Maiden with the Seagull Statue

The Maiden with the Seagull statue is one of Opatija’s most recognizable landmarks, gracefully poised on a rocky promontory overlooking the shimmering waters of Kvarner Bay. Created by sculptor Zvonko Car in 1956, the statue has become a symbol of the city, drawing visitors to the Lungomare promenade for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The figure of the maiden, arm outstretched toward a seagull, captures a sense of harmony between land and sea, and is a favorite subject for photographs—especially with the backdrop of the Adriatic and passing boats.

The statue stands on the site where the “Madonna del Mare” once watched over the coastline. The original Madonna was erected as a memorial to Count Arthur Kesselstadt, who drowned in a storm in 1891. After the Madonna was damaged by weather, it was replaced by the Maiden with the Seagull; the restored Madonna now resides in the Croatian Museum of Tourism, with a gilded replica displayed in front of St. James Church.

A stroll along the Lungomare brings you directly to the statue, where you can pause to take in panoramic views and enjoy the fresh sea air. The Maiden with the Seagull not only offers a picturesque setting but also connects visitors to Opatija’s layered history and artistic heritage.