A Quick Guide To Split, Croatia

Shipyards, factories, and a busy port present the modern face of Split, which expanded unchecked after World War II. Yet, the Old Town center is still full of charm. It grew up in and around Emperor Diocletian’s vast Roman palace, one of the largest and best-preserved left of the Roman world.

In 614, the palace took in refugees from Salona, razed by the Avars, and these newcomers used the Roman structure as housing. Among the refugees were the bishop and other religious dignitaries. They breathed new life into the bishopric of Split.

After two centuries of Byzantine rule and the establishment of Croat communities, Split became part of the Venetian territories in 1409. Under the Venetians, fortifications emerged, including new walls, and the arts flourished.

Visit the Cathedral of St Domnius

Katedrala sv. Duje

Originally the mausoleum of the emperor Diocletian, the cathedral was consecrated in the 7th century when the sarcophagus containing the body of Diocletian was removed and replaced, with a certain poetic justice, by the remains of St Domnius, a 3rd-century bishop martyred as part of Diocletian’s persecution of the early Christians.

It was the then archbishop of Split who transformed the mausoleum into a Christian church, and St Domnius became the city’s patron saint.

The structure is widely regarded as the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world that has not been substantially rebuilt at any time. Since being first built it has remained practically unaltered except for the construction of a Romanesque bell tower and the addition of the 13th-century choir inside.

An ancient sphinx in black granite rests at the foot of the bell tower. The entrance doorway has wooden panels from 1214, with scenes from the gospel in floral flames. The cathedral, built on an octagonal plan, has a double order of Corinthian columns, most of them the Roman originals.

Address Ul. Kraj Svetog Duje 5, Split

Archaeological Museum Split

The museum was founded in 1820 and has been in its present location since 1914. It has many finds from the Roman, early Christian, and medieval periods which are on exhibition in rotation. Of great interest are the finds from Roman Salona, including sculptures, capitals, sarcophagi, jewelry, coins, and ceramics. There are also finds from the Roman town of Narona.

Ivan Meštrović Gallery Split

Galerija Meštrović

The building housing this gallery was the house of Ivan Meštrović in the early 1930s. The sculptor himself designed the building to be his family house, studio, and gallery. His sculptures, including Distant Accords and Persephone, decorate the garden and the interior.

Among statues in marble, wood, and bronze are The Contemplation, The Vow, and Psyche. Part of the building still preserves the artists' apartments. You can use the same ticket for the Kastilac further down the road at number 39.

This 16th-century house once belonged to the Capogrosso-Kavanjin family and Meštrović bought it in 1939 to set up an exhibition hall. The artist also built a small church here to exhibit a series of reliefs called New Testament, now replaced by a different work, the Author of the Apocalypse.

Visit The Museum Of Senses In Split

The Museum of Senses in Split is a museum dedicated to exploring our main senses – sight, hearing, smell, touch, and balance. Solve puzzles using your sense of smell! Use your fingertips to solve a mystery. Touch the light to create music! Learn more about Split, the ancient Mediterranean city. And, of course, take a bunch of awesome photos!

When you enter, forget everything you know about reality. Let yourself go and let us guide you through the zones dedicated to senses – sight, hearing, smell, touch, and balance.

The museum offers:

Mysterious Objects

Optical Illusions

Disco Galaxy

Funny Mirrors

Smell boxes

And much more.

Address Vukovarska ul. 207, Split

Palace Of Diocletian Split

Diocletian, probably a native of Salona, became emperor in 284. After governing for 20 years, he retired from public life and moved to this palace in the bay of Split. After his death in 316, the palace was used as administrative offices and the governor’s residence.

In 615, refugees from Salona found shelter here after the destruction of their city by the Avars.

David Mitchell

David Mitchell

David Mitchell is a British novelist and writer, known for his complex and ambitious literary works that explore themes of memory, identity, and the interconnectedness of all things. Mitchell's novels have won numerous awards and critical acclaim, and he is widely regarded as one of the most talented and innovative writers of his generation.

Born in Southport, England in 1969, Mitchell studied English literature at the University of Kent and later lived and taught in Japan for several years. It was during this time that he began writing his first novel, "Ghostwritten," which was published in 1999 to widespread critical acclaim. The novel is a complex and interconnected series of narratives that span the globe, exploring themes of identity, fate, and the nature of reality.

Mitchell followed up "Ghostwritten" with "number9dream" (2001), a surreal and experimental novel that follows a young man named Eiji Miyake as he searches for his estranged father in Tokyo. The novel won the John Llewellyn Rhys Prize and was shortlisted for the Booker Prize, establishing Mitchell as a major literary talent.

In 2004, Mitchell published "Cloud Atlas," his most ambitious and celebrated novel to date. The novel consists of six interrelated stories that span centuries and continents, exploring themes of reincarnation, power, and the cyclical nature of history. "Cloud Atlas" was a critical and commercial success, winning the British Book Awards Literary Fiction Award and being shortlisted for the Booker Prize.

