Bell Tower of San Michele

The Bell Tower of St. Michael in Split is one of the most fascinating and historically rich landmarks in the city. Built in the 13th century, this tower is a significant example of Romanesque architecture in Dalmatia, characterized by a solid and massive structure that reflects the style of the time. The bell tower is located next to the Cathedral of St. Domnius, originally built as a mausoleum for the Roman emperor Diocletian. The tower was added later, starting from 1100, and its construction lasted for over three hundred years. This long construction period allowed the tower to reflect various architectural styles, making it a mosaic of artistic trends that have succeeded over the centuries. The lower floors of the tower show a more massive and robust Romanesque architecture, while the upper floors, built in the Gothic period, appear lighter and more ornate. One of the most remarkable features of the bell tower is its height, exceeding 60 meters, making it one of the tallest and most distinctive bell towers in the region. Climbing the tower is a must-do experience for visitors to Split: although the ascent may be challenging due to the numerous steep steps, the panoramic view from the top more than compensates for the effort. From the top, you can admire a breathtaking panorama of the old town, the harbor, and the surrounding islands. The interior of the tower is equally fascinating, with stairs and passages showcasing the construction skills of medieval masters. Unfortunately, many of the original decorations of the tower were lost during the restoration works at the beginning of the 20th century. These interventions, although necessary to preserve the structure, removed many carved details and reliefs that adorned the tower, replacing them with simpler elements in a neo-Gothic style. The complex of the Cathedral of St. Domnius, of which the bell tower is a part, is a true book of architectural history. The cathedral itself was converted from Diocletian’s mausoleum into a Christian church in the 7th century. The interior of the cathedral is a treasure trove of sacred art, with works by Andrija Buvina and other medieval artists who contributed to creating an environment rich in spirituality and beauty. The bell tower has played a significant role in the religious and social life of Split. The bells of the tower not only mark moments of prayer and liturgical celebrations but have also marked historical events and crucial moments for the local community. Their voice has been a constant call to faith and resilience of the inhabitants of Split through the centuries. An interesting anecdote concerns the restoration of the bell tower in 1908, which was controversial due to the significant changes made to the original structure. Many critics of the time lamented the loss of Romanesque sculptures and decorations that gave the tower its unique character. However, these restoration works also allowed the tower to survive and continue to be a symbol of Split.