Split
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Split is the second largest city in Croatia and has a population of just over 150,000. It grew out of the Roman palace of Emperor Diocletian, which still forms the core of the historic center. People still live, work, and gather in the palace, making it a unique example of an inhabited ancient monument. The city has a strong local identity, expressed in speech, everyday life, and a special connection with the Hajduk football club.
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Points of interest
#1
HNK kazalište
Stigli ste pred Hrvatsko narodno kazalište u Splitu koje je otvoreno 6. svibnja 1893. godine. Odmah po otvaranju postalo je jedno od najvećih kazališta na Balkanu, s oko 1100 mjesta. Prva desetljeća rada obilježio je dolazak putujućih trupa iz Italije, Češke i drugih hrvatskih gradova jer stalni profesionalni ansambl nije postojao. Krajem 19. i početkom 20. stoljeća izvedbe su često bile podijeljene na domaće i strane trupe, a 1920. godine prvi je put osnovan profesionalni dramski ansambl pod nazivom Narodno pozorište za Dalmaciju, što nije dugo potrajalo. Godine 1940. kazalište je ponovno obnovljeno i službeno dobilo današnji naziv, a prvi intendant bio je Ivo Tijardović. Tijekom talijanske okupacije 1941. rad kazališta je obustavljen, ali je nakon rata, od 1. srpnja 1945., nastavljen bez prekida. U veljači 1970. godine požar je uništio zgradu, pa su se izvedbe održavale u zamjenskim prostorima sve do 1980. kada je otvorena obnovljena zgrada prema projektu arhitekta Boška Rašice. Na krovu kazališne zgrade se od 1893. nalazi kip Apolona, koji je prepoznatljiv simbol HNK-a i često tema rasprava zbog svojih dimenzija i izgleda. Splitska publika poznata je po jasnim reakcijama, što je utjecalo na mnoge nastupe i gostovanja – nakon predstava često se moglo čuti i odobravanje i negodovanje. Kazalište je organizator festivala Splitsko ljeto, na kojem nastupaju domaći i strani umjetnici i koji se održava na različitim atraktivnim lokacijama po gradu, poput Peristila. HNK Split danas kontinuirano djeluje s programom opere, baleta i drame, zadržava status zaštićenog kulturnog dobra i središte je kazališnog života Dalmacije.
#2
Plaža Bačvice
Stojite na najpoznatijoj splitskoj plaži – Bačvicama. Plaža je posebna po svom plitkom, mekanom pješčanom dnu koje se širi desecima metara od obale. Tijekom dana ovo je najomiljenije splitsko kupalište gdje dolaze obitelji s djecom, sportaši i izletnici uživajući u sigurnim plićacima, dok se navečer pretvara u živopisno središte noćnog života, ispunjeno barovima i klubovima. Uvala je duga oko 600 metara, a pješčani dio proteže se na oko 180 metara. Ovdje je rođena i poznata splitska igra picigin, koju lokalci i gosti igraju gotovo svakodnevno i po kojoj su Bačvice nadaleko poznate; toliko da se upravo ovdje redovito održava Svjetsko prvenstvo u piciginu. Kvaliteta mora i sadržaja prepoznata je i Plavom zastavom, a tijekom ljeta plaža zna ugostiti i više od deset tisuća kupača dnevno, što potvrđuje njezinu popularnost. Plićaci su sigurni za djecu i neplivače, a nadomak plaže nalazi se i znamenita crkva Gospe od Pojišana. Iza današnjeg šarenila i vesele vreve krije se zanimljiva povijest. Naziv Bačvice seže u srednji vijek, a prvi se put spominje još u 11. stoljeću pod imenom Butisello, odnosno Botticelle za vrijeme Mlečana. U to su vrijeme ovdje bili vinogradi, vrtovi i tek pokoja kamena kuća na rubu grada. Tijekom 17. stoljeća na tadašnjem poluotoku uz Bačvice (današnji Park pomorca) podignuta je utvrda radi obrane prilaza luci, a prostor današnje plaže služio je i kao gradsko groblje u vrijeme kužnih epidemija krajem 18. stoljeća. Prvo drveno kupalište podignuto je 1891. godine, kad se plaža počinje uređivati za javno kupanje, a zanimljivo je spomenuti kako su tada žene i muškarci kupali odvojeno sve do početka 20. stoljeća. Priča o Bačvicama obiluje anegdotama, poput one iz Drugog svjetskog rata kada su mještani, zbog nestašice ogrjeva, zapalili stare drvene stative za nogomet s plaže, ili priče o prvoj ženi u Splitu koja je na Bačvicama obukla dvodijelni kupaći kostim izazvavši tadašnje zgražanje. Poseban je šarm plaža Bačvice stekla i zahvaljujući kultnom televizijskom spotu za piće "Pipi" s Anom Sasso iz 1983. godine, koji i danas simbolizira vedrinu i ljetnu bezbrižnost Splita.
#3
Zapadna obala
Zapadna obala u Splitu elegantno se proteže zapadno od Dioklecijanove palače, nadovezujući se na poznatu Rivu. Dužina joj je 623 metra, a cijela šetnica popločana je bijelim bračkim kamenom, što pridonosi njezinu modernom i prestižnom izgledu. Ovaj dio grada brzo je postao novo središte okupljanja Splićana i turista zahvaljujući luksuznoj marini s vezovima za brodove i jahte, restoranima i kafićima, kao i očaravajućem pogledu na more i panoramu starog grada. Hortikulturna rješenja karakterizira tipično mediteransko bilje, a urbani prostor obogaćen je i biciklističkom stazom. Posebnost ovom prostoru daju brončane ploče s imenima splitskih olimpijskih medaljaša koje svjedoče o bogatoj sportskoj tradiciji grada. Zapadna obala funkcionalno i estetski povezuje modernu arhitekturu s prirodnim ambijentom, a njezina dostupnost pješice, biciklom, automobilom i javnim prijevozom olakšava dolazak iz svih dijelova grada. Svojom privlačnošću i ugostiteljskom ponudom, ovo je nezaobilazno mjesto za šetnje, druženja i uživanje u mediteranskom ugođaju, a istovremeno i snažan simbol suvremene urbane regeneracije Splita, gdje se tradicija skladno prožima s novim sadržajima i doživljajima.
#4
Grgur Ninski
Stojite pred jednim od najpoznatijih spomenika u Splitu – kipom Grgura Ninskog, remek-djelom Ivana Meštrovića koji simbolizira borbu za hrvatski jezik i identitet. Ovaj impozantni biskup s podignutom rukom nije samo skulptura – on je znak hrvatskog kulturnog preporoda. Grgur Ninski bio je znameniti ninski biskup iz 10. stoljeća, poznat kao jedan od najvažnijih hrvatskih crkvenih velikana koji se istaknuo kao zagovornik uvođenja starohrvatskog jezika i glagoljice u crkveno bogoslužje, suprotstavljajući se tadašnjoj ekskluzivnoj uporabi latinskog jezika koju je nametala rimska crkva. Time je značajno pridonio očuvanju hrvatskog jezičnog identiteta, kulturne tradicije i pismenosti. Povijesno je potvrđeno da je imao potporu hrvatskog kralja Tomislava, a nakon crkvenih sabora održanih u Splitu 925. i 928. godine njegova je biskupija ukinuta, a on premješten u biskupiju u Skradinu. Lik Grgura Ninskog ovjekovječen je u poznatom spomeniku – monumentalnoj brončanoj skulpturi koju je izradio hrvatski kipar svjetskoga glasa Ivan Meštrović. Spomenik je izrađen i prvotno postavljen 1929. godine na splitskom Peristilu, glavnom gradskom trgu, no nakon Drugog svjetskog rata privremeno je uklonjen, a kasnije je trajno premješten na današnju lokaciju odmah pokraj Zlatnih vrata, sjevernog ulaza u povijesnu jezgru Splita. Ovaj kip visine oko 8,5 metara smatra se jednim od najprepoznatljivijih i najomiljenijih simbola grada, nezaobilaznim dijelom njegove kulturne i turističke ponude. Najpoznatiji i najzanimljiviji detalj statue jest lijevi palac Grgura Ninskog. Prema lokalnoj legendi, posjetitelji koji dotaknu i protrljaju taj palac i zažele želju, da će im se ista ostvariti. Upravo zbog ove tradicije deseci tisuća posjetitelja svake godine dodiruju kip, a već desetljećima vidljivo je kako je palac izlizan do sjaja i blistaviji nego ostatak statue, što simbolično potvrđuje njegovu važnost u narodnoj predaji i popularnosti. Izvan Splita, Meštrović je izradio još dva spomenika Grguru Ninskom – u Varaždinu i rodnome Ninu, međutim upravo je splitski kip najprepoznatljiviji i najslikaniji.
