Split City Squares: Republic Square, People’s Square, Fruit Square

Generally, any tourist tour around the ancient Croatian city of Split begins with a visit to its main landmark, the ancient Diocletian’s Palace, the residence of the Roman emperor. Only locals know that their hometown’s discovery should instead start from the old city squares, the most beautiful of which is located outside the ancient palace walls.

Picturesque Republic Square (Prokurative) is adjacent to the western walls and surrounded by splendid landmarks of antique Renaissance architecture. Legendary Venetian St. Mark’s Square inspired its architects. Did they succeed in achieving likeness? Perhaps they did, as there should have been a reason for it to have become the central square of Split. All administrative services, including the city council, opted to reside at this beautiful place. Besides, it offers a fabulous view of the harbor and seafront, the city’s best spot to greet the sunrise and enjoy the sunset.

Republic Square comes particularly lively during the summer music festival, regularly held in Split since 1950. Leaving it behind, head over to People’s Square (Pjaca), located in the western part of the city. Unlike Republic Square, it is situated on the premises of the ancient Diocletian’s Palace.

Medieval People’s Square was erected in the 15th century near the Iron Gate and the majestic Saint Domnius Cathedral. Like a splendid picture frame, it is set off by magnificent landmarks of medieval architecture, the glorious Gothic Cambi Castle, and the impressive building of the Town Hall, where the Split Town Hall still sits today.

And finally, Fruit Square (Brace Radic) that got its name from the fruit market that existed there in the Middle Ages. Simultaneously, in the middle of the 15th century, an octagonal observation tower in the Venetian style was erected here. It still adorns the square. Directly opposite the tower rises the magnificent Milesi Palace, a remarkable example of traditional Dalmatian architecture.