City Museum of Split

The City Museum of Split, located in the heart of the old town, offers a fascinating window into the rich history and cultural heritage of Split. Housed in a Renaissance Gothic palace known as the Papalić Palace, the museum tells the story of the city through a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and artworks spanning several centuries. The Papalić Palace, which houses the museum, is a 15th-century architectural masterpiece. Built by the Papalić family, one of the most influential patrician families in Split, the palace is an excellent example of Dalmatian Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The facade of the palace is decorated with elegant mullioned windows and stone sculptures that reflect the skill of local craftsmen. The interior of the palace is equally impressive, with vaulted ceilings and architectural details that testify to the wealth and refined taste of the Papalić family.The museum is spread over several floors of the palace and features a series of permanent and temporary exhibitions that explore the history of Split from its foundation to the present day. One of the most fascinating sections of the museum is dedicated to the Roman period, with a collection of artifacts dating back to the time of Diocletian’s Palace. Among these are architectural fragments, coins, ceramics, and other objects that offer a detailed glimpse into the daily life and culture of ancient Split.Another highlight of the museum is the collection of historical documents and manuscripts, including ancient city statutes, maps, geographical charts, and rare books. These documents are essential for understanding the political, social, and economic evolution of Split over the centuries. Among the most precious manuscripts is the Codex of Statuta Spalatensia, a collection of laws and regulations that governed the city in the Middle Ages.Religious art occupies a prominent place in the museum’s collection, with a series of paintings, sculptures, and liturgical objects from the churches and monasteries of Split. These artworks not only illustrate the religious devotion of the city but also reflect the influence of European artistic currents on local production. Among the most notable works are the paintings of the Dalmatian master Andrija Medulić, also known as Andrea Schiavone, who worked mainly in Venice but also left a significant mark in his homeland.The medieval and Renaissance history of Split is told through a series of artifacts that include weapons, armor, and tools. These objects offer a glimpse into daily life, craft traditions, and military practices of the city. Particularly interesting is the collection of seals and coins, which highlight the importance of Split as a commercial and political center during the Middle Ages.One of the distinctive features of the City Museum of Split is its focus on the urban and architectural history of the city. The exhibitions include scale models and reconstructions of historic buildings, which help visitors understand the evolution of Split’s urban fabric. These models are accompanied by historical photographs and maps that document the city’s changes over time. From a political and social perspective, the City Museum of Split has played an important role in preserving the city’s historical memory. During periods of conflict and political change, the museum has been a guardian of the cultural heritage, working to protect and preserve Split’s historical treasures. This commitment continues today, with restoration and research projects aimed at keeping the city’s history alive for future generations.An interesting anecdote concerns the discovery of an ancient Roman mosaic during the restoration works of the palace. This mosaic, depicting mythological scenes and Christian symbols, has been carefully restored and is now displayed in one of the museum’s rooms. The discovery of this mosaic has provided new information about the Roman presence in Split and the decorative art of the time.