Archaeological Museum of Split

The Archaeological Museum of Split, founded in 1820, is the oldest museum in Croatia and represents a fundamental stop for anyone wishing to understand the rich history and cultural heritage of Dalmatia. Located in a neoclassical building designed by architect Vicko Andrić, the museum is situated near the historic center of Split, not far from the ancient city walls. The museum is renowned for its extraordinary collection of artifacts covering a wide range of time periods, from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. One of the strengths of the collection is the section dedicated to ancient Salona, the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. Salona was a thriving city until its destruction in the 7th century, and archaeological excavations have unearthed an impressive amount of artifacts that testify to the daily life, religion, and culture of this important urban center. Among the most significant artifacts related to Salona, the museum displays numerous Latin inscriptions documenting funerary inscriptions, votive offerings, and official decrees. These inscriptions not only provide valuable historical information, but are also exceptional examples of Roman calligraphy. The collection also includes a series of sculptures, including imperial portraits and mythological figures, highlighting the skill of local sculptors and the artistic richness of the city. Another highlight of the museum is the collection of ceramics and pottery, which provides a detailed picture of daily practices and trade in ancient Dalmatia. These artifacts include amphorae, plates, and cups decorated with geometric and figurative motifs, reflecting the cultural influences of the peoples who have inhabited the region over the millennia. The Archaeological Museum of Split also houses a vast collection of paleochristian artifacts, including reliquaries, crosses, and other liturgical objects. These artifacts, largely from the churches and basilicas of Salona, offer a glimpse into the spread of Christianity in the region and the importance of the city as a religious center. Particularly notable is the collection of sarcophagi decorated with biblical scenes and Christian symbols, which testify to the faith and art of the early Christians of Dalmatia. In addition to Roman and paleochristian artifacts, the museum also has a section dedicated to prehistory, with artifacts dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. These artifacts include stone tools, weapons, and ornaments that show the early human activities in the region. The prehistoric collection offers a fascinating overview of the cultures that preceded the arrival of the Romans, highlighting the long and complex history of Dalmatia. From an artistic point of view, the museum also boasts a collection of ancient jewelry and coins, illustrating the evolution of aesthetic taste and technology over the centuries. The coins, in particular, offer valuable information on local economies and trade between the different civilizations of the Mediterranean. An interesting anecdote concerns one of the most precious objects in the museum: the so-called “Kalender of Split,” a marble calendar discovered in Salona. This artifact is one of the few surviving testimonies of a provincial Roman calendar, listing the months and local festivities, offering a unique glimpse into the religious and social life of the city.