian governor for Dalmatia Dragutin Blažeković oversaw the transformation of the fortress grounds into a public park. At its opening in 1890, it was called the Military Park and, though accessible to the public, remained under military control. To preserve ownership rights, the army closed it one day each year, often under the pretext of military exercises. Following Blažeković’s retirement that same year and his death three years later, the park was renamed in his honor. A stone plaque still commemorates its construction.

The original layout included sandstone-lined paths, benches, lighting, and lush plantings. Early designs featured rose gardens, cypress avenues, and various ornamental species, many of which survive today. Pines planted over a century ago still stand tall, while laurels, once shrubs, have grown into large trees that now form dense canopies over parts of the lawns.

Access to the park was originally through the old western and eastern fortress gates. Before the park opened, the eastern canal was filled in, while the western one remained in place, separating it from the nearby Gradski Park. In 1909, a northern gate was added to connect with a newly built road, and a pond with a waterfall was installed near this entrance.

Renamed after Croatian poet Vladimir Nazor following World War II, the park has remained a cherished public space. Today, its shaded paths and expansive lawns offer a welcome escape from the summer heat. Visitors often enjoy its tranquil atmosphere, and many delight in meeting the friendly cats that have made the park their home.