Co-Cathedral of Saint Peter the Apostle

The Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, located in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace in Split, is a majestic work that encapsulates centuries of history, art, and faith. Originally the mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian, this building has been transformed over the centuries into a Christian cathedral, representing an extraordinary example of adaptation and cultural continuity. The construction of Diocletian’s Palace began in 295 AD and was completed in 305 AD. This imposing complex, designed as a combination of an imperial villa and a military fortress, occupied an area of about 30,000 square meters. At the center of the palace, the octagonal mausoleum was erected to house the remains of Diocletian, one of the last great emperors of the Roman Empire.With the advent of Christianity and the fall of the Roman Empire, the mausoleum underwent a significant transformation. In the 7th century, the mausoleum was converted into a Christian church dedicated to Saint Domnius, the bishop of Salona martyred during Diocletian’s persecutions. This conversion symbolized the victory of Christianity over paganism, making the structure a place of worship and a spiritual center for the local Christian community.The cathedral’s architecture is a fascinating mix of styles that reflects the different historical periods the building has gone through. The oldest element is the original octagonal structure of the mausoleum, with its tall drum decorated with niches and Corinthian columns. Above the drum rises a dome, which is adorned inside with an elaborate coffered ceiling, a rare example of well-preserved Roman decoration.The cathedral’s bell tower, added in the 13th century, is one of Split’s most recognizable symbols. Standing at 60 meters tall, the bell tower is a magnificent example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with its distinct levels reflecting the different construction phases. Climbing the numerous steps of the bell tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Split and the Adriatic Sea.Inside the cathedral, one of the most significant works is the main altar, made in the 13th century. This altar, dedicated to Saint Domnius, is adorned with a ciborium carved with figures of saints and angels. The cathedral also houses a precious treasure, including numerous religious artifacts, relics, and liturgical objects of great historical and artistic value.Another notable feature of the cathedral is the wooden choir, made in the 13th century, which is one of the oldest examples of wooden craftsmanship in Croatia. The choir benches are decorated with intricate carvings depicting biblical scenes and floral motifs, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of medieval artisans.The Cathedral Treasury Museum, located next to the cathedral, houses an exceptional collection of sacred objects. Among the most precious pieces are the 13th-century Gospel book, decorated with golden miniatures, and the silver cross of Saint Domnius, a reliquary containing fragments of the saint’s bones. This museum provides valuable insight into Split’s rich religious history and the importance of the cathedral as a spiritual and cultural center.An interesting anecdote concerns the statue of Saint Domnius, located in the cathedral. Legend has it that during the construction of the cathedral, the statue was miraculously transported by angels from its original location to Split, symbolizing divine protection over the city. This legend helped solidify the cult of Saint Domnius as the city’s patron saint and the cathedral as an important pilgrimage site.