Split Cathedral – a mixture of history, art and religion
Split Cathedral, full of history and majestic architecture, is not only the main temple of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Split-Makarska, but also a place that combines the ancient heritage of Emperor Diocletian with the Christian tradition. Also known as Saint Domnion’s Cathedral, it is an integral part of Diocletian’s Palace in Split, Croatia.
The history of the cathedral dates back to the times of Emperor Diocletian, who built this place as his mausoleum in the 3rd century AD. In the 8th century, during the period of Christianization, the building was rebuilt into a cathedral. Despite the transformations, the cathedral has retained the original architecture of the octagonal building, which gives it a unique character.
In the 13th century, the cathedral received monumental wooden doorposts, carved by the artist Buvin, and a stone pulpit. The cathedral’s dome, once decorated with a beautiful mosaic, still amazes with its majesty. The main altar dates back to the 17th century, and the Romanesque choir stalls from the 13th century are the oldest in Dalmatia.
Under the cathedral there is a crypt, originally intended for the mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian, and later converted into the chapel of St. Lucy. This place exudes a mysterious atmosphere and a wealth of history. The cathedral treasury houses collections of silver and gold liturgical vessels, and the archive contains priceless materials, including a gospel from the 8th century.
The cathedral’s Romanesque tower, built in the 13th-16th centuries and rebuilt in the 19th-20th centuries, dominates the city’s skyline. At its foot you can admire two Romanesque lions and an Egyptian sphinx made of black granite, dating back to the 15th century BC.
Split Cathedral is not only an important place of religious worship, but also attracts lovers of history, art and architecture. Its unique aura makes it not only a spiritual sanctuary, but also an open museum that allows you to travel in time and discover the fascinating combination of ancient and Christian heritage.
