Ostrovica brings together traces of a prehistoric Liburnian settlement, a history of medieval fortifications and a viewpoint at Mačkov kamen. Visitors looking to combine cultural history and hiking in one trip will find a range of points of interest here, from Gradina and the village churches to views of Ravni kotari, Lake Vrana and the Šibenik archipelago.

Gradina, the Fortress and the Rural Settlement Pattern

The plateau at Gradina in Ostrovica contains the remains of a prehistoric Liburnian settlement. These provide a distinct point of reference alongside the medieval history of Ostrovica Fortress, which stood on Mačkov kamen. Its strategic location allowed the routes connecting the areas of Zadar and Nin with Knin and Skradin to be controlled. Several branches of the Croatian noble Šubić family ruled the fortress for the longest period.

Ostrovica’s rural settlement pattern is also part of its character. This includes the Kvarcina castle complex and the remains of traditional buildings in Bačkulići. These are two distinct aspects of the area’s architectural history that can be considered alongside its archaeological and medieval heritage.

Churches and Local History

The Church of St Luke in Ostrovica is an Orthodox church with a cemetery. The Church of St Anthony served as a military chapel; soldiers’ graves, including those of foreigners, were found around it. The two churches therefore represent different historical focuses. On 13 June in 2020 and 2024, the Feast of St Anthony of Padua was celebrated at the Church of St Anthony. If you would like to plan a future trip around this feast, confirm the date locally in advance.

Hiking Trail and Views at Mačkov kamen

Mačkov kamen is a point on a hiking trail and also a viewpoint. From there, the view stretches across Ravni kotari, Lake Vrana and the Šibenik archipelago, as well as Ostrovica and Lišane. Two interests meet at this named location: Mačkov kamen is associated both with the views and with the history of the medieval fortress. Visitors focused on the landscape can take in the views described here, while those interested in the fortress’s history can explore another aspect of the place.

Culture in the Wider Destination of Općina Lišane Ostrovičke

The cultural character of the wider destination of Općina Lišane Ostrovičke extends beyond individual villages. Traditional songs and dances are kept alive throughout the wider area. Lišanska misa is a traditional religious singing practice related to the secular singing of the area around Lišane. Cvitare and dipla are also part of the musical heritage. During the Kukulešće, men and women hold hands and dance in a circle, with their feet planted firmly and jumping to the rhythm of the cvitare player. Cvitare were played in Lišane during circle dances; dipla are traditional wind instruments made from specially treated goat or sheep hide and played with six fingers. This tradition continues at competitions and ethnographic events.

Getting There in the Municipal Area

The transport links of Općina Lišane Ostrovičke are also relevant for getting your bearings in the wider area: the Zadar–Benkovac–Kistanje–Knin road and the Zadar–Knin railway line run through the municipality. The “Pirovac” motorway interchange on the Adriatic Motorway is 15 kilometres from the municipality. These details describe transport at the municipal level; check rail connections and road conditions separately for your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Mali Iz.

View the wider travel guide: Zadar County.