#5
Đardin
Dobrodošli u Đardin, službeno poznat kao Strossmayerov perivoj, omiljenu gradsku zelenu oazu smještenu neposredno sjeverno od Dioklecijanove palače, kod Zlatnih vrata. Ovaj park, okružen ostacima mletačkih bastiona iz 17. stoljeća, od 1859. godine preuzeo je ulogu glavnog gradskog perivoja i od tada je ključna točka okupljanja stanovnika Splita i posjetitelja grada. Park je tijekom povijesti više puta preuređivan, a posljednja temeljita obnova provedena je 2002. godine. Tada su ogradni zidovi ukrašeni stihovima Tina Ujevića, a na zapadnom dijelu parka postavljena je moderna fontana. U središtu Đardina nalazi se poznata fontana s figurom "Putta" – anđeoskog lika iz klesarske radionice Pavla Bilinića, što parku daje osebujan vizualni pečat. Đardin je mnogo više od zelene površine – okružen je važnim gradskim znamenitostima: tu su veličanstveni spomenik biskupu Grguru Ninskom, skulptura Ivana Meštrovića, ostaci srednjovjekovnog samostana sv. Eufemije, a neposredna blizina Galerije umjetnina dodatno ističe kulturnu vrijednost ove lokacije. Tijekom godine Đardin je živ centar društvenih i kulturnih događanja u Splitu: ovdje se održavaju brojni festivali, koncerti, izložbe i sajmovi. U ljetnim danima park pruža hladovinu i mir, dok je zimi mjesto šarenih ukrasa i adventskih događanja.
#6
Crkva i samostan sv. Frane
Crkva i samostan sv. Frane smješteni su na zapadnom kraju splitske Rive, na mjestu gdje je u ranom srednjem vijeku stajala crkvica sv. Feliksa, mučenika iz doba cara Dioklecijana. Franjevci konventualci stigli su u Split u 13. stoljeću i na tom su mjestu izgradili jednobrodnu crkvu uz koja su osnovali samostan, u sklopu kojeg se nalazi i srednjovjekovni klaustar. Unutar crkve nalazi se nekoliko oltara, među kojima je najvrijednije slikano gotičko raspelo Blaža Jurjeva Trogiranina iz ranog 15. stoljeća. Posebno je značajan i rimski sarkofag s prikazom „Prijelaz preko Crvenog mora“, smješten u glavnom oltaru i jedan od najljepših primjera ranokršćanske umjetnosti na ovim prostorima. Samostan je građen i proširivan tijekom stoljeća; klaustar potječe iz 13. stoljeća, dok suvremeni izgled potiče iz početka 20. stoljeća nakon obnovnih radova. U crkvi i samostanu pokopani su neki od najistaknutijih Splićana, uključujući Marka Marulića i Ante Trumbića, čiji je sarkofag izradio Ivan Meštrović. Samostanska knjižnica čuva oko 3000 knjiga, uključujući materijale iz 16. stoljeća, a arhiv i riznica sadrže značajne glazbene i sakralne predmete. Crkva nosi počasni naslov „Mali panteon hrvatskog naroda“ zbog svoje bogate zbirke umjetnina i značajnih grobnica.
#7
Bajamontuša
Nalazite se ispred mjesta gdje je nekad stajala čuvena Bajamontuša, odnosno Monumentalna fontana, koja je krasila splitsku obalu ispred impresivnog trga Prokurative u drugoj polovici 19. i prvoj polovici 20. stoljeća. Ova velika fontana simbolizirala je dolazak prve tekuće pitke vode u Split – jedan od najvažnijih događaja u povijesti grada. Fontanu je inicirao tadašnji napredni načelnik Splitа, dr. Antonio Bajamonti, a isklesao ju je talijanski kipar Luigi Ceccon prema narudžbi i projektu iz milanske radionice F. Dall’Ara e Comp. Gradnja je bila pravo građansko djelo: sredstva je prikupilo čak 1.322 darovatelja, među kojima su bili važni građani, umjetnici i akademici, a sakupljeno je oko 20.000 forinti – golemi iznos za to doba. Fontana je otvorena 1888. godine, neposredno nakon što je izgrađen i gradski vodovod s izvorom na rijeci Jadro. Impresionirala je bogatom dekoracijom – alegorijske skulpture prikazivale su rijeku Jadro, Jadransko more i razne morske figure, dok je vrh fontane krasila figura mladića koji podignutom rukom pokazuje prema istoku, simbolizirajući razvoj i budućnost Splita. Bajamontuša je ubrzo postala omiljeni motiv na razglednicama i fotografijama te ponosni simbol urbanog i gospodarskog napretka grada. Nažalost, 1947. godine fontana je srušena po nalogu tadašnjih vlasti zbog političkih razloga – kao neželjen podsjetnik na prošle režime. Danas se njezini očuvani dijelovi čuvaju u Gradskom muzeju Splita, a originalna lokacija ostaje trajni podsjetnik na doba velikih gradskih promjena. Iako izvorni spomenik više ne postoji, na ovom istom mjestu postavljena je nova, suvremena fontana kružnog oblika. Ova minimalistička moderna fontana, projektirana 1947. godine prema zamisli arhitekta Milorada Družeića, svojim jednostavnim bazenom s vodoskokom i cvjetnim nasadima odlikuje se nenametljivim dizajnom. Iako estetski i povijesno nije usporediva s izvornom Bajamontušom, nova fontana simbolizira kontinuitet javne funkcije ovog prostora.
