Our port of call today was the historic town of Split, the second largest town in Croatia and a center of Dalmatia region. The walking tour took us through Split's bustling port and highlighted Emperor Diocletian’s palace, which was built as his retirement home more than 1,700 years ago.
Over the centuries, the palace became the basis of today’s town. Through the sea gate, we entered the substructure of the cellars, today an exhibition of past and present of the town. St. Domnius Cathedral, formerly the mausoleum of the emperor himself, featured magnificent artwork and a touch of irony, as Bishop Domnius was martyred under Diocletian’s rule. During free time, some circled the narrow streets of the palace and approximate surroundings, while others found a nice cold drink, or a gelato treat.
An afternoon excursion to UNESCO heritage site, Trogir, offered a slightly different experience. Nicknamed a “town of maisters”, this rectangular islet holds an impressive number of palaces with a highlight in the town’s cathedral, dedicated to Saint Lawrence. Maister Radovan’s portal is the best-preserved 13th century Romanesque church entrance in Europe. We enjoyed exploring through the narrow streets before a scenic return drive to Split.
