Salona – A Fascinating Historical Site Near Split

If you’re staying in Split and want to combine beautiful nature with rich local history, a half-day trip to the ancient ruins of Salona is one of the best things you can do.

Located in today’s town of Solin, just a short drive from Split, Salona was once the powerful capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia — and one of the most important cities in the region.

From Illyrian Settlement to Roman Capital

Salona was originally founded around 2,200 years ago by the Illyrian tribe known as the Delmati. After the Roman conquest, the city flourished and became the administrative center of the Roman province of Dalmatia.

At its peak, nearly 60,000 people lived here — an impressive number for the ancient world.

The city was surrounded by strong defensive walls to protect it from barbarian invasions. Inside the walls, Salona featured:

• Paved streets

• Public squares

• Temples

• Roman baths

• A theatre

• A large amphitheatre

However, in the 7th century, Salona was destroyed by Avar and Slavic forces. Its residents fled to nearby Split and found refuge within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace — a key moment that shaped the history of modern Split.

The Amphitheatre of Salona

One of the most impressive remains you can explore today is the ancient amphitheatre, built in the 2nd century AD and cleverly integrated into the city’s fortification system.

This massive structure could accommodate around 17,000 spectators. The arena could even be covered with canvas to protect visitors from sun or rain — an advanced feature for its time.

The amphitheatre witnessed:

• Gladiator battles

• Animal fights

• Christian martyrdoms

Although gladiator fights were banned in the 5th century AD, animal combats continued for some time. Later, in the 17th century, the Venetians partially demolished the structure for strategic military reasons during wars against the Ottoman Empire.

Roman Baths – The Great Thermae

The Romans were famous for their bathing culture, and Salona was no exception. The most significant bath complex here is the Great Thermae, built in the late 2nd or early 3rd century AD.

These public baths were not only places for hygiene but also social and political meeting points — true centers of Roman daily life.

Kapljuč – Early Christian Heritage

As you walk from the amphitheatre toward the Great Thermae, you’ll reach the area known as Kapljuč.

Here you’ll find the remains of a 4th-century basilica cemetery dedicated to five martyrs of Solin: the priest Asterio and four soldiers who were executed during the persecutions under Emperor Diocletian.

The Kapljuč complex includes:

• The remains of the cathedral (basilica urbana)

• An octagonal baptistery

• The bishop’s residence

• The Basilica of Bishop Honorius, built in the shape of a Greek cross

The site takes its name from the nearby stream flowing down from Mount Kozjak, adding a peaceful natural backdrop to this deeply historical setting.

Discover More at the Archaeological Museum

To fully understand how the citizens of Salona lived, a visit to the Archaeological Museum in Split is highly recommended. The museum preserves numerous artifacts uncovered during excavations in Salona, offering deeper insight into daily Roman life, religion, art, and architecture.

Why Visit Salona?

If you’re searching for:

• Ancient Roman ruins near Split

• A cultural day trip from Split

• Historical sites in Dalmatia

• Outdoor activities combined with heritage

Salona is the perfect choice.

Surrounded by open landscapes and far from city crowds, this archaeological site allows you to walk through centuries of history at your own pace. It’s not just a ruin — it’s the birthplace of Split’s story.