Trogir, a charming port town on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, is rich in history and cultural heritage. Founded in the 3rd century BC by Greek colonists, Trogir developed over the centuries under the influence of the Romans and Venetians into an important commercial and cultural center.
The Old Town of Trogir, located on a small island and connected to the mainland by bridges, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. This recognition underlines the historical and architectural importance of the city, which has its roots in antiquity and experienced its heyday in the Middle Ages.
The old town of Trogir is a real magnet for tourists looking for authentic and historical experiences. In this open-air museum you can discover important buildings and picturesque squares.
Below we take a closer look at the sights of Trogir’s old town.
The Cathedral of St. Lawrence, also known as Sv. Lovre, is the most important building in the old town of Trogir and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent cathedral stands in the heart of the old town and attracts numerous visitors with its impressive architecture and historical significance.
The construction of St. Lawrence Cathedral spanned almost 370 years, from the early 13th to the late 16th century. Over the centuries, the cathedral was designed by various builders and artists, who brought their own style and techniques, making it a masterpiece of medieval architecture.
Of particular note is the imposing bell tower, added in the 14th century, which at 47 metres high offers spectacular views over the rooftops of Trogir. If you climb the tower, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views that include both the historic old town and the surrounding coastal landscape.
The Trogir Town Loggia is an important historical building that once served as a place for court proceedings and public meetings. It is one of the most striking Trogir Old Town attractions. This loggia, built in the 15th century, is an outstanding example of public architecture in Croatian old towns.
In the past, the city loggia was a central place for administration and justice, where important decisions were made and official announcements were made.
The bell tower of the Church of St. Sebastian is the only remaining part of this former church, which was built in the 14th century. The tower stands right next to the town loggia and together with it forms a picturesque ensemble in the heart of Trogir’s old town. The bell tower, which was completed in 1422, is an impressive example of medieval architecture and offers visitors an insight into the architectural techniques of that time.
Together, the town loggia and the bell tower of the Church of St. Sebastian form an important historical and architectural ensemble reflecting the rich history of Trogir.
Kamerlengo Fortress, an impressive 15th-century fortification, is a major landmark of Trogir. This historic fortress was built during Venetian rule and originally served as a defense against attacks from the sea. The fortress’s sturdy stone walls and towers are testament to the strategic importance Trogir had during that period.
St. Mark’s Tower, also dating from the 15th century, is an integral part of Trogir’s defense system. The tower complements the Kamerlengo Fortress and together with it forms a powerful defense line. Visitors have the opportunity to climb the tower and enjoy an excellent view of the city and the sea from the top.
Today, Kamerlengo Fortress and St. Mark’s Tower offer spectacular panoramic views of Trogir’s Old Town sights and the surrounding Adriatic Sea. Visitors can explore the fortress, climb the walls and enjoy the expansive views, which are especially impressive at sunset.
The Trogir City Museum (Muzej Grada Trogira) is located in the historic Garagnin-Fanfogna Palace. It offers a journey through the history of the city and displays an impressive collection of exhibits from different eras. The exhibits include artifacts from the Greek and Roman periods, including ancient coins, ceramics and sculptures.
The Garagnin-Fanfogna Palace, which houses the museum, is a remarkