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Monument to Gregory of Nin: A Symbol of Croatian Pride

A towering monument in Split honoring Gregory of Nin, a champion of Croatian language and culture. Rub the toe for good luck!

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The Monument to Gregory of Nin, created by Ivan Meštrović, stands just outside Diocletian's Palace in Split, Croatia. This imposing statue honors the medieval bishop who championed the Croatian language in religious services, becoming a symbol of national identity and resistance. Rubbing the statue's toe is said to bring good luck.

A brief summary to Monument to Gregory of Nin

  • Ul. kralja Tomislava 12, Splitska, 21000, HR

Local tips

  • Rub Gregory's big toe for good luck – it's a popular tradition!
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and get the best light for photos.
  • Explore nearby Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, all within walking distance.
  • Consider joining a guided walking tour of Split to learn more about the history and significance of the monument.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Monument to Gregory of Nin is located just outside the Golden Gate of Diocletian's Palace, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations in Split. From the Riva promenade, walk north towards the Golden Gate. The statue will be visible on your left, near Đardin park. There are no costs associated with walking to the monument.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by public transport, take a bus to one of the stops near the city center. From the bus stop, walk towards Diocletian's Palace and the Golden Gate. The monument is located just outside the gate. A single bus ticket within Split costs approximately €2.50. Tickets can be purchased at a kiosk or on the bus.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Split. A short taxi ride from the Split Ferry Port or the main bus station to the Golden Gate area, where the monument is located, will cost approximately 60 HRK. Ensure the driver uses the meter, with a base fare of 20 HRK and 8 HRK per kilometer.

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Discover more about Monument to Gregory of Nin

The Monument to Gregory of Nin is a striking bronze statue located just north of Diocletian's Palace, near the Golden Gate, in Split, Croatia. Crafted by the renowned Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović, the nearly 8-meter-tall monument pays tribute to Gregory of Nin, a 10th-century bishop who advocated for the use of the Croatian language in religious services. Gregory of Nin was a significant figure in Croatian history, known for his opposition to the Pope and his efforts to introduce the Croatian language into religious practices. Until that time, services were conducted exclusively in Latin, which was not understood by the majority of the population. Gregory's advocacy was crucial for both Croatian language and culture, strengthening Christianity within the Croatian kingdom. Today, he is remembered as a symbol of resistance against oppression and a defender of Croatian cultural identity. The statue itself is a masterpiece, depicting Gregory holding a book in one hand and raising the other in a gesture of blessing. Meštrović's attention to detail and the statue's commanding presence make it a captivating landmark. Over the years, a local tradition has emerged: rubbing the statue's big toe is believed to bring good luck, resulting in a noticeably polished and shiny toe. Originally erected in the Peristyle of Diocletian's Palace in 1929, the statue was later moved outside the city by Italian occupying forces during World War II. In 1954, it was re-erected in its current location, just outside the Golden Gate. The monument serves as a reminder of Croatia's rich past and its struggles for linguistic and religious independence.

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