#8
Villa Dalmacija
Dobrodošli pred Villu Dalmaciju, čija veličanstvena rezidencija na južnim obroncima park-šume Marjan krije priču o tome kako je privatna vila postala predsjednička rezidencija, a danas je prestižno mjesto za najluksuznija vjenčanja i događanja u Splitu. Priča počinje 1914. godine kada je čehoslovački poduzetnik Franjo Schiller na marjanskoj obali sagradio vilu i dao joj ime Villa Schiller. Schiller je bio vizionar koji je prepoznao potencijal Splita kao turističke destinacije i vilu zamislio kao prvi pansion u gradu, mjesto gdje bi gosti mogli uživati u mediteranskom životu daleko od ratova koji su potresali Europu. No, povijest je imala druge planove. Nakon Drugog svjetskog rata, 1947. godine, vila je nacionalizirana i postala rezidencija Josipa Broza Tita, tadašnjeg predsjednika Jugoslavije. Od tada vila nosi ime Villa Dalmacija i transformira se u luksuznu predsjedničku rezidenciju. Tito je vilu koristio kao mjesto odmora i opuštanja, a prostorije su bile opremljene luksuznim namještajem tog doba, dok je vrt uređen s mediteranskim biljem i fontanama. Na njezinim terasama boravili su i svjetski državnici poput Winstona Churchilla i Indire Gandhi, a vila je bila poprište važnih političkih razgovora i diplomatskih susreta. Danas Villa Dalmacija predstavlja eskluzivnu lokaciju za vjenčanja i privatne događaje u Hrvatskoj. Romantična terasa uz more s karakterističnim lukovima, fontanama i stepenicama koje vode izravno u more čini je idealnim mjestom za svečane ceremonije. Kompleks se prostire na više od 57.000 četvornih metara i uključuje glavnu zgradu, pomoćne objekte i prostrani park s bogatim mediteranskim raslinjem. Privatna plaža i pomorski vez dodatno naglašavaju ekskluzivnost ove lokacije. Ono što Villu Dalmaciju čini posebnom jest njezina sposobnost da spoji luksuz s poviješću. Prostorije su i danas očuvane u duhu Titove epohe, pa gosti imaju priliku osjetiti atmosferu vremena kada su ovdje donosene odluke koje su oblikovale regiju. Iako ne služi kao javna lokacija već isključivo za događanja, često se navodi kao jedno od najpoznatijih i najtraženijih mjesta za vjenčanja u Hrvatskoj.
#9
Galerija Meštrović
Nalazite se ispred Galerije Meštrović, impresivne rezidencije smještene na splitskim Mejama, podno šumovitog Marjana, s pogledom na jadranske otoke i okružene mirisnim mediteranskim vrtom. Ova reprezentativna vila, projektirana prema zamisli Ivana Meštrovića, hrvatskog kipara svjetskog glasa, građena je između 1931. i 1939. godine uz pomoć arhitekata Lavoslava Horvata i Harolda Bilinića. Prostor je Meštrović zamislio ne samo kao svoj obiteljski dom i atelijer, nego i kao izložbeni prostor u kojem će umjetnost prirodno koegzistirati s arhitekturom i krajolikom. Nakon izdašne Meštrovićeve donacije – kojom je Splitu darovao vilu i cijeli niz svojih djela – Galerija je otvorena javnosti 1952. godine. Danas u stalnom postavu možete razgledati izbor od gotovo 200 skulptura, više stotina crteža, slika i arhitektonskih nacrta, a zbirka uključuje i originalni namještaj te dokumentaciju i predmete iz umjetnikove svakodnevice. Kroz prostrane i svijetle dvorane prizemlja vodi vas postav koji počinje u središnjoj mramornoj sali s najpoznatijim skulpturama, dok blagovaonica ostavlja dojam intimnog, obiteljskog života slavnog umjetnika. Istočno krilo prizemlja rezervirano je za sakralna djela – poput drvenih Adama i Eve i monumentalne Pietà – a kat donosi izložbu inspiriranu različitim stilovima, od secesije do art-décoa, kao i cikluse vezane uz teme Biblije. Galerija Meštrović čuva i bogati arhiv s osobnim pismima, fotografijama i bilješkama, kroz koji možete dublje upoznati život i razvoj ovog iznimnog umjetnika – od Beča, preko Zagreba do Splita. Sama građevina i njen sklad s okolišem predstavljaju jedinstven umjetnički doživljaj, gdje vrt i pogled na more postaju dijelom cjelokupne estetske vizije.
#10
Zvončac
Zvončac je zapadni dio Splita smješten uz samu morsku obalu, neposredno na početku Marjana i Zapadne obale. Riječ je o prostranom gradskom parku koji lokalno stanovništvo doživljava kao zelenu oazu idealnu za šetnje, rekreaciju i opuštanje s djecom i kućnim ljubimcima. Park je posebno živ tijekom ljeta, kad postaje jedno od središta festivalskih događanja u Splitu, među kojima se ističe Split Park Festival s koncertima, DJ večerima i raznovrsnim kulturnim programima na otvorenom. Povijest Zvončaca veže se uz biljku zvonaču, prema kojoj je ovaj dio grada i dobio ime, a kombinacija blizine Marjana, susjednog elitnog kvarta Meje, marine i nekoliko kafića te restorana čini ovu lokaciju vrlo poželjnom i među građanima i među brojnim posjetiteljima. Zvončac se profilirao kao mjesto svakodnevne rekreacije poput trčanja, bicikliranja i sportskih aktivnosti, ali i kao punkt za druženja i spontan boravak na otvorenom, uz sportske terene u blizini, među kojima se izdvaja vaterpolo klub VK Zvončac.
#11
Sustipan
Sustipan se nalazi na jugozapadnom rubu Splita, između zapadne obale gradske luke i uvale Zvončac. Danas je to javni park i šetalište smješteno uz more, ali prostor ima bogatu i značajnu povijest koja seže u rani srednji vijek. U ranokršćanskom razdoblju na Sustipanu je postojao **benediktinski samostan sv. Stjepana pod borovima**, po kojem je područje i dobilo ime (lat. *sub Stephano* – ispod Stjepana). Samostan je bio važan vjerski i kulturni centar Splita, a nalazio se uz staru crkvu sv. Stjepana. Tijekom srednjeg vijeka samostan je bio središte duhovnog života i posjedovao značajnu zemlju i utjecaj u gradu. Zatvoren je u 19. stoljeću, a danas od njega nisu sačuvane veće strukture, osim djelomičnih ostataka temelja. U 19. stoljeću Sustipan je pretvoren u **gradsko groblje**, koje je bilo jedno od najljepših i najuređenijih u Dalmaciji. Arhitektonski je bio bogato oblikovan, s arkadama, kapelicama i spomenicima, a ovdje su bili sahranjeni brojni poznati građani Splita. Groblje je međutim uklonjeno 1940-ih godina, u skladu s tadašnjom politikom urbanističkog preuređenja grada. Spomenici i posmrtni ostaci su premješteni, a prostor je pretvoren u javni park. Danas je Sustipan **uređena zelena površina** s borovom šumom, šetnicom i klupama uz more. Ovdje se nalazi i **mala neoromanička rotunda**, sagrađena u 19. stoljeću kao dio nekadašnjeg groblja. S lokacije se pruža panoramski pogled na luku, Marjan i srednjodalmatinske otoke. Sustipan je popularno mjesto za šetnje, odmor i često organizirana vjenčanja.
#12
Park šuma Marjan
Marjan je brdo koje se uzdiže na zapadnom dijelu Splita, a već više od jednog stoljeća ima status zaštićenog područja. Danas je proglašen **park-šumom** i predstavlja jedno od najvažnijih mjesta za rekreaciju, odmor i boravak u prirodi za stanovnike Splita i posjetitelje grada. Površina park-šume iznosi oko 340 hektara, uključujući šumski prostor, staze, plaže i kulturno-povijesne objekte. Povijesni zapisi pokazuju da je Marjan bio naseljen još u antičko doba. Tijekom srednjeg vijeka ovdje su se podizale crkvice, koje su i danas sačuvane – poput sv. Nikole, sv. Jerolima i sv. Jure. U 13. i 14. stoljeću područje se koristilo i za ispašu i za vinograde. U 19. stoljeću počinje organizirana sadnja borova i ozelenjivanje prostora, a 1852. godine sagrađena je prva službena promenada. Park-šuma je službeno zaštićena 1964. godine. Marjan ima više uređenih **pješačkih i biciklističkih staza**, vidikovaca, plaža i kulturnih točaka. S vidikovaca poput **Prve i Druge vidilice**, ali i s vrha Marjana (178 metara nadmorske visine), moguće je vidjeti cijeli Split, Kaštelanski zaljev, Mosor i srednjodalmatinske otoke. Na južnim obroncima nalaze se poznate plaže (Kašjuni, Bene, Prva voda), a sjeverna strana nudi pogled na Loru i Kaštelanski zaljev. Unutar park-šume nalazi se i **Židovsko groblje** iz 16. stoljeća, crkvica sv. Jerolima uz pustinjačku spilju, te Meštrovićev Kaštelet – umjetnički prostor s djelima Ivana Meštrovića. U zapadnom dijelu smješten je i **Institut za oceanografiju i ribarstvo**, osnovan 1930. godine. Marjan ima i važnu ekološku ulogu. Ovdje obitava više vrsta ptica, sisavaca i biljaka, a prostor je ključan za mikroklimu grada. Iako je u prošlosti bio izložen urbanizacijskom pritisku, danas je Marjan pod upravom Javne ustanove za upravljanje park-šumom, koja provodi zaštitu, održavanje i edukativne aktivnosti. Marjan se doživljava kao "pluća grada" i sastavni dio identiteta Splita. Pristup je moguć s više točaka, uključujući stepenice s Rive prema Vidilici, cestovni ulaz na Bene, ili preko Prvog i Drugog vrha iz smjera Meja i Spinuta.
