One of the reasons I decided to visit Split, was because I had read about Salona, the beautiful ancient roman city that existed almost two thousand years ago. A quick bus ride later and I was walking through fields of freshly mowed grass inside the ruins of a spectacular old stone city.
Salona existed from about 300AD to 700AD and was the capital city of Dalmatia.
Getting There
From my apartment, I walked about 10 minutes to the central bus station, then took bus number 37 to Solin. From the bus stop closest to the ruins I walked about another 10 minutes.
Following googles lead, I took a left off the sidewalk and into what first looked like farm acreage. After another 5 or so minutes, I turned a corner and right before my eyes was the ancient city of Salona!
Five Arches Bridge
From my entry into the vast old city, my first sight was that of the five arches bridge. This bridge was built so a road could cross the backwaters of the river Jadro. The road led into the city of Salona.
Thermae
Walking past the bridge, I discovered the Thermae or roman baths. This was one of my favourite areas in Salona. There are very well-preserved rooms, the great room and the piscine, or cold pool area.
I should say that the entire city of Salona was large enough at one time to support 60,000 residents. Now this huge space is open to the public. There are no roped off areas except for 2 places where I saw active archaeological digs taking place.
The rest of the ruins are open for discovery, touching, climbing on and walking through. It is a magical experience to be so immersed in ancient Roman structures.
Aqueduct of Salona
From the Thermae I walked upwards again, towards one wall. I came across the aqueduct and was truly astounded at how well preserved it is. I could clearly make out a drainage or ditch, square in structure. One part still has the cover remaining, so you can stand on the cover and look down into the drains. So cool.
Episcopal Centre
From the aqueduct I climbed up on the northern walls of the city and then back down into the episcopal centre. This are is really well preserved with doorways, tall walls and pieces of carved and engraved marble throughout.
Main Road
From the episcopal centre I walked down the main ancient road, going into and out of other buildings to see what I could find. Other than a man playing fetch with his dog, there was not a single other person in the whole area with me!
Porta Caesarea
I followed the main road down to the Porta Caesarea which is a huge gate that was once had two large towers and three passage ways. This part of the ruins is immense. I could walk through under the gate or climb up on top and walk over and continue above the whole city, following the top of the walls that remain intact.
I would highly recommend everyone visit the ancient city of Salona. The freedom I had as a visitor to explore the entire area, be completely immersed in history and be surrounded by wildflowers and grasses was absolutely wonderful.
HB ☺️
