7 Romantic Places on the Adriatic
January 14, 2025
Top 5 ideas for a rainy day on the Adriatic
January 14, 2025Did you know that most towns on the Adriatic coast were built on the foundations of former Roman settlements? Roman settlements on the Adriatic served various purposes, from important trading ports to private retreats, and their construction style, consisting of an oval layout with rectangular streets, is still noticeable today. Ancient culture continues to fascinate people with its influence, making well-preserved ancient monuments some of the most visited tourist attractions. Discover which ancient landmarks you must visit if you’re spending your vacation on the Adriatic coast in our list of five recommendations.
Diocletian's Palace
Vestibule, Diocletian's Palace
Diocletian's Palace is one of the best-preserved monuments of Roman architecture in the world and is located in the very heart of Split. It was built in 300 AD at the request of Diocletian himself, who lived there from the day of his abdication from the throne (305 AD) until his death (316 AD). The palace was constructed as a combination of a luxurious residence and a Roman military camp (castrum), divided by two main streets running through its center. The southern part of the palace was intended for the emperor and his personal needs, while the northern part was designated for his army, servants, and livestock. Life in the palace did not end with Diocletian's death, as it remained under the ownership of the Roman court and later became home to Roman elite families. A turning point for the palace was the settlement of Salona's residents after barbarians plundered the city in the 7th century. Since then, the palace became the center of urban growth, giving rise to the city of Split (Spalato). Although many parts of the palace were later adapted due to the activities and lifestyles of its inhabitants, much of the original structure has been successfully preserved. Diocletian's Palace is not just an extraordinary ancient monument; it is also an important part of national and global architecture. Along with medieval and Renaissance additions, the palace is considered a significant historical and archaeological site, which is the main reason for its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Amphitheater in Solin
The Roman remains of Salona are located near the town of Solin, just a few kilometers north of Split and Diocletian's Palace. It is considered an exceptional archaeological gem and a fantastic destination for all lovers of ancient Roman history. Originally, it served as a port for the local Illyrian tribe, the Dalmati, and later became the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. At its peak, it was a densely populated city with an estimated population of 60,000, and during the Tetrarchy (rule of four emperors), it was known as a retreat for wealthy Roman citizens. In Solin, you can find the remains of an amphitheater believed to have been built around the 2nd century. Despite its modest size, it could accommodate about 18,000 spectators. There are also the ruins of the Great Baths, a significant thermal bathing complex constructed in Salona around the 3rd century. Notably, two main aqueducts are located in the vicinity. One was built for Salona in the 1st century, and the other served the needs of Diocletian's Palace in the 4th century, both transporting water from the Jadro River springs.
Pula
Entrance to the Pula Arena
Pula (ancient Pola) is best known for its magnificent Arena, the sixth largest and one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. It is unique as the only Roman amphitheater with four side towers and three completely preserved architectural orders. Built in the 1st century during the Flavian dynasty outside the old city walls, it now hosts numerous events such as a film festival, opera season, and more. For a full "bread and circuses" experience, visit Spectacvla Antiqva, an event that recreates historical Roman gladiator battles. The Arena was also used for simulated naval battles, as evidenced by the large underground rooms that were filled with water from the aqueduct.In Pula, you can also visit the Temple of Augustus, built between the 2nd century BC and 14 AD, which has had multiple purposes throughout history, including pagan rituals, later reorganized as a church during Venetian rule, and turned into a museum in the early 19th century. While walking in Pula, don't miss strolling through the Arch of the Sergii, a triumphal arch originally built as the main city gate in 27 BC, later restored in honor of the victory at Actium by order of Lucius Sergius Lepidus, a Roman tribune who also participated in the battles.
Burnum
Burnum was a Roman military camp located 2.5 km north of Kistanje. The construction of the site was initiated by the governor of Dalmatia, Publius Cornelius Dolabella, during the reign of Emperor Claudius in the second half of the first century. The site includes the remains of a residential complex and a small amphitheater, but it is mainly known for its 32 km long underground aqueduct. The area is still undergoing archaeological research and reconstruction. Visitors can also explore the Burnum Museum, which houses exhibits from the amphitheater and other parts of the archaeological site.
Zadar
Zadar Forum
In the city of Zadar (Iadera), near the Church of St. Donatus, lie the remains of the Roman Forum, whose construction began during the reign of Emperor Augustus and was completed a century later. The Forum consisted of tall capitols, temples dedicated to Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva, with numerous columns and stone carvings dedicated to Roman gods. One of the columns was used in the Middle Ages as a "pillar of shame," where convicts were chained and humiliated by passing citizens.
