The coast of Croatia holds various treasures in the form of pristine beaches, picturesque scenery, and rustic seaside towns. One such coastal town that is known for its surreal natural beauty and breathtaking monuments is Split, one of the most popular Croatian destinations. This enchanting city is a fusion of intriguing historical artifacts and elements of an urban lifestyle, and therefore displays the Croatian principle of moving with the times while preserving ancient traditions. Here are some of the wonderful activities that reveal the various facets of this charming town to the travelers and allow them to fully comprehend the cultural diversity of this region.
Explore Diocletian’s Palace
The Diocletian’s Palace is the most striking landmark of Split that stands next to the harbor. This magnificent monument was once the residence of the royals as well as a fortified town. In the present day, the sprawling interiors contain residential complexes as well as restaurants and shops. The opulent architecture and the shiny limestone and marble of the palace provide a unique backdrop to the modern cafes and houses that occupy the massive compound. This is the perfect location for admiring the craftsmanship of the ancestors as well as for soaking in the local culture.
Visit The Cathedral Of St. Domnius
Yet another fascinating monument of Split is the Cathedral of St. Domnius that is built around the mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian. The mausoleum dates back to the 3rd century and a chorus was added to it in the 17th century. However, the most spectacular part of the cathedral is a bell tower dedicated to St. Domnius that looms over the landscape. The wooden doors of the cathedral are considered to be some of the finest examples of Romanesque sculpture while the treasury contains some wonderful artworks and artifacts from the bygone era. In this manner, this glorious cathedral displays some marvelous gems from the lanes of history.
Visit The Museums Of Split
Split is a city where you can find various museums and galleries that narrate the tales of the Croatia of the yesteryears. The Split City Museum that is located inside the Papalic Palace exhibits medieval weaponry and relics while the Archaeological Museum houses mosaics, pottery, and coins dating back to the Greek and Roman eras. The Croatian Maritime Museum pays homage to the seafaring tradition of Split, in the form of model boats and images of ancient vessels, whereas the Ethnographic Museum displays traditional costumes, jewelry, and handicrafts. Each museum sheds light on a different aspect of the local culture and presents some interesting facts about the town’s history.
Climb The Marjan Hill
The Marjan Hill is a serene retreat on the outskirts of Split that is known for its lush green gardens and peaceful atmosphere, reachable either by foot or Split taxi services. One can enjoy a picnic in the park on the hill or can walk or cycle to the peak for a breathtaking view of the sea and the town. Exploring the caves that dot the slopes is an interesting activity in itself because some of them hold hidden churches that have been carved into the rocks. This alluring natural paradise offers some respite from the hustle and bustle of the city and is ideal for relaxing and unwinding.
Enjoy The Beaches
The beaches of Split vary from golden stretches of sand to pebbled shores and offer a variety of activities to cater to different tastes. The beaches at the foot of the Marjan Hill are more secluded and are perfect for some quiet time by the sea whereas the Bacvice Beach is known for its nightlife and cafes. The Znjan Beach is suitable for families with children while the Duilovo Beach is pet-friendly. On the other hand, the Jezinac Beach lies between dense pine forests and turquoise blue waters that make it an idyllic spot. With so many options to choose from, every traveler will find a beach that they love.
These delightful activities will provide you an opportunity to witness the different colors and flavors of Split’s culture at close quarters. They are the best ways to explore the natural magnificence and rich traditional heritage of the region. So make sure to try out these exhilarating activities in Split on your next Croatian adventure.