After you’re done with the Split heritage walking tour, you travel by bus to Salona (presently Solin) to delve deep into the city’s past. Solin is a very small town situated just 5 kms away from Split, and the prehistoric ruins lies in the heart of Solin. Salona is renowned throughout Europe as the original colony of the aborigines who were named as Dalmatae.
Incidentally the Dalmatian region has been named after the prehistoric tribes who were the first to inhabit this province. The entire area of Salona which is essentially an archaeological site is Croatia’s largest archaeological park. You can gauge the vastness of this archaeological park by its temples with large quadrangles, amphitheaters, cemeteries replete with catacombs of martyrs and majestic walls.
You see around the archaeological park on foot, and your local guide will update you about the history of Salona.
The major historic landmarks, relics, and architectural wonders that you can explore in Salona includes:-
Manastirine: Constructed outside of the city, Manastirine had already become the ‘city of the dead’ (necropolis) during the Roman era. Afterwards, the necropolis was transformed into a graveyard for the Christians. The patron saint of the city of Split, St. Dominius who was executed and martyred is buried here.
Tusculum: Built by Don Frane Bulić, a well-known archaeologist and clergyman based in Split, the Tusculum these days forms the backdrop for wedding photo shoots. The site shares its name with the villa of Cicero-a celebrated Roman statesman, and even the edifice’s layout resembles the original cottage.
Biskupska: The site houses the palace of the bishop and the relics of two ancient churches that were constructed during the Roman era.
Roman Baths (huge public spa): The Roman Baths served as the chief venue for the hoi polloi of the Roman civilization who congregated here for social interactions. The baths remained in use for many centuries.
Pet Mostova: The main attraction here are the five bridges that were used by the workers employed in the industrial zone situated on the city center’s outskirts.
The Porta Caesarea (Town Gate): The Porta Caesarea functioned as the gateway during the Roman epoch. You can see the chariots’ ruts that are still in pristine condition.
Hram: This is the city’s oldest section where you can see the ruins of a Roman theater, a temple, and a forum.
Cemetery of the 16 Sarcophagi: Another necropolis that juxtaposes the path leading to the amphitheater, contains the tombs of sixteen mummies.
Amphitheater: The amphitheater which is the main tourist draw was constructed most probably in mid 2nd century AD. With an area of more than 2500 sq. meters, the arena has three floors in total, and capable of seating around 17000 spectators.
So if you are travelling to Salona, this is a comprehensive tour that lets you see the city better. Book the tour now.
