The island is in the northwest part of the Šibenik archipelago, separated from the mainland by a 20 m (66 ft) wide sea canal at Tisno which is
spanned by a short draw-bridge. The island covers an area of about 18.7 km2 (7.2 sq mi), and the highest point is the peak of Raduč at 125 metres (410 feet) above sea level.
The southwestern coastline is predominantly steep slopes divided by many sandy coves. The island has lots of rocky beaches, as well as several sandy ones.
Other settlements on the island include the small town of Betina on the northwestern side and Jezera and Tisno on the southeastern coast.
The island has been populated for nearly two millennia. An Illyric-Roman settlement known as Colentum has been found near Betina.
In 1293, documents show that Murter was called "Villa Magna' meaning big village.
During the 13th century there were two documented settlements on the island—Jezera and Veliko selo, Srimač (now Murter) -- and the island itself was
mentioned in the year 1318 as Insula Mortari. Betina and Tisno were most likely built around the beginning of the 15th century, during the time of Ottoman attacks in the area.
The population of the island increased as refugees fled from the Turks. In the 2011 census, the total island population is about 5,138 inhabitants.
Murter is the largest town on the island with the same name, which includes over 160 islands, islets and reefs in Kornati archipelago. It is
located on the north-western part of the island. The authentic stone streets with the archways, the simple peasant houses, and stone walls covered with
climbing plants in the old part of Murter preserve life as it was once was - an old Roman settlement with luxurious villas.
Today, this is all made visible by the numerous sites on the island and in the sea. It is a very interesting place for sailors because of the marinas
and the vicinity of the Kornati islands. If you are not a sailor, the sandy bays (Slanica), very warm, clear sea and good fun will certainly attract your attention.
The most popular are water sports - wind surfing, water ski, scooter racing, diving, beach volleyball.... For those who like tennis there are 4 ground courts in a neighbourhood as well as several table tennis playgrounds. This is absolutely fantastic place with the offer for adoults, teenagers and kids.
