Cathedral of Saint Domnius
Splitsko-dalmatinska županija
The Cathedral of Saint Domnius, located within the Diocletian's Palace complex in Split, Croatia, stands as the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world. Initially constructed in the early 4th century as the mausoleum for Roman Emperor Diocletian, it was later transformed into a Christian church following the Christianization of the region. After the destruction of the nearby city of Salona in the 7th century, survivors resettled in the palace, converting the mausoleum into a cathedral dedicated to Saint Domnius, the first bishop of Salona and a Christian martyr. Architecturally, the cathedral retains its original octagonal form with a dome and Corinthian columns, blending Roman imperial and medieval Christian elements. Noteworthy features include the intricately carved wooden doors by Andrija Buvina from 1214, depicting 28 scenes from the life of Jesus, and the bell tower, likely built in the 13th century. Inside, the cathedral houses a hexagonal pulpit made of precious porphyry and marble, a testament to medieval craftsmanship. The cathedral also holds relics of saints and historical artifacts, symbolizing its religious and cultural significance in Dalmatia and Croatia.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the cathedral during the morning hours to avoid crowds and to appreciate the detailed wooden doors and interior artworks. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The cathedral is accessible via public transportation and is located centrally within Split's historic district.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral is the oldest Catholic cathedral still in use in the world.
- •Its wooden doors, carved in 1214 by local master Andrija Buvina, are a rare example of Romanesque wooden art in Europe.
- •The bell tower was likely funded by Kolafisa, widow of a local noble, as recorded in a lost 1257 inscription.
- •The cathedral was originally the mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian, who persecuted early Christians, including Saint Domnius.
- •Inside the cathedral is a pulpit made from rare red and green porphyry, materials likely repurposed from the imperial sarcophagus.
History
Originally built as Emperor Diocletian's mausoleum in the early 4th century, the structure was converted into a Christian cathedral in the 7th century after the fall of Salona.
The cathedral became the metropolitan church of the region, housing relics of Saint Domnius and other martyrs.
Over the centuries, it underwent architectural modifications including the addition of the bell tower in the 13th century and the installation of the ornate wooden doors in 1214.
The cathedral's status was elevated until the papal bull of 1828, which recognized its primatial role.
It has since remained a central religious and cultural landmark in Split.
Place Guide
Wooden Doors by Andrija Buvina1214
These intricately carved walnut doors date back to 1214 and depict 28 scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. They are exceptionally well preserved except for the lower parts worn by foot traffic and are a rare example of Romanesque wooden art in Europe.
Bell Tower13th century
Constructed likely in the 13th century, the bell tower is a prominent feature of the cathedral complex. Local tradition credits Kolafisa, widow of noble Ivan Krčki, as a donor. The tower offers panoramic views of Split and the Adriatic coast.
Hexagonal Pulpit1257
Built in 1257 by master Mavro, this pulpit is made from precious red and green porphyry, possibly sourced from the destroyed imperial sarcophagus. It stands on six marble columns with elaborately carved capitals and is a masterpiece of medieval stonework.
Contact
Phone: 021 345 602
