Visiting Zadar? Don’t miss the Sea Organ! This artistic musical installation transforms the natural movement of the waves into a spellbinding melody, offering a privileged moment overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
In this article, we’ll give you some useful tips on how to best prepare for your visit toZadar’s Organ of the Seas and make the most of this must-see attraction.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Why visit the Organ of the Seas?
Is the Organ of the Seas worth it? Our opinion:
Yes, the Organ of the Seas in Zadar is definitely worth a visit. This award-winning work of Contemporary Art, designed by architect Nikola Bašić, symbolizes the harmony between art and nature. It consists of 35 underground tubes integrated under marble steps, which produce sounds thanks to the buoyancy of air and waves. We were seduced by the unique sensory experience it offers.
Right next to the organ is another work by Nikola Bašić: the “Salute to the Sun”, a circular installation that captures daylight to create a light show at night.
The Organ of the Seas is one of Zadar’s top attractions!
Discover the Organ of the Seas and all Zadar’s treasures on a guided tour!
– Enjoy an informative and leisurely walking tour to discover Zadar’s history
– Visit Zadar’s hidden gems on a guided Eco Tuk Tuk tour
Why is the Orgue des Mers famous?
Inaugurated in 2005 and designed by architect Nikola Bašić, the organ consists of 35 polyurethane tubes concealed beneath the marble steps leading down to the sea. These tubes capture the thrust of the waves and the expelled air to create a changing melody, in perfect symbiosis with the maritime environment. The work was awarded the European Urban Public Space Prize in 2006, underlining its cultural and architectural significance.
Beyond its artistic dimension, the Organ of the Seas has become a strong symbol of Zadar, appreciated by locals and visitors alike for its ability to offer a moment of calm and contemplation. You’ll be seduced by this combination of art, nature and technology, which makes this installation an unmissable experience during your stay in Zadar.
Our favorite moments
During our visit to the Orgue des Mers, we were particularly struck by several moments:
- Listen to the natural melody of the organ: the sounds produced by the waves and wind through the tubes under the promenade are soothing and fascinating. Each moment is unique, as the music changes according to the strength of the waves and the weather.
- The Riva promenade: strolling along this promenade along the Adriatic Sea to the Orgue des Mers at its end was both relaxing and inspiring.
- Watching the sun set on the seafront, bathed in golden and orange hues, while being lulled to sleep by the sound of the organ, was a deeply moving and memorable moment.
History in brief
The Zadar Organ of the Seas, inaugurated in 2005, was conceived as part of the redevelopment of the waterfront after the war of independence. It was born of a desire to breathe new life into the Riva Promenade and invite contemplation. Since its creation, the organ has become one of Zadar’s poetic symbols, blending art, nature and architecture.
How to get there: The Organ of the Seas, Zadar
Where is the Orgue des Mers?
- At the northern end of the Promenade Riva, which runs along the Adriatic Sea,
- In the historic center of Zadar,
- In the immediate vicinity of Nikola Bašić’s other work: “Salute to the Sun”,
- Close to Zadar’s main attractions
How to get there?
The site is within easy walking distance of the city’s main attractions, via the Zadar Maritime Promenade: the Riva, which offers a pleasant stroll along the coastline. The promenade leads up to the marble staircase housing the organ’s unique sound installation, whose pipes are hidden beneath the surface.
Orge des Mers is not served by public transport.
Parking
If you’re coming by car, be aware that parking can be difficult in Zadar’s historic center. We recommend the nearest parking lot, ideally located near the picturesque Port of Foša, where the Riva begins. From here, it’s a 10-minute walk to the organ.
Useful tips: duration, schedules, eating…
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Zadar’s Organ of the Seas is in the early morning, when it’s still quiet and uncrowded. Sunset is also a magical time to enjoy the golden hues of the Adriatic Sea, while listening to the natural melodies produced by the organ. However, this tour of Zadar can be taken at any time of day, depending on your schedule and your mood!
Length of visit and main difficulties
The Orgue des Mers tour takes place in the open air along Zadar’s seafront promenade. Allow 15 minutes to explore the site, but you can spend more time at your own pace, listening to the sounds produced by the waves. The site is accessible to all, without any particular physical effort, and presents no major difficulties.
Visiting with children
We think that discovering the Organ of the Seas is an excellent activity to do with the whole family during your stay in Zadar. We’ve noticed children of all ages captivated by the natural music created by waves and wind. This interactive experience stimulates their curiosity and wonder. The site is accessible by stroller and presents no major obstacles, making it easy to visit with younger children. It’s a playful, sensory place, ideal for awakening children to art and nature.
The Zadar Organ of the Seas: a work of architecture and poetry
The Zadar Organ of the Seas is an architectural and musical feat imagined by Nikola Bašić(+ more info). We learned that during the design stage, he surrounded himself with sound engineer Ivan Stamać and hydraulic engineer Vladimir Andročec. Together, they came up with this unique installation that stretches 75m along the Riva Promenade Maritime, where 35 polyurethane tubes are placed beneath marble steps. As the waves push the water, air is expelled through these tubes, producing precise notes that compose a natural melody.
Did you know that the pipes were designed and tuned by an organ workshop? The choice was made to use a corrosion-resistant and stable material to guarantee sound quality. Nothing was left to chance! Note the tube outlets, visible on the steps: they take the form of what the artist calls “white houses”, from which the sounds escape.
Listen to the sea play: a unique experience in Zadar
Visiting the Organ of the Seas in Zadar, we were captivated by the unique melody created by the interaction between water and wind. Each wave that hits the tubes beneath the promenade triggers a note, while the sea breeze modulates these sounds, forming an ever-changing natural symphony. This soundscape, both soothing and fascinating, invites a rare sensory immersion, where nature becomes a musician.
We recommend that you take the time to stroll along the Riva and then take a seat on the organ steps. You’ll enjoy a privileged moment listening to this work of sonic art. We particularly appreciated the softness of the notes, combined with the sound of the waves and the breeze, creating a contemplative atmosphere. This installation is a powerful symbol of the city, combining architectural innovation with respect for the environment. It offers a memorable experience, proposing a harmonious dialogue between the Adriatic Sea and human creativity.
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