Šibenik Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. James, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the city of Šibenik, Croatia. It is one of the most important Renaissance architectural structures in Croatia.
The cathedral was built over a period of 105 years, from 1431 to 1536. It was designed by several architects, including Juraj Dalmatinac, who started the project, and later Nikola Firentinac, who completed it. The cathedral's unique architecture combines Gothic and Renaissance styles, with the use of white stone from the nearby island of Brač.
The cathedral features a number of impressive elements, such as the intricate stone-carved frieze on the façade, the massive bell tower, and the impressive dome. Inside, visitors can admire the many stunning features, including the intricately carved stone baptismal font, the wooden choir stalls, and the intricate Renaissance-style pulpit.
One of the most unique features of the cathedral is its 72 sculpted faces on the exterior walls. Each one is unique and represents a different individual from Šibenik's history, including kings, saints, and notable figures from the city's past.
The cathedral was badly damaged during the Croatian War of Independence in the 1990s, but has since been restored and is now open to the public. It continues to be an important religious and cultural center in Croatia, and a popular destination for visitors interested in history, architecture, and art.