#13
Gradski stadion Poljud
Gradski stadion Poljud smješten je na sjevernoj obali Splita, uz uvalu Poljud, po kojoj je i dobio ime. Izgrađen je za potrebe VIII. Mediteranskih igara koje su se u Splitu održale 1979. godine. Projektirao ga je hrvatski arhitekt Boris Magaš, a stadion je odmah po dovršetku prepoznat kao jedno od najinovativnijih arhitektonskih ostvarenja svog vremena. Poljudski stadion ima kapacitet od oko 34.000 sjedećih mjesta. Poseban je po svojoj školjkastoj formi i velikom lučnom krovu izrađenom od prozirnih pleksiglasa, koji pokriva većinu tribina. Krov je tada bio tehnološki napredan i jedan od prvih takve vrste u Europi. Konstrukcija je izvedena bez unutarnjih nosača, čime je osigurana maksimalna preglednost s bilo kojeg mjesta na tribinama. Zahvaljujući obliku i položaju, stadion se skladno uklapa u krajobraz između mora i brda Marjan. Od otvorenja, Poljud je domaći stadion nogometnog kluba Hajduk Split, koji je ondje preselio iz dotadašnjeg Starog placa. HNK Hajduk Split osnovan je 13. veljače 1911. godine u Pragu, kada su skupina splitskih studenata odlučila osnovati nogometni klub po uzoru na tada vodeće europske klubove. Po povratku u Split, klub je ubrzo počeo djelovati i postao važan dio sportskog, društvenog i političkog života grada. Hajduk je tijekom svoje povijesti bio jedan od najtrofejnijih i najpopularnijih klubova u bivšoj Jugoslaviji i Hrvatskoj. Osvojio je brojne nacionalne titule, kupove i superkupove. Posebno se ističe kontinuitet djelovanja – Hajduk je aktivno igrao i u ratnim vremenima, uključujući nastupe u savezničkim zemljama tijekom Drugog svjetskog rata. Klub ima snažnu povezanost s gradom Splitom i njegovim stanovnicima. Njegova navijačka skupina, Torcida, osnovana je 1950. godine i smatra se najstarijom navijačkom skupinom u Europi. Hajdukovi navijači poznati su po snažnoj odanosti i sudjelovanju u životu kluba, a od 2009. godine klub djeluje prema modelu "narodnog kluba", gdje članovi imaju pravo sudjelovanja u njegovu upravljanju. Hajduk svoje domaće utakmice igra na stadionu Poljud, a klub je poznat po velikoj bazi navijača diljem Hrvatske i šire. Osim klupskih utakmica, stadion je bio domaćin brojnim sportskim, glazbenim i kulturnim događanjima, uključujući utakmice hrvatske nogometne reprezentacije, atletska natjecanja, koncerte svjetski poznatih izvođača, Ultra music festivala i raznih svečanih manifestacija. Poljud je prošao više faza obnove, uključujući zamjenu travnjaka, modernizaciju svlačionica, rasvjete i postavljanje sigurnosnog sustava. Unatoč tim zahvatima, zadržao je izvorni izgled i funkcionalnost. Od 2015. godine stadion je upisan u Registar kulturnih dobara Republike Hrvatske kao značajno djelo hrvatske moderne arhitekture 20. stoljeća. Poljud se danas koristi za sportske i javne manifestacije te predstavlja jednu od vizualno najprepoznatljivijih građevina u Splitu. Za navijače Hajduka, posebno za pripadnike Torcide – stadion ima i snažan emocionalni značaj. Zahvaljujući arhitektonskoj vrijednosti, smještaju i funkciji, Poljud je simbol Splita u domaćem i međunarodnom kontekstu.
#14
Vidilica
Vidilica na Marjanu nalazi se iznad zapadnog ruba starog dijela Splita, tik iznad ulice koja vodi prema crkvi sv. Frane na Rivi. To je najpoznatiji gradski vidikovac, s kojega se pruža pogled na povijesnu jezgru Splita, Dioklecijanovu palaču, splitsku luku, Kaštelanski zaljev i planinu Mosor u daljini. U idealnim vremenskim uvjetima vidi se i dio srednjodalmatinskih otoka. Do Vidilice se dolazi stepenicama koje počinju s Rive, pokraj crkve sv. Frane. Stepenice su izgrađene krajem 19. stoljeća, u sklopu urbanističkog povezivanja grada s Marjanom. Sam vidikovac je uređen početkom 20. stoljeća, a 1913. godine na toj je lokaciji izgrađena i kavana – današnji caffe bar Vidilica – koja i danas radi. Vidilica ima važnu ulogu u svakodnevnom životu građana Splita i u turističkoj slici grada. Osim što je popularna točka za fotografiranje i kraći predah, ona je i ulazna točka u Park-šumu Marjan. Odavde vodi nekoliko pješačkih staza prema zapadnom i sjevernom dijelu brda, uključujući one koje vode do Prve vidilice, Instituta Oceanografije, Bena, crkvice sv. Nikole i do vrha Marjana sa starim židovskim grobljem i crkvom sv. Jere. Vidilica predstavlja spoj urbanog prostora i prirode, te je od kraja 19. stoljeća neizostavan dio identiteta Splita. Zahvaljujući lakoj dostupnosti i panoramskom pogledu, jedan je od najposjećenijih punktova u gradu za lokalno stanovništvo, ali i za sve posjetitelje.
#15
Srebrna vrata (istočni izlaz iz palače)
Stojite pred Srebrnim vratima, jednim od četiri ulaza u Dioklecijanovu palaču. Mnogo je posjetitelja koji ih prođu bez da shvate njihovu važnost. Ovo nisu vrata za parade niti za trgovinu. Ona su imala posebnu svrhu. Njima je prolazio Dioklecijan kada nije želio pažnju, kada je htio pobjeći od dvorskih pravila i politike. Vrata nisu dobila ime po materijalu ni po sjaju. Naziv dolazi iz jednostavne orijentacije palače i rimskog običaja označavanja važnih točaka smjerovima. Sjever – zlatno. Zapad – brončano. Istok – srebrno. Ali ono što im daje posebnu vrijednost nije ime, nego upotreba. Kad je Dioklecijan odlučio napustiti vlast, ovo su bila vrata kroz koja je odlazio u svoje šetnje. Gledao bi prema moru, prema prostoru izvan zidova. Tu je tražio mir. Nije više donosio odluke za carstvo. Uzgoj povrća postalo mu je važnije od politike. U sedmom stoljeću, kada je Salona uništena, ovim su vratima u palaču ulazili ljudi koji su tražili spas od ratova. Nisu dolazili s vojskom, dolazili su s obiteljima. Tada su vrata izgubila svoju carsku funkciju i postala dio svakodnevice. Nova uloga bila je jednostavna – ulaz u ono što je s vremenom postalo grad Split. Godine 1420., kada su vlast preuzeli Mlečani, nova uprava nije tražila posebna vrata za ulazak. Kroz Srebrna vrata prošao je mletački upravitelj. Ovim istim prolazom neki su napustili grad jer nisu prihvaćali nove zakone i pravila. Vrata su tako bila znak promjene. Danas kroz njih prolaze turisti, prolaznici, učenici i trgovci. Mjesto koje je nekad služilo caru, a zatim izbjeglicama i upraviteljima, sad je dio gradske svakodnevice.
#16
Iron door
You are near the Iron Gate, the best preserved of all four gates of the imperial residence. Already in Roman times, they were called Porta occidentalis or Porta principalis sinistra, and their role was wider than an ordinary passage: they were used to enter the imperial sulfur baths and, less well known, it was the passage through which punished legionnaires were taken out to be flogged or stoned. The gate stands right on the axis of the via decumanus, that main road that cut through the palace from east to west, ending with the Silver Gate on the opposite side. This very position provided them with the most everyday functions; it is the only door that was constantly open, practically from its construction until today. With the entry into the Middle Ages, the space above the door takes on a new level of interest: a small church was built there, originally dedicated to St. Teodoru, later known as the Church of Our Lady of the Bell Tower. A pre-Romanesque bell tower was also erected, today the oldest preserved bell tower on the Adriatic, which gives the Iron Gate an additional ecclesiastical dimension. After the city expanded beyond the palace walls to the west, the Iron Gate became permanently open and has since been called the "free gate". On the left outside, another famous bell tower was erected, with a city clock divided into 24 hours, a unique attraction. Another unusual fact: the relative height at the location of the corridor above the gate is as much as 15.75 meters, and this is the only place where the preserved stone covering shows the true top of the palace's perimeter wall. This gate was not only a functional passage, but also the lifeblood of the city's daily and business life, without interruption throughout all periods of Split's history. Its original purpose was intended for the Romans, but the space was later taken over by craftsmen, merchants, judges, churchmen - everything you can imagine as the drivers of life in a Mediterranean city. With the arrival of tourists and the new age, traffic through them has never stopped – only the goods, language, and clothing of those who enter through the Iron Gates are constantly changing.
#17
Bazaar
The Split Market, known as the Pazar, is located along the eastern wall of Diocletian's Palace, right next to the Silver Gate (Porta Argentea). This location is historically significant because even in Roman times, a space for trade and exchange of goods developed along the exits from the palace. Over the centuries, as Split grew beyond the palace walls, the Pazar retained its role as the main place for purchasing food and meeting residents. The Pazar developed intensively during the 19th and 20th centuries, when the city was under Austro-Hungarian, then Italian and Yugoslav rule. During this period, its current appearance was formed - a series of stands, passages and permanent places for selling agricultural products, homemade products and seasonal fruits and vegetables. The market is active every day, especially in the morning hours, and brings together local OPGs, small producers and resellers from the hinterland of Split, Zagora, the islands and the Dalmatian coast. In addition to fresh fruit and vegetables, the Market offers local cheese, olive oil, prosciutto, eggs, dried figs, flowers, herbs, and even clothing and footwear in the second part of the market. Unlike large shopping malls, the Market still operates on the principle of direct communication between sellers and buyers. Bargaining, tasting, and personal recommendations are part of everyday life. The Market has been in continuous use for over a thousand years and is considered a living part of Split's history. In addition to supplying the city with fresh food, it is also important for Split's identity as it represents a link between the rural surroundings and urban city life. Tourists enjoy visiting it to experience local everyday life and the authentic atmosphere of the city, and many local restaurants and caterers still source their supplies here.
#18
People's Square
You are in the People's Square, which the people of Split simply call "Pjaca". It was created in the 13th century when life began to move out of Diocletian's Palace. Beneath its stone surface, traces of ancient buildings, early Christian mosaics and a Roman aqueduct have been found, meaning that this area was alive long before it became a medieval core. On the west side of the square is the Old Town Hall, with its distinctive Gothic triforia, once the seat of the city government, but also the place that kept the original Venetian lion - a symbol of Venice, whose influence long defined the political and cultural framework of Split. That lion was later removed, during the changes of the late 18th century, but its history remains one of the untold chapters of the Pjaca. From this same spot in 1424, the city statute was publicly read, officially published and available to the people for the first time - a moment that clearly demonstrated how this space is not just a square, but a stage for political shaping. The clock that dominates the bell tower today was installed in 1450 and is considered the oldest public clock in Croatia. Its unusual dial with 24 numbers instead of the usual 12 reminds us that people in this city have always measured time in their own meter. When the French took over Dalmatia in the early 19th century, the Pjaca received a novelty that was incredible to many – the first nighttime public lighting. The administration at the time introduced a series of practical measures that enriched the city, but the fact remains in the collective memory that the night on the square was illuminated for the first time. At the same time, right next to the Pjaca, the Morpurgo bookstore was opened, one of the oldest in Europe, and was not only a place to buy books, but also the center of the city’s intellectual energy. Journalists, professors, poets and the curious came to it every day, so it is no coincidence that the first electric light bulb in the city allegedly appeared here. In the past, every merchant from the Pjaca had to report the exact prices of his products to the city administration every morning – a system of early market supervision that modern states are proud of today. Here, knightly games, public competitions, punishments, and even debates between nobles were held, which the citizens followed as if they were the news of the day. Everyday life was so closely tied to this space that city news, decisions, and affairs began or ended right here.
#19
Fruit market
Fruit Square, officially the Radić Brothers Square, in the heart of whose historic core you are now, is located, among other things, between the Riva and Diocletian's Palace. Although the market no longer exists today, it has retained its name from the time when women from the surrounding villages sold fruit here. Today, it is a lively city area surrounded by cafes, shops and landmarks, popular with tourists and locals alike. The most famous detail of the square is the bronze statue of Marko Marulić, created in 1925 by Ivan Meštrović. It was erected on the occasion of the Adriatic Exhibition and the opening of the Split–Zagreb railway, and the ceremonial unveiling was attended by the cultural and political elite of the time. Marulić (1450–1524), a native of Split and the author of the first Croatian epic poem, "Judith", was a symbol of national culture and humanism. The statue was placed here because Marulić's home was located in the immediate vicinity, and Fruit Square has always been an important city gathering place. Behind the statue is the Milesi Palace, one of the most important examples of Baroque architecture in Split, built in the 17th century. In addition to its rich facade, it is also known for the fact that Don Frane Bulić, a prominent archaeologist and historian, occasionally stayed there. The palace hosted public gatherings, lectures, and events related to culture and science. The Fruit Square thus connects several key periods of Split's history – from ancient and medieval to Baroque and modern times – and remains one of the most recognizable spaces in the city with a strong cultural and historical significance.
