Croatian Travel: Trogir
The Many Faces of Trogir...
Just west of Split in the central Dalmatian coastal area of Croatia is the small, well-preserved, medieval town of Trogir. This ancient Greek settlement that dates back to the 3rd century BC grew into a bustling port city during the Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages, sculpture, art, and architecture flourished and the area became known for its vibrant and dynamic culture.
In the early 15th century, the Venetians tried to take over, but the culturally enlightened residents of the town fought assimilation, but were eventually conquered. Though the rest of the Dalmatian coast became strangled under Venetian rule, Trogir continued to produce beautiful works of art throughout its four hundred year rule.
Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wonderful example of how art and architecture has changed throughout the centuries under various rulers. There is a strong mixture of Roman and Renaissance era ruins and architecture through the small town. You’ll see beautiful 15th century walls, cobblestone medieval streets, beautiful palaces, and magnificent cathedrals.
The most important architectural building of Trogir is the Cathedral of St. Lawrence. This 13th century church is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture at its finest. There is an impressive collection of Roman, Gothic, and Renaissance era sculptures and art pieces displayed throughout the cathedral.
After you’ve seen the cultural sites of Trogir, you might want to take in a little sun and surf. While there are beaches in Trogir, you might want to take a short boat ride to one of the other neighboring islands, such as Drvenik Mali or Drvenik Veli. These small getaway islands have few tourists and even fewer residents, so it’s ideal for a short, romantic getaway. The islands are covered in olive trees, sandy beaches, and warm sun, making it the perfect location for an afternoon nap.
