Exploring the Enchanting Old Town of Split

• HelloBok
  [bohk]
• GoodbyeDoviđenja
  [doh-vee-jen-ya]
• YesDa
  [dah]
• NoNe
  [neh]
• Please/You're welcomeMolim
  [moh-leem]
• Thank youHvala
  [h-vah-lah]
• Excuse me/SorryOprosti
  [oh-pros-tee]
• How are you?Kako si?
  [kah-koh see]
• Fine. And you?Dobro. A ti?
  [doh-broh ah tee]
• Do you speak English?Govoriš li engleski?
  [goh-voh-reesh lee ehn-glehs-kee]
• I don't understandNe razumijem
  [neh rah-zoo-mee-yem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMogu li vidjeti meni, molim?
  [moh-goo lee vee-dyeh-tee meh-nee moh-leem]
• I don't eat meatNe jedem meso
  [neh yeh-dem meh-soh]
• Cheers!Živjeli!
  [zhee-vyeh-lee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseŽelim platiti, molim
  [zheh-leem plah-tee-tee moh-leem]

• Help!Pomoć!
  [poh-mohch]
• Go away!Otiđi!
  [oh-tee-jee]
• Call the Police!Pozovi policiju!
  [poh-zoh-vee poh-lee-tsee-yoo]
• Call a doctor!Pozovi doktora!
  [poh-zoh-vee dohk-toh-rah]
• I'm lostIzgubio sam se
  [eez-goo-byoh sahm seh]
• I'm illBolestan sam
  [boh-leh-stahn sahm]

• I'd like to buy...Želim kupiti...
  [zheh-leem koo-pee-tee]
• I'm just lookingSamo gledam
  [sah-moh gleh-dahm]
• How much is it?Koliko košta?
  [koh-lee-koh koh-shta]
• That's too expensiveTo je previše skupo
  [toh yeh preh-vee-sheh skoo-poh]
• Can you lower the price?Možete li spustiti cijenu?
  [moh-zheh-teh lee spoos-tee-tee tsee-yeh-noo]

• What time is it?Koliko je sati?
  [koh-lee-koh yeh sah-tee]
• It's one o'clockJedan je sat
  [yeh-dahn yeh saht]
• Half past (10)Pola (deset)
  [poh-lah deh-seht]
• MorningJutro
  [yoo-troh]
• AfternoonPopodne
  [poh-pohd-neh]
• EveningVečer
  [veh-chehr]
• YesterdayJučer
  [yoo-chehr]
• TodayDanas
  [dah-nahs]
• TomorrowSutra
  [soo-trah]
• 1Jedan
  [yeh-dahn]
• 2Dva
  [dvah]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Četiri
  [cheh-tee-ree]
• 5Pet
  [peht]
• 6Šest
  [shehst]
• 7Sedam
  [seh-dahm]
• 8Osam
  [oh-sahm]
• 9Devet
  [deh-veht]
• 10Deset
  [deh-seht]

• Where's a/the...?Gdje je...?
  [gdyeh yeh]
• What's the address?Koja je adresa?
  [koh-yah yeh ah-deh-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Možete li mi pokazati (na karti)?
  [moh-zheh-teh lee mee poh-kah-zah-tee nah kahr-tee]
• When's the next (bus)?Kada je sljedeći (autobus)?
  [kah-dah yeh sleh-deh-chee ow-toh-boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Jednu kartu (do ....)
  [yehd-noo kahr-too doh]

The Old Town of Split is primarily built around the remarkable Diocletian's Palace, constructed in the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built as a retirement residence for the Roman Emperor Diocletian, who ruled from 284 to 305 AD. The palace was a massive structure that combined the functions of a military fortress and a luxurious villa, showcasing the grandeur of Roman architecture and urban planning.

After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the palace was repurposed by the local population as they sought refuge from invasions. By the 7th century, the palace complex had transformed into a fortified town, with residents utilizing the existing walls for protection. This transition marked the beginning of Split's evolution from a Roman stronghold into a thriving medieval settlement, with churches and homes being built within the palace's walls.

The medieval period saw the rise of the Christian church in Split, with the construction of significant religious structures such as the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, originally built as a mausoleum for Diocletian. By the 7th century, the cathedral became a pivotal place of worship, reflecting the growing influence of Christianity in the region. The adjacent bell tower is a prominent feature of the Old Town, showcasing a mix of architectural styles that evolved over centuries.

During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, Split's Old Town experienced cultural and architectural development. Wealthy merchants and nobility commissioned palaces and public buildings, leading to the construction of notable structures such as the People's Square (Narodni Trg) and the Riva promenade. This era reflected a fusion of local and Italian influences, enriching the cultural tapestry of Split and enhancing its status as a regional center.

In the 19th century, Split became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which brought modernization and urban development to the Old Town. Infrastructure improvements, including the establishment of a railway and new public spaces, contributed to the city's growth. This period also saw the promotion of Split as a tourist destination, with its rich history and picturesque scenery attracting visitors from across Europe.

The 20th century brought challenges, including World War II and the subsequent socialist regime in Yugoslavia. Despite these challenges, efforts to preserve Split's historical heritage were initiated, leading to restoration projects that aimed to maintain the integrity of the Old Town. Today, Split's Old Town stands as a vibrant living museum, with its streets echoing the rich history and culture that have shaped the city over millennia.

Old Town Split is centrally located and easily accessible from various neighborhoods. If you're arriving at Split's main train station or bus terminal, it's just a 15-minute walk to Old Town. Taxis and rideshare services are also available, typically costing around 10-15 kuna. For those coming from the Split Airport, shuttle buses operate regularly, taking about 30 minutes to reach the city center. Alternatively, taxis from the airport to Old Town usually cost between 250-350 kuna.

Old Town is best explored on foot due to its narrow, cobbled streets and pedestrian-only zones. Public transport options like buses and trams are limited in this area. However, nearby neighborhoods can be reached by local buses, which connect to the wider Split area. Bicycles can be rented, but be mindful of where you park them, as bike theft can occur. Always check for designated bike lanes when cycling.

Old Town Split is generally safe for tourists. However, it's wise to remain vigilant in crowded areas, especially around popular attractions like Diocletian's Palace. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in busy tourist spots and during peak season. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and exercise caution when using ATMs. While there are no specific high-crime areas, it's advisable to stay alert and keep belongings secure.

In case of emergencies, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance in Croatia. The local hospital is located near the city center, and there are various pharmacies available for minor health issues. Always carry a copy of your identification and any necessary medical information. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting churches. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; remove your hat when entering places of worship. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to the elderly or disabled. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Dobar dan' (Good day). Don't use overly casual greetings unless you're familiar. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes, especially seafood, and enjoy traditional drinks. Don't waste food; it’s seen as disrespectful.

To experience Old Town like a local, visit the green market (Pazar) for fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with local vendors and try traditional snacks. Early mornings are the best time to visit for a more authentic experience. Don't forget to partake in the local café culture; sitting in a café for hours is a cherished pastime. Finally, explore the small alleys and less-traveled paths to discover hidden gems away from the tourist crowds.