Republic Square

Prokurative, also known as Republic Square, is one of the most emblematic places in Split, Croatia. Located on the western side of the old town, this square represents a meeting point between history, architecture, and cultural life. Its construction began in the second half of the 19th century under the leadership of Mayor Antonio Bajamonti, who wanted to transform Split into a modern city inspired by the great European cities. Prokurative is surrounded on three sides by neorenaissance buildings, with the fourth side open, offering a splendid view of the harbor and the Riva. This design is reminiscent of St. Mark’s Square in Venice, paying homage to the Italian influence that has permeated the culture and architecture of Split. The arcades and decorative reliefs under the windows give the square a timeless elegance, making it an ideal place for walks and social gatherings. The square was conceived as a cultural and social center, and from the beginning it hosted numerous public events. The Bajamonti Theater, inaugurated in 1859, was one of the main structures of the square, although it was destroyed by a fire in 1882. This theater represented the beating heart of Split’s cultural life, a place where the community gathered to enjoy theatrical and musical performances. Today, Prokurative continues to be a vital center for culture and entertainment. Every summer, the square comes alive with the Split Music Festival, an event that attracts artists and spectators from around the world. This festival, along with other cultural events and concerts, transforms the square into an open-air stage, where art and music come to life under the stars. From an architectural point of view, Prokurative is a remarkable example of how architecture can reflect and celebrate cultural influences. The neorenaissance buildings surrounding the square are characterized by elegant arcades and decorative details reminiscent of Venetian style. This architectural style pays tribute to Split’s rich history and its position as a crossroads between the cultures of Central Europe and the Mediterranean. An interesting anecdote related to Prokurative concerns the construction of the surrounding buildings. It is said that the original project included decorative reliefs on all sides of the buildings, but the designer, a Venetian architect, abandoned the project due to homesickness, leaving one side without decorations. This detail adds a human touch to the square’s history, reminding us how personal influences can leave a lasting imprint on architecture. In recent years, Prokurative has undergone several renovations to preserve its beauty and functionality. These interventions have included the restoration of the facades of the buildings, improving lighting, and maintaining the arcades. These efforts have ensured that the square can continue to be an architectural gem and a vital center for Split’s cultural life.