Donatus of Zadar

Who is Donatus of Zadar?

Saint Donatus was an Irishman who became a Dalmatian bishop and a diplomat for the city of Zadar. His feast day is celebrated on February 25.

Donatus is mentioned in Frankish annals from 805 as an ambassador of the Dalmatian cities to Charlemagne in Thionville. Donatus began construction of a cathedral at Zadar to be called The Church of the Holy Trinity. The cathedral was finished in the beginning of the 9th century and in the 15th century. Its name was changed to the Church of St. Donatus.