#20
Golden Gate
You are standing in front of the Golden Gate, the most important entrance to Diocletian's Palace. Through it, Emperor Diocletian personally entered his luxurious home, and access was granted only to him and his most important guests. The gate is not golden in color, but in significance – it was reserved exclusively for the most privileged. Today, the gate is about 4.5 meters high, although it originally reached 6.5 meters. Over the centuries, layers of earth have raised the ground, so the gate has lost its height. It impresses with its reliefs, columns and niches. The niches once housed statues of the four tetrarchs: Diocletian, Maximian, Galerius and Constantius Chlorus, as a clear message of power and protection. Each huge stone block from which the gate is built comes from the island of Brač. Each block weighs several hundred kilograms. The palace and this gate were built between 295 and 305 AD, with the help of local and foreign craftsmen. In 614, when the Avars and Slavs besieged Salona, the surviving inhabitants found safety by passing through this entrance and taking refuge in the palace. From an entrance for emperors, it became a door of salvation for ordinary people. In the Middle Ages, the gate was walled up. The entrance to the city was moved further east, so the Golden Gate remained hidden until the 19th century, when it was rediscovered. As you walk past the gate, you are actually passing by apartments and spaces that ordinary Split residents had remodeled over the centuries. The imperial halls became a part of everyday life. One of the more interesting legends tells of the "imperial dream" - Diocletian allegedly dreamed, before his death, of a procession of Christians entering this gate carrying a cross. In that dream, the palace was transformed into a Christian city. This later came true - the mausoleum became the Split Cathedral. Another interesting feature is the Golden Gate, on the outer walls, where there is a statue of Gregory of Nin by Ivan Meštrović. Touching his thumb is a local ritual for good luck, and the gate remains the center of the city's customs and interesting stories.
#21
Peristyle
The Peristyle is the central square of Diocletian's Palace in Split, built around 300 AD by order of the Roman emperor Diocletian. The square was designed as an imperial ceremonial stage surrounded by a double row of Corinthian-style columns. It was here that the emperor would address the people on a loggia (the so-called protyron), while his subjects would kneel and obey the "living son of Jupiter" - Diocletian, who wanted to further emphasize his divine status with a monument the likes of which had never been seen in this region before. The Peristyle was located at the intersection of the main Roman streets of the palace (cardo and decumanus), and from it one can access the most important parts of the palace: the imperial mausoleum (today's Cathedral of St. Domnius), the Temple of Jupiter, and the spacious basements that could be used to logistically manage life in the palace. The most interesting details of the Peristyle are related to the ancient Egyptian sphinxes. Diocletian brought as many as 12 sphinxes from Egypt, and one, carved from black granite during the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III, still stands proudly preserved in the square today. This sphinx, about 3,500 years old, is unusual because it ends in human hands, not lion paws, and holds a bowl for offerings, which is a very rare motif. Moreover, the ancient people of Split nicknamed it “Gorgon” from the legends, and over time it became a mystical symbol of the city. Much later, a wealthy American industrialist tried to buy it, but the people of Split proudly refused the offer. Today, the monument is under protection and a valuable archaeological gem. The peristyle is framed on three sides by 24 granite columns, while construction materials, such as Egyptian granite, marble and Brač stone, were brought from various parts of the Empire, symbolizing the power of Rome. Above the main square were three statues: Diocletian, Jupiter and an unknown figure, while on the sides there were sphinxes, and the portico directly connected the imperial chambers and the public part of the palace. The Protiron on the south side played a key role – it represented the imperial elevation and separated the private from the public part of the palace. The Temple of Jupiter was accessed from the west, and the Mausoleum of Diocletian from the east. As Roman rule weakened over time and Christianity became dominant, the Peristyle lost its original imperial significance and slowly became the center of religious and city life. It was a square where trade, gatherings, social and religious ceremonies took place. It was surrounded by the noble palaces of the Split families Grisogono, Cipci and Skočibušić, which directly leaned against the antique columns and arches. In the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, with decoration in new styles, the Peristyle gradually evolved into the city core. Another interesting fact – in 1929, a monument to Gregory of Nin was erected on the square, which was later removed by the occupying authorities and is now located at the Golden Gate of the palace. Despite all the modifications over almost 1700 years, the Peristil has preserved its original features and remained an authentic stage of life. Today, it is a favorite place to gather, drink coffee and enjoy the unique ancient atmosphere. Thanks to its exceptional acoustics, opera performances and concerts are held here – such as the famous performance of Verdi’s “Aida” as part of the Split Summer Festival.
#22
Cathedral of St. Domnius
You are in front of the Cathedral of St. Duje, which was originally the imperial mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian, and in the 7th century was converted into a cathedral and dedicated to St. Duje, the bishop of Solin and a Christian martyr. It is a unique example of where a pagan tomb became a Christian church, without demolishing the original Roman building. The cathedral retains the shape of an ancient mausoleum – octagonal on the outside and circular on the inside, with a high barrel vault and a cornice of Corinthian columns made of marble. The interior is richly decorated and contains numerous artistic and historical elements. The most important elements of the cathedral include the wooden doors from 1214, which were carved by the master Andrija Buvina. The doors are carved with scenes from the life of Jesus Christ, divided into 28 panels. The cathedral also contains stone choir stalls from the 13th century, Gothic-Renaissance altars, marble reliquaries and a richly decorated main altar with the relics of St. Dujma. Behind the altar are the tombs of some of Split's archbishops, including the tomb of St. Arnirius. The cathedral also houses a sacristy, treasury and baptistery. The treasury houses valuable liturgical inventory, manuscripts, reliquaries, chasubles and goldsmith's works. The baptistery is located in the former Temple of Jupiter, a few meters from the cathedral itself. The bell tower of the Split Cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. Its construction began in the 13th century, but lasted for centuries. The styles of construction changed over time - from Romanesque foundations to Gothic and Renaissance additions. The bell tower is about 57 meters high and is accessible to visitors for climbing. A staircase leads to the top, from which there is a panoramic view of the whole of Split, Diocletian's Palace, the sea and the surrounding islands. The Cathedral of St. Dujma is not only a religious building but also a museum and historical complex that testifies to the continuity of life in Split from Roman times to the present day. Visitors can tour the main church, bell tower, baptistery, treasury and underground spaces, and it is especially worth visiting in May, when the feast of St. Domnius, the patron saint of the city, is celebrated.
#23
Vestibule
The Vestibule of Diocletian's Palace was the entrance to the imperial, or residential, part of the complex, which housed the private chambers of Emperor Diocletian. It was built together with the palace at the turn of the 3rd and 4th centuries, between 298 and 305 AD, at the time when Diocletian was planning his retirement from public life. The Vestibule was conceived as an imposing transition between the public square (the Peristyle) and the imperial private space, with a clear separation and strict access control – only the emperor and the closest circle of court guests were allowed to enter this part of the palace. Architecturally, the Vestibule has a circular floor plan, approximately 13 meters in diameter, with four monumental niches that transform the shape of the space into a square from the inside. The walls reach a height of 17 meters, and the original monumental dome was completely closed and probably richly decorated with mosaics and stucco. Today, the central part of the dome is open due to collapse during later centuries, which gives the space a special light and sound effect. The exceptionally richly decorated interior included a mosaic floor, walls covered with high-quality marble and modeled stucco, and the niches most likely housed statues of Roman deities or symbols of power and cult. The entrance door from the Peristyle was especially decorated with reliefs and monumental - its height was almost four meters, which further emphasized the importance of the entrance. Today, the Vestibule is an attraction of the historic core of Split and one of the most recognizable places in the city. It is known for its exceptional acoustics and is often used for musical performances, mostly by traditional Dalmatian klapa groups. The entire Diocletian's Palace, including the Vestibule, has been protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. The name "vestibule" comes from the Latin language and denotes the entrance area of a house or palace, which accurately describes its original purpose - to be a monumental lobby of the private part of one of the most important imperial palaces of late antiquity.
