Archaeological Museum Split

The Archaeological Museum Split, known locally as Arheološki muzej u Splitu, is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Croatia. Established in 1820, it holds the prestigious title of being the oldest museum in the country. Located at Zrinsko-Frankopanska 25 in Split, this museum offers a fascinating journey through time, from prehistoric eras to the early Middle Ages, showcasing the region's vibrant history.

A Brief History of the Archaeological Museum Split

The origins of the Archaeological Museum Split can be traced back to the early 16th century when the Split humanist Dominik Papalić began collecting ancient inscriptions and pictorial tablets from the ruins of Salona (modern-day Solin). This collection, which he started with the help of the renowned poet Marko Marulić, laid the foundation for what would become the museum.

Officially founded in 1820 by a decree of the Dalmatian government in Zadar, the museum initially occupied a building next to the eastern walls of Diocletian's Palace. However, the growing collection of artifacts soon necessitated a larger space. In 1912, under the direction of the Catholic priest and archaeologist Frane Bulić, construction began on a new building designed by Viennese architects August Kirstein and Friedrich Ohmann. Despite delays caused by World War I, the new neo-Romanesque building opened to the public in early 1922.

The Museum Complex

The Archaeological Museum Split is housed in a two-story main building, with exhibition halls on the ground floor and a library and study rooms on the first floor. The building is surrounded by a row of arcades that house the lapidarium, an impressive collection of stone inscriptions. An attached garden provides a serene setting for visitors to reflect on the historical significance of the artifacts on display.

The museum also operates a branch in Solin, where visitors can explore the ancient ruins of Salona and the Tusculum, as well as two regional centers: one in Vid near Metković, which houses the Narona Collection, and another on the island of Vis.

Exploring the Exhibits

The Archaeological Museum Split boasts a diverse array of exhibits that cover various periods and aspects of the region's history. Among the most notable collections are the stone inscriptions from Salona, which provide invaluable insights into the lives and beliefs of the ancient inhabitants.

The Graeco-Hellenistic collection features ceramic objects that highlight the artistic and cultural influences of Greek colonization in the Adriatic. Roman glass artifacts, ancient clay lamps, bone and metal articles, gems, and medieval coins further enrich the museum's offerings, painting a vivid picture of daily life and trade in ancient times.

One of the museum's unique attractions is its underwater archaeological collection, which showcases artifacts recovered from the depths of the Adriatic Sea. These items, ranging from shipwrecked cargo to ancient maritime tools, offer a glimpse into the seafaring history of the region.

Research and Publications

The Archaeological Museum Split is not just a repository of artifacts; it is also a hub of scholarly research. The museum conducts archaeological excavations at several significant sites, including Salona, Issa (on the island of Vis), and Narona. These ongoing research efforts continue to uncover new findings that shed light on the ancient history of Dalmatia.

Since 1878, the museum has published the Bullettino di archeologia e storia dalmata (Journal of Dalmatian Archeology and History), the first archaeological journal in Croatia. This publication has played a crucial role in disseminating knowledge and fostering scholarly discourse on the region's archaeological heritage.

Collections and Highlights

The museum's collections span a vast chronological range, covering prehistory, the Greek and Roman periods, and the early Middle Ages. Among the eight main collections are:

• Early Christian Collection: Focuses on the Christian archaeology of Dalmatia.
• Old Croatian Collection: Explores the arrival and settlement of the Croats in the Balkans.
• Epigraphic Collection: Features inscriptions that provide insights into ancient languages and scripts.
• Greek-Hellenistic Collection: Highlights the Greek colonization of Dalmatia.
• Underwater Archaeology Collection: Showcases artifacts recovered from the Adriatic Sea.
• Numismatic Collection: Contains over 70,000 ancient and medieval coins.
• Roman Provincial Collection: Chronicles the history of the Roman province of Dalmatia.
• Prehistoric Collection: Examines the history and culture of the Illyrians.

A Must-Visit Destination

Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual tourist, the Archaeological Museum Split offers a captivating experience that transports you through millennia of human history. The museum's extensive collections, combined with its ongoing research and publications, make it an essential destination for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of Croatia.

So, when you find yourself in Split, be sure to carve out some time to explore the Archaeological Museum Split. It's a journey through time that you won't soon forget!