Stretching out among the olive groves west of Solin, just inland from Split, the ruins of Roman Salona are among the most impressive remains in Croatia. Founded as a market settlement by ancient Greeks, it went on to become the capital of Dalmatia under the Romans, boasting a population of 60,000 in its heyday. Salona may have been the birthplace of Emperor Diocletian, hence his desire to retire to the nearby palace complex that subsequently became modern Split.

Excavations

The subject of archeological excavations since the late nineteenth century (when a leading role was played by Split archeological pioneer Frane Bulić), the huge site remains only partially uncovered, and much of the ancient city still lies beneath the fields where local farmers come to tend their vines and fruit trees.

Basilica & forum

There is still a great deal to see, however, beginning with the early Christian basilica complex known as Manastirine near the site entrance. Boasting substantial remains of several churches and littered with stone tombs, this part of the city attests to Salona’s importance as a key centre of early Christianity. Less well preserved is the area around the Forum, although it’s an evocative location, and one can still imagine chariots and carts rumbling through the fortified Porta Caesarea gate.

Amphitheatre