#24
Dioklecijanovi podrumi
Podrumi Dioklecijanove palače impresivan su primjer rimske inženjerske genijalnosti. Sagrađeni su na prijelazu iz 3. u 4. stoljeće kao masivna nosiva osnova rezidencije rimskog cara Dioklecijana. Tlocrt podruma precizno prati raspored gornjih dvorana, zahvaljujući čemu su podrumski prostori omogućili očuvanje palače kroz stoljeća čak i nakon što su gornji dijelovi urbane jezgre počeli poprimati oblik srednjovjekovnog Splita. Podrumi su služili prvenstveno kao skladišni prostori za hranu, vino, ulje i druge potrepštine potrebne za svakodnevni život palače. Arheološka istraživanja potvrdila su pronalazak antičkih preša za vino i ulje te sustava za odvodnju vode, što jasno svjedoči o logističkoj i organizacijskoj ulozi podruma. Carska su blaga također čuvana upravo na ovom mjestu, što govori o bogatstvu i moći Dioklecijana u njegovo vrijeme. Zanimljivo je istaknuti da su kroz povijest podrumi često bili zapušteni ili pretvoreni u odlagalište otpada, a sistematska arheološka istraživanja započela su tek u 20. stoljeću. Pronađeni su brojni vrijedni nalazi poput rimskih kovanica, skulptura i antičkih instalacija. U jednom periodu novije prošlosti, lokalni su stanovnici podrume čak koristili kao vinske podrume. Posebnu popularnost podrumi su stekli početkom 21. stoljeća kada su korišteni kao impresivna kulisa u popularnoj seriji Game of Thrones. Upravo su u ovim prostorima snimane scene iz robovlasničkog grada Meereena, čime je Dioklecijanova palača dodatno postala globalno prepoznatljiv simbol povijesti i popularne kulture. Šetnja ovim hodnicima znači doslovno zakoračiti u svijet antičkog Rima, ali i u fantastičan svijet Westerosa.
#25
Temple of Jupiter
The Temple of Jupiter was built between 295 and 305 AD, as part of Diocletian's Palace. Located in its western part, not far from the Peristyle, it was erected as a sanctuary dedicated to the Roman god Jupiter, the highest deity of the Roman pantheon. Emperor Diocletian, who considered himself a divine descendant of Jupiter, had the temple built not only as a place of religious ritual, but also as a confirmation of his political and spiritual power. The temple was built on a raised podium, with a rectangular floor plan and a portico in front of the entrance adorned with six columns. The entrance portal is richly decorated with reliefs, including figures of gorgons - mythical creatures believed to protect against evil. Special attention is also drawn to the Egyptian sphinx placed in front of the entrance, one of the twelve that Diocletian brought from Egypt. The interior of the temple is dominated by a barrel vault, richly decorated with coffers, which is exceptionally well preserved. This architectural element later had a significant influence on the development of Renaissance architecture on the Dalmatian coast, especially in Trogir. During the 6th century, during the spread of Christianity, the temple was converted into a baptistery, which did not destroy the original architecture, but rather carefully adapted it to new symbols and functions. In the crypt below the baptistery, a space dedicated to Saint Thomas was arranged, while above, in the baptistery itself, in the 13th century, a baptismal font was installed made of stone elements from the 11th century, originally from the Split Cathedral. One of the more interesting historical features of this space is located on one segment of the marble slab of the well – a relief depiction of the Croatian king, probably Petar Krešimir IV. or Zvonimir, which is also the oldest known depiction of a European ruler in stone. Next to the well, inside the space are two sarcophagi with the mortal remains of Archbishops Ivan II. and Lawrence, which further confirms the role of this baptistery as an important spiritual point of the Split church community. Today, the space is dominated by a bronze statue of Saint John the Baptist, a work by Ivan Meštrović from the 20th century, which in modern times rounds off the church function of the building. Above, on the coffered vault, there used to be an early Romanesque bell tower in the Middle Ages, but it was removed in the 19th century during the restoration of the building in order to return the temple to its original antique appearance. It is precisely this long-term use of the space, which has never lost its sacred function, that makes the Temple of Jupiter a unique example of architectural and cultural adaptation. As part of Diocletian's Palace, the Temple of Jupiter has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979. It is here that different historical layers meet: the Roman imperial cult, early Christian symbolism and contemporary Croatian art.
#26
Matejuška
In front of you is Matejuška – a place that the people of Split do not avoid, and every traveler can see how the city breathes here. This small bay, located between the western walls of Diocletian's Palace and at the foot of Marjan, has been the center of fishing life for centuries. According to some sources, the name Matejuška comes from the church of St. Matthew, but there is also an interesting theory that the name actually came from the brothers Mate and Joško, whom their mother called out to brunch every day from the window, and so the place was named after these calls. Matejuška once served as a fishing port, while the main ancient dock was next to the palace itself. Fishing boats are still moored here today. Nearby is a large monument to fishermen – a huge fishhook, which reminds us of how important this part of the city is to the people of Split. Colorful boats, often decorated with red and blue stripes, are not just for decoration. Fishermen painted them to make them easier to recognize in the fog and at sea. Over time, stories about the meaning of these colors emerged – red symbolizes the blood of Saint Duje, the patron saint of Split, and blue the sea that nourishes the city. Throughout history, Matejuška has been the scene of everyday dramas and major events. In 1979, after Hajduk won the championship title, fans celebrated by jumping into the sea from these very walls. A lesser-known, but very interesting fact is that at the beginning of the 20th century, healing sulfur springs gushed out on Matejuška, which is why Diocletian decided to build his palace on this very spot. The city's first hydroport with a line to Prague was also located here, which further increased the importance of this bay in the history of Split. Today, Matejuška is a lively place, where tradition is still cherished. Fishermen, sea lovers and all those who care about the spirit of the city still gather here. In the evening, with the smell of the sea and the sound of seagulls, Matejuška becomes a gathering point, meeting places, stories and new memories.
#27
Prokurative (Republic Square)
You are on Prokurative, a square that the people of Split also call Trg Republike. This is a place that attracts the attention of everyone who passes through the center of Split. The square was created in the second half of the 19th century, and the main driver was the then mayor Antonio Bajamonti. His idea was to make Split a "city of the future", so he took inspiration from the Venetian St. Mark's Square. That is why the buildings around the square were built in the Neo-Renaissance style, with recognizable arcades that give the square a special look. On the south side of Prokurative, the square is open to the port and the Riva, which makes it one of the few squares with such a beautiful view of the sea. It is interesting that the construction of the square lasted decades: first the western wing was built, then the eastern, and each part was built in different periods, which can be seen in the details on the facades. For example, on one side you can see richly decorated reliefs, while the other side remained simpler because the architect from Venice abandoned the project before completion due to homesickness. Among the many stories that accompany this square, the one about Split's "Phantom of the Opera" - a man in a black coat who appeared on the square at exactly midnight - stands out. According to legend, he was in love with a singer from a nearby theater, but she rejected him. Although there is no evidence that this story is true, it is still told among the people of Split. Today, Prokurative is a lively meeting place. Under the arcades of cafes, "peak hours" are held daily, when a large number of people change in a short time and all important matters are agreed over coffee. In the summer, the square becomes a stage for numerous concerts and festivals, the most famous of which is the Split Pop Music Festival, which has been held here for almost fifty years. One less known, but interesting fact: a large theater building, Teatro Bajamonti, once stood on Prokurative, which opened in 1859 and was the center of Split's cultural life. However, its glory did not last long: in 1882, the theater was destroyed by fire, and its life at that location brought other stories – a cinema, various institutions, and soon a new theater for new generations. Today, the building is called the Split Youth Theater, where children and young people gather once again to discover the world of theater and art.
