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Enjoying history and boats in Split

 Split, Croati

 Split is not one of those cities that you see on the lists—you know the ones that publications put out that say, “Ten best places to visit in 2014.”  It didn’t even make the “50 Top Cities to see before you die” that I recently perused.

It is an interesting destination, however, filled with history and culture in a beautiful setting between ocean and mountains.

 Split, Croatia

 Split is the second largest city in Croatia, a gorgeous strip of a country along the Adriatic.  Typically Dubrovnik gets all the attention and justifiably so.  The walk around the  wall of the ancient city of Dubrovnik is worth the  plane ride.

Croatia

But Split and the other parts of Croatia have a lot to offer. The long history of Roman,Venetian and Eastern Europe cultures combined with absolutely gorgeous scenery results in a magical and fascinating part of the world to visit.  We recently enjoyed 24 hours in Split after a week of sailing on the Dalmatian Coast.  Here’s what we saw.

Very Old Roman City

First there’s an old city surrounded by a wall, historic and in  in decay.  No cars are allowed inside the old city.  We found a charming hotel in which to stay.  Perfect.  We wandered easily about exploring the narrow streets.

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Old City of Split

 Roman influence in Split

Secondly the Roman history is evident everywhere from the statute of Diocletian, the famous ruler who built a fabulous palace, to the handsome stud muffins in Roman gab who will pose for photos for a few coins.

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Romans in Split

 The interior colonnaded courtyard, the center of palace life, remains and is a gathering spot for many.

Historic Courtyard in Center of Split

 Naturally there were street performers who sang typical Croatian music.  Wonderful harmonies, keeping their culture alive.

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Street Performers in Split

 It’s an active town.  Fish Market. Crafts. Wine Tastings.  Tourists.  Hanging out on the promenade on the sea.

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 Along the Sea in Split, Croatia

We saw lots  of boats.  Cruise ships. Tiny sailboats racing.  Boats along the waterfront.  We were there at the time of a Boat show which seemed to be well attended.

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 Boats are a big attraction in this area.  I got a kick out of this guy, protecting his young child from the sun while he meandered the boat show and then I saw him later examining the boat catalogs.  Apparently the child enjoyed looking at the boat brochure too. I wonder if they decided on one.

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Looking at boat Brochures

Post Author
Susan J. Smith
Susan's career includes writing for newspapers, lots of community work and a wonderful family life. Now she is enjoying traveling, photography and writing for DesignDestinations and Grand Rapids Magazine. She welcomes you on her journey and appreciates your comments.

Comments

5 Comments
  1. posted by
    RB
    Jul 14, 2014 Reply

    So interesting (once again)! I wonder about the nationality of the tourists. Could you tell what countries were represented? I noticed the bilingual (Croatian/English) banner.

    • posted by
      Susan J. Smith
      Jul 14, 2014 Reply

      Good question. When we were sailing we moored next to lots of German and English sailors. The most beautiful boat we saw was owned by a Swedish couple.

      You see English because everyone speaks English in Europe. It is really rare in the Tourist areas not to see English signage but we read lots of French, German, Italian and Eastern European languages.

      My guess is that most of the tourists are European or Asian. Americans are just starting to discover the beauty and charm of Croatia.

      Will be blogging about our sailing trip in a week or so. It was spectacular.

  2. posted by
    peggy depersia
    Jul 15, 2014 Reply

    The one thing I recall while driving along the Adriatic Coast many years ago is that all roads seems to lead to Split and ‘rooms available’ were indicated by the German word, zimmer. I imagined that northern Europeans were captivated by this coast and the most frequent vacationers. I remember it as being a beautiful drive.

  3. posted by
    Melanie
    Jul 15, 2014 Reply

    Very beautiful photos and story. It certainly makes me want to go there! What a wonderful trip you had.

  4. posted by
    Kathy
    Jul 16, 2014 Reply

    Fascinating place! I sure like the fact that you do not have to dodge cars in those narrow streets. The Roman influences make it look like the real thing. What awesome colors, you must of had a beautiful day!

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