TOP CROATIAN DESTINATIONS: TROGIR CITY (PART 1)

Time for me to cover another Croatian top destination: Trogir. Yes, today I'm taking you to Trogir city. Trogir has one of the best preserved Romanesque- Gothic complexes in Europe. The city can boost with numerous historical landmarks. It has a high concentration of historical churches, towers, structures and a fortress. Literally, every where you look, you'll be beholding history. 

This charming historical city is located on a small island between Croatian coastline and island Čiovo. It is located only 27 kilometers from Split city. Moreover, it's only a five minute drive from the airport Split. In fact, airport Split is closer to Trogir then it is to Split city. If you're visiting this area or landing to Split airport, don't miss  the chance to visit this little city. You won't regret it, I promise. If you want to see how this place looks like in summer time, feel free to visit this Trogir travel post of mine.

What can I say about Trogir that I haven't said already? It is definitely one of the most beautiful coastal city I have ever visited. Filled with so much history and stunning architecture to prove it,  Trogir feels quite magical. Every time I'm there I feel like I've stepped into a Renaissance fairy tale.  I'm always amazed by its beautiful stone labyrinths, tiny streets and picaresque squares. Trogir is one of those absolutely gorgeous Mediterranean coastal towns. I have a feeling I could stroll around Trogir forever and never get bored. It is a dream destination for a history lover. If you're interested in  historical architecture, this is the place to go. 

The history of Trogic city is quite interesting. It was formed in the 3rd century BC by Greek wanderers and during its long history Trogir has incorporated Roman, Venetian and Dalmatian architecture influences into its urban structure. We are talking about 2300 years of urban tradition, and this incredible historical background can really be felt when you're strolling the streets of Trogir. Upon arriving to Trogir, you will feel like you have stepped back in time. The old part of the town is protected by the UNESCO World Heritage Site. UNESCO praised this city in its report by pointing out some of its key attractions: the ancient Hellenistic structure, the beautiful Romanesque churches and outstanding Renaissance and Baroque buildings from the Venetian period. 

 

THE CATHEDRAL OF SAINT LAWRENCE (TROGIR CATHEDRAL)

One of most popular sights in Trogir is the city cathedral. The cathedral of saint Lawrence is a Roman catholic basilica built in the Romanesque- Gothic style. The construction of cathedral lasted  several centuries making its final look a mixture of styles. Moreover, because of its long construction, this cathedral is a monument to different historical architectural styles. The construction of Saint Lawrence cathedral began in 13th  century and ended in 17th century. The cathedral was build on a foundation of an Early christian cathedral (also decided to saint Lawrence) that was destroyed by the Saracens in the 12th century. This is the case with some other Dalmatian cathedrals I blogged about. Most of the work on the cathedral was done in the 13 century and completed by 1251 hence the cathedral is mostly build in Romanesque style. The vault inside the church was build in 15th century and was build in Mannerist (late Romance) style. 

THE ROMANESQUE PORTAL

One of the most striking things about Saint Lawrence cathedral is its Romanesque portal located at the main entrance. Carved from stone, this magnificent portal is the work of local (Croatian) architect and sculptor known as master Radovan. Some of his students worked on it as well. Completed and signed in 1240, this work of art has stood the test of time and still continues to impress visitors. The upper part of the portal shows scenes from the gospel and the life of Christ. On the lunette there is a scene of Navity and above it angels looking at the scene. There are many human forms portrayed on the portal ( saints and apostles) as well as some exotic animals. Besides the portal (one on each side of the main entrance) there are two stone lions. Eve and Adam stand on the back of the lions, guarding the portal. This Romanesque portal is a truly unique  historical work of art. 

INSIDE OF THE CATHEDRAL OF SAINT LAWRENCE

Once you get pass the Romanesque portal and step inside the cathedral, you'll find many things to see. I was mostly impressed by the stone statues. For centuries, Dalmatian people were known as stone artisans. Most Dalmatian cathedral have amazing stone statues and details. For admirers of art, there are also fine historical paintings and beautiful altars. 

 


MAIN SIGHTS TO SEE IN TROGIR CITY

The list of major historical sights  and landmarks to see in Trogir includes:
- The UNESCO protected historical centre (its key attractions being the ten historical churches and numerous buildings dating back to 13th century)
- The Cathedral with the portral of Master Radovan
- The City Gate (15th century)
- The City Walls (17th century)
- The Palaces Cipiko (15th century)
- The fortress Kamerlengo ( 15th century)
- The City loggia (15th century)







COLOURFUL STREETS OF TROGIR CITY

Once you're in Trogir, don't forget to explore it. This city has many wonderful hidden corners. I recommend that you explore it on foot. This kind of historical beauty deserves to be enjoyed slowly. Stroll around until you get tired and then you can relax with a cup of coffee and tea or an ice-cream. We had both when we were there. I loved wandering through this historical city and this little colourful alley was one of my favourite finds. I did a lot of walking that day, even some hiking, but more about that some other time.
 

Thank you for reading. I have another Trogir post prepared for you. Let me know if you have any questions. Have a great start of the week.

TO BE CONTINUED.....