Mitchell has continued to push the boundaries of literary form with his subsequent novels, including "Black Swan Green" (2006), a coming-of-age story set in the early 1980s, and "The Bone Clocks" (2014), a sprawling epic that combines elements of science fiction, fantasy, and realism. In 2019, Mitchell published "Utopia Avenue," a novel about a fictional band in 1960s London.

Mitchell's work is marked by its intricate plotting, complex narratives, and exploration of philosophical and metaphysical themes. His novels often feature interconnected characters and events, and he has been praised for his ability to weave together disparate elements into a cohesive whole. Mitchell's prose is lyrical and evocative, and he has a gift for creating vivid and memorable characters.

In addition to his novels, Mitchell has also written numerous short stories and essays and has been a vocal advocate for literature and the arts. He has been a judge for several literary prizes, including the Booker Prize, and has served as a mentor for emerging writers.

Overall, David Mitchell is a writer of immense talent and ambition, whose work challenges and inspires readers to think deeply about the nature of reality and the human experience. His novels are a testament to the power of imagination and the limitless possibilities of storytelling.

Discovering Dalmatia: Croatia's Coastal Gem

Dalmatia

If you're planning your trip to Croatia, you simply can't miss Dalmatia. This stunning coastal region is a true gem, boasting crystal-clear waters, ancient cities, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Here's everything you need to know about exploring Dalmatia.

The Cities of Dalamatia

Dalmatia is home to some of the most beautiful and historic cities in Croatia, including Split, Dubrovnik, and Zadar. Split, the region's largest city, is famous for its stunning Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 4th century. Dubrovnik, often called the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a walled city with picturesque streets and stunning views of the sea. Zadar, on the other hand, is a more laid-back city with a charming old town and a stunning seafront promenade.

The Dalmatian Islands

Dalmatia is also famous for its islands, which are some of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Hvar, Brac, and Korcula are among the most popular, each boasting crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and charming villages. Hvar is known for its vibrant nightlife, while Brac is famous for its stunning Zlatni Rat beach. Korcula, meanwhile, is said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo and is home to some of the best seafood in Croatia.

National Parks

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Dalmatia is also home to several stunning national parks, each offering a unique glimpse into Croatia's natural beauty. The Plitvice Lakes National Park, located in the northern part of Dalmatia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts 16 interconnected lakes and stunning waterfalls. The Krka National Park, on the other hand, is known for its cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools, which are perfect for swimming. Finally, the Kornati Islands National Park is a stunning archipelago of 89 islands, islets, and reefs, making it a paradise for sailors and boaters.

From its historic cities to its stunning islands and national parks, Dalmatia is a true gem that shouldn't be missed by anyone traveling to Croatia. Whether you're looking for culture, relaxation, or adventure, Dalmatia has it all. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover one of the most beautiful regions in Europe.

National Drinks and Beverages Croatia and Croatian Alcohol

A wide variety of locally made drinks is available throughout Croatia, from beers and wines to fiery fruit brandies, and Croatian alcohol is widely available. Croatian beer is usually of the Lager type but dark beers can also be found. Foreign brands brew in Croatia under license, and there are Irish pubs selling Guinness and other Irish beers.

Croatia’s vineyards yield all kinds of red and white wines, most of which are rarely seen outside the country. Spirits based on grapes are popular as apéritif and not as after-dinner drinks, as are other fruit brandies made from plumbs or pears.

Brandies flavored with herbs, walnuts, or even honey are also popular. Tap water is safe to drink but if the taste doesn’t appeal there’s a range of bottled mineral water.

Croatian Beer

A very popular drink served in cafès and pubs is beer (pivo), which is always served very cold. Most bottled beers are of the Lager type, but some darker beers are available. The most well-known brands of lager are Ožujsko, made in Zagreb, and Karlovačko (Karlovac). Another common brand is Pan. Well-known international beers such as Stella Artois are also widely available (some brewed under license in Croatia), but tend to be more expensive.

Ožujsko also brews an amber variety, which is very tasty on a warm summer evening.

Spirits from Croatia

A wide variety of spirits is available in Croatia, demonstrating the nation’s fondness for strong alcoholic drinks, in particular fruit-based eau-de-vie. One of the most popular spirits is a plum brandy originating in Slavonia called Šljivovica. It’s found all over the country. Loza is a grape-based eau-de-vie with a high alcohol content, and Travarica is a herb-based spirit. Vinjak is a brandy, Pelinkovac is a herb liqueur, and "Maraskino", is a liqueur from Zadar flavored with maraschino cherries.

Many spirits function as apéritif. A spirit called Bermet is from Samobor, near Zagreb, it’s made according to an ancient, well-guarded recipe. It’s drunk as an apéritif, served with ice and a slice of lemon.

Wines from Croatia

Croatia is a land of vineyards, with vines growing on the slopes of rolling hills inland and in pockets of stony soil on the coast and islands. Production varies in quantity and quality but standards are improving and there are some very decent wines around. From the Kvarner area come the white wine Žlahtina (from Vrbnik on Krk), red Cabernet (from Poreč), and Teran (from Buzet), a light red. Dalmatia is known for Pošip and Grk from Korčula (both white wines), Dingač (one of the best Croatian reds), and Postup from the Pelješac peninsula.

