Saint Domnius Cathedral: A Roman Mausoleum Turned Sacred Landmark

Located in the heart of Split within Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius is a captivating historical site. Originally constructed as the mausoleum of Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century, it was transformed into a cathedral in the 7th century. This makes it one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals in the world still in use.The cathedral is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, with its bell tower dedicated to Saint Domnius, the patron saint of Split who was martyred by Diocletian. The 57-meter-high bell tower, built around 1100 AD in the Romanesque style, provides stunning panoramic views of Split and the Adriatic Sea. The climb to the top involves navigating 183 steps.Inside, the cathedral showcases a blend of architectural styles. The wooden doors, crafted in 1214 by Andrija Buvina, feature 28 carved panels depicting scenes from the life of Christ. The interior also houses the altar of St. Anastasius, created by Juraj Dalmatinac in the 15th century, and a treasury filled with valuable religious artifacts.Visitors can explore the crypt of St. Lucy, located beneath the cathedral, and admire the Romanesque pulpit dating back to the 13th century. The cathedral continues to be a place of worship, holding masses and religious festivals.