#28
Dioklecijanova palača
Nalazite se usred mjesta koje prkosi vremenu – Dioklecijanove palače. Ovdje, unutar zidina starijih od većine europskih država, život ne prestaje ni na trenutak. Ovo nije kulisa za turiste, nego pravi mali grad u kojem oko 3000 ljudi svakodnevno živi, radi i prolazi kroz svakodnevicu – samo što su im zidovi stari 1700 godina. Godine 305., Dioklecijan, jedini rimski car koji je dobrovoljno napustio prijestolje, odlučio je ovdje sagraditi nešto što je istovremeno luksuzna vila i tvrđava. Nije želio samo uživati u mirovini, već i zadržati kontrolu nad Mediteranom. Palača je preživjela sve – ratove, osvajače, potrese. Kad su Avari i Slaveni razorili Salonu, preživjeli su se jednostavno uselili u palaču. Nisu čekali obnovu – Dioklecijanove privatne sobe pretvorili su u svoje dnevne boravke, a carske kupelji u crkve. Peristil, nekadašnji carski trg, postao je gradski dnevni boravak. Ako sada podignete pogled, možda ćete vidjeti balkon s kojeg je car gledao svoje vojnike. A kad dotaknete hladni kamen, znajte da je na istom mjestu Dioklecijan možda razmišljao o sudbini carstva. Pod vama se nalazi podrum – nekada skladište i pivnica, danas pravi labirint u kojem se lako izgubiti (i pronaći najbolju fotografiju za društvene mreže). No tko je zapravo bio Dioklecijan? Rođen je kao Diokles, u skromnoj ilirskoj obitelji nedaleko od Salone. Svojim vojnim talentom i političkom lukavošću popeo se do samog vrha Rimskog Carstva. Poznat je po tome što je reformirao carstvo, podijelio ga na četiri dijela i uveo tetrarhiju kako bi spriječio kaos. Iako je bio poznat po strogosti, u privatnom životu bio je vezan uz suprugu Priscu, koja mu je bila oslonac kroz sve izazove. Zanimljivo, Priska je bila kršćanka, dok je Dioklecijan bio poznat po progonima kršćana – što je sigurno unosilo napetost u njihov dom. Ironija sudbine je što Dioklecijan nije dugo uživao u svom remek-djelu. Umro je nakon samo sedam godina mirovine, a legenda kaže da je na kraju života poželio da barem palača ostane vječna. I bio je u pravu – dok su drugi rimski dvorci nestali, njegova palača je postala živo srce Splita. A sad jedna priča koju možda niste čuli: Dioklecijanov luksuzni zahod bio je toliko impresivan da su ga kasniji stanovnici smatrali carevim prijestoljem i ondje održavali svečane ceremonije! Tek su stoljećima kasnije shvatili pravu svrhu toga „trona“. Još jedna zanimljivost: u podrumima palače snimane su i scene iz serije „Igra prijestolja“. Dakle, dok hodate ovim hodnicima, možda ste na istom mjestu gdje je Daenerys držala svoje zmajeve!
#29
Waterfront
The Riva in Split is not just a promenade, but an area with a rich history and a key role throughout the centuries. As early as the 11th century, the port in front of today's Riva was an important center of maritime trade, connecting Split with the interior of the Balkans and the entire Mediterranean. In the 14th century, it was named the port of St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors, and even then the coast was protected by walls and fortifications from flooding and enemies. During Venetian rule (1420–1797), Split expanded beyond the boundaries of Diocletian's Palace, and the coastal walls and towers further emphasized the importance of the Riva as the center of the city and port. At the beginning of the 19th century, during the French administration, Marshal Marmont ordered the demolition of part of the old fortifications in order to open the city to the sea. The material from the demolished walls was used to fill in and form the current coast, which gave the Riva its recognizable appearance. The first palm trees were planted between 1920 and 1922, bringing a true Mediterranean atmosphere and additional appeal to the Riva. Today, a walk among the palm trees is the trademark of Split's Riva. Throughout history, the Riva has been the center of important events and celebrations. Hajduk's greatest victories were celebrated here, when the entire city would come out to the Riva, sing fan songs and celebrate until late into the night. A special moment that will forever remain etched in our memory is the welcome of Goran Ivanišević after winning Wimbledon in 2001, when more than 100,000 people came to greet the Split tennis hero, and ships and boats created a bridge from the West Bank to the Port Authority. The largest Split festival, Sudamja, gathers thousands of people on the Riva every year. The program includes cultural, sports and entertainment events, and the highlight is the procession and open-air concerts. Sudamja is more than just a celebration - it is a moment when Split shows its unity and tradition. The Riva was the place where the first Split cafes and pastry shops were opened as early as 1786, confirming its long-standing role as the heart of social life. The Riva is also home to important historical buildings: the southern facade of Diocletian's Palace with the entrance to the Cellars, the Franciscan Monastery with the Church of St. Francis, the Bajamonti Dešković Palace and the Port Authority. Even today, the Riva is a favorite place for walking and socializing, and its history and architecture make it one of the most important symbols of Split.
#30
Marmont Street
Marmontova Street in Split is the main pedestrian zone connecting the Riva with the Prokurative. It is named after the French Marshal Marmont, who had a significant influence on the development of the city in the early 19th century. Marmont initiated the modernization of Split: he opened the Beautification Office, built schools, theaters, roads and parks, and introduced new ideas from the French Revolution. The people of Split remember him as the person who brought progress to the city. Marmontova is the first planned straight street outside Diocletian's Palace, cut through the old city walls, which marked a new direction for the city's development to the north. Today, the street is completely pedestrianized, renovated in 1996, and full of shops, cafes and restaurants. The fish market is located approximately in the middle of Marmontova and is famous for the fact that flies do not enter it, thanks to the smell of sulfur from the nearby spa. Marmontova Street is also home to Split's first cinema, Karaman, which is still in operation today, and the Morpurgo bookstore, one of the oldest in Europe. The Pirja fountain, installed in 1998, attracts special attention. The author is academic sculptor Kažimir Hraste. The sculpture depicts a bronze fist showing a thumb - the thumb is placed between the index and middle fingers. A stream of water comes out of the fist and falls straight into a large funnel, or pirja, placed on the sidewalk. This gesture, known as a "figa", symbolizes stubbornness and resilience. The fountain has become a recognizable symbol of Marmontova Street, and often arouses the curiosity of passers-by, especially when it is in operation, as this is not a common sight.
#31
Fish market
You are at Split's "peškarija", a place where not only fish has been sold for over a hundred years, but also a part of Split's identity. This building, built in 1890 according to a project by Ante Bezić, was built on the site of old wooden plank houses where fish had been sold since Roman times. The Austro-Hungarians built an elegant iron structure here, inspired by large European markets, with the aim of modernizing Split's trade, but in fact they created a cult place that became the heart of Split's gastronomic tradition. The interior of the Fish Market has retained its original stone paving and fish counters, and the gabled roof with basilica-style lighting and ventilation ensured freshness even during the hottest summers, which was revolutionary for its time. The main entrance features the coat of arms of the city of Split, and the western door opens onto the square and Marmontova Street, making the fish market part of the everyday urban rhythm. Interestingly, there are almost no flies in Ribarnica – this is thanks to the smell of sulfur springs from the nearby spa, which repelled insects and attracted Diocletian to build his palace here in Roman times. All the freshness of the Adriatic comes to the tables of Ribarnica every day, and the rules for selling fish have remained the same since Roman times: the freshest fish arrives from Matejuška as early as five in the morning, and by noon everything is sold out. There are no refrigerators or preservatives – just ice, salt and Split wisdom. Split's Ribarnica has long been too small for today's Split, but it is so important to the city's spirit that no one wants to touch or move it. Today, Ribarnica is threatened by modern shopping malls, but the people of Split stubbornly hold on to their traditions.