Varoš: The Charming Historical Heart of Split

• HelloBok
  [bohk]
• GoodbyeDoviđenja
  [doh-vee-jen-ya]
• YesDa
  [dah]
• NoNe
  [neh]
• Please/You're welcomeMolim
  [moh-leem]
• Thank youHvala
  [hvah-lah]
• Excuse me/SorryOprostite
  [oh-proh-stee-teh]
• 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-gleh-skee]
• I don't understandNe razumijem
  [neh rah-zoo-mee-yem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMolio bih jelovnik, molim
  [moh-lee-oh bee yeh-lohv-neek, moh-leem]
• I don't eat meatNe jedem meso
  [neh yeh-dem meh-soh]
• Cheers!Živjeli!
  [zhee-vee-yeh-lee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseŽelim platiti, molim
  [zheh-leem plah-tee-tee, moh-leem]

• Help!Pomoć!
  [poh-mohtch]
• Go away!Idi odavde!
  [ee-dee oh-dahv-deh]
• Call the Police!Pozovite policiju!
  [poh-zoh-vee-teh poh-lee-tsee-yoo]
• Call a doctor!Pozovite doktora!
  [poh-zoh-vee-teh 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 pre skupo
  [toh yeh preh skoo-poh]
• Can you lower the price?Možete li spustiti cijenu?
  [moh-zheh-teh lee spoo-stee-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)Polovina (10)
  [poh-loh-vee-nah (10)]
• 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...?
  [gyeh 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 (za ....)
  [yehd-noo kahr-too zah]

Varoš is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Split, with its roots tracing back to the 4th century when the Roman Emperor Diocletian built his palace. Originally a settlement for the palace's functionaries and their families, Varoš grew around the palace's walls, embodying the fusion of Roman and early medieval cultures. The architectural styles and urban layout reflect this historical blend, making it a living testament to Split's ancient past.

During the Middle Ages, Varoš became a vibrant community. As Split flourished, Varoš transformed into a bustling neighborhood, with narrow streets and stone houses. This era saw the establishment of churches and small chapels, contributing to the area's cultural and spiritual life. The Church of St. Nicholas, built in the 11th century, is a notable landmark that showcases the Romanesque architectural style prevalent during this time.

The 16th and 17th centuries brought about significant changes in Varoš due to the threat of Ottoman expansion. While Split itself remained under Venetian rule, Varoš experienced a mix of cultures, with influences from the Ottoman Empire permeating local customs, cuisine, and architecture. The resilience of the local population during this period is evident in the preservation of their traditions and the continued development of their community.

The 19th century marked a period of cultural awakening for Varoš. It became a center for local artisans and craftsmen, with numerous workshops and galleries emerging. The neighborhood was instrumental in the Croatian national revival, fostering a sense of identity and pride among its residents. Festivals and public gatherings became commonplace, highlighting Varoš's role as a vital cultural hub within Split.

In the 20th century, Varoš underwent significant changes due to urbanization and modernization. However, efforts have been made to preserve its historical character, with restoration projects aimed at maintaining the architectural integrity of its streets and buildings. Today, Varoš is celebrated for its charming atmosphere and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking to experience the rich cultural history of Split.

Varos is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Split. If you are coming from the historic center, it is just a 10-15 minute walk. Buses also run from the main bus station to various points in Split, including Varos. If you are arriving by train, the Split railway station is about a 20-minute walk from Varos. Taxis and rideshare services are available for a more convenient option.

Varos is a compact neighborhood, best explored on foot. The narrow streets are charming and pedestrian-friendly. Local buses can take you to nearby neighborhoods, while taxis are available for longer trips or when public transport is less frequent. Bicycles can be rented from local shops, offering a great way to explore the coastal paths along the Riva.

Varos is generally safe for tourists, but it’s wise to take standard precautions. Avoid poorly lit streets at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. Petty theft can occur near popular tourist spots, so keep your valuables secure. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always trust your instincts.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Local hospitals and clinics are available in Split, with the nearest hospital located about 1 km from Varos. Always have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are located throughout the neighborhood.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets. Don't wear overly casual or beachwear outside of the beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to those in need. Don't bring large bags onto public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Dobar dan' (Good day). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at taverns. Don't drink alcohol in public parks or areas where it is prohibited.

To experience Varos like a local, visit the local bakeries for fresh pastries in the morning. Engage with the residents, who are often eager to share stories about their neighborhood. Check out the local markets for fresh produce and traditional crafts. Don't miss the sunset views from the Marjan Hill, a short hike away, which is a favorite among locals.