Plavac (red) comes from Brač and Malmsey from Dubrovnik. Finally, from Slavonia comes Kutjevačka, Graševina, Kutjevo Chardonnay and Riesling, and Krauthaker Graševina.

Carlos Ruiz Zafón: The Master of Gothic Fiction

Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Carlos Ruiz Zafón, a Spanish writer known for his dark and atmospheric novels, was born in Barcelona in 1964. His passion for literature started at a young age, and he wrote his first novel at the age of 12. However, it wasn't until his first novel, "The Shadow of the Wind," was published in 2001 that he gained international recognition.

Zafón's writing style is often described as gothic, with elements of mystery and suspense. His novels are set in Barcelona and often explore the city's dark history and secrets. He has been praised for his ability to create vivid and complex characters, as well as his attention to detail.

"The Shadow of the Wind," which has been translated into over 40 languages, is perhaps Zafón's most famous novel. It tells the story of a young boy named Daniel, who discovers a mysterious book in a hidden library called the Cemetery of Forgotten Books. As he delves into the book's history, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous and twisted plot.

Zafón's other works include "The Angel's Game," "The Prisoner of Heaven," and "The Labyrinth of the Spirits," which are all set in the same universe as "The Shadow of the Wind." He has also written young adult novels, including "Marina" and "The Prince of Mist."

Zafón's writing has been compared to that of Edgar Allan Poe and Jorge Luis Borges, and he has been called the "master of gothic fiction." His novels have won numerous awards, including the Edebé literary prize and the Barry Award for Best Novel.

Sadly, Zafón passed away in June 2020 at the age of 55. However, his legacy lives on through his unforgettable novels, which continue to captivate readers around the world.

Vasily Grossman

Vasily Grossman

Vasily Grossman was a Soviet writer and journalist who is best known for his novel "Life and Fate." This book was considered one of the most important works of literature to come out of World War II.

Grossman was born in Ukraine in 1905 and later moved to Moscow to study physics and mathematics. However, he soon found his passion for writing and began working as a journalist for several Soviet newspapers. He covered many important events, including the Battle of Stalingrad and the liberation of the Treblinka concentration camp.

His experiences during the war heavily influenced his writing, and he used his work to expose the atrocities committed by the Nazis and the Soviet government. "Life and Fate" were banned by the Soviet government, and Grossman faced persecution for his views. However, his work has since been recognized as an important contribution to the literary canon.

In addition to "Life and Fate," Grossman also wrote several other works, including "Forever Flowing" and "The Road." His writing was marked by its compassion, honesty, and insight into the human condition.

Overall, Vasily Grossman was a talented writer and journalist who used his work to shed light on the darkest parts of human history. His contributions to literature and journalism will continue to be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.

Chinaman: The Legend of Pradeep Mathew By Shehan Karunatilaka, A Book Review

Chinaman: The Legend of Pradeep Mathew is a masterpiece novel by Shehan Karunatilaka. It is a fascinating story of a retired sports journalist, W. G. Karunasena, who is on a mission to find out the greatest cricketer that Sri Lanka has ever produced, Pradeep Mathew, also known as "Chinaman". The novel is a blend of fiction and reality, where the author has brilliantly portrayed the life of a cricketer in Sri Lanka and the struggles that he faces to achieve success.

The novel takes the reader on a journey through the life of Pradeep Mathew, a cricketer who was never given the recognition that he deserved. W. G. Karunasena, the narrator of the story, is obsessed with finding out the truth about Pradeep Mathew, and his obsession takes him to various places in Sri Lanka, where he meets people who knew Mathew and who can provide him with information about his life.

The story is set against the backdrop of Sri Lanka's cricketing history, and the author has brilliantly weaved in the politics of the country, the civil war, and the struggles of the people of Sri Lanka. The author has also skillfully brought out the importance of cricket in the lives of the people of Sri Lanka and how it has become a way of life for them.

One of the most striking features of the novel is the writing style of the author. The author has used a unique narrative style, where the story is told through the eyes of W. G. Karunasena, who is a flawed character. The author has brilliantly portrayed the character of Karunasena, who is an alcoholic and has lost his job due to his addiction. The character is relatable and adds a human touch to the story.

The author has also used humor in the novel, which adds to the charm of the story. The humor is subtle, and it blends seamlessly with the story. The author has also used cricketing terms and anecdotes in the story, which will be appreciated by cricket lovers.

In conclusion, Chinaman: The Legend of Pradeep Mathew is a must-read for all cricket lovers and anyone who is interested in Sri Lanka's history and culture. The author has brilliantly portrayed the life of a cricketer and the struggles that he faces to achieve success. The writing style of the author is unique and adds to the charm of the story. Overall, it is a well-crafted novel that will keep the reader engaged till the very end.