Saint Domnius Cathedral

"The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, more popularly known as St. Duje's Cathedral, holds the distinction of being the oldest cathedral in the world continuously used for liturgical purposes. Nestled within the heart of Split, it's a captivating landmark standing tall amidst the ancient walls of Diocletian's Palace. Construction of the cathedral began in the 4th century, drawing upon the foundations of Diocletian's mausoleum. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous transformations and additions. The 12th century saw the addition of the bell tower, while the facade was revamped in the 19th century. Standing as a testament to the blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, the cathedral exudes an air of grandeur. Stepping inside reveals a richly adorned interior, boasting sculptures, mosaics, and paintings. The 18th-century altar of St. Duje is a particularly striking highlight."

"The original structure of St Domnius Cathedral was built in the 4th century, originally designed as a mausoleum for Diocletian. In the 7th century it was remodeled into a cathedral and named for the patron saint of Split, Saint Domnius. During Diocletian's persecutions of the Christians, Domnius the local bishop was beheaded just outside of Split in Solana (Now known as Solin), the year before the original structure was built. Talk about irony."

"This is the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world and it’s one of the most important places to visit in Split. This construction is so impressive that you actually can see it from afar, so don’t worry, you are not going to miss it. If you want to experience a spectacular view of the city, climb the 200 steps of the bell tower. This is something that we missed because we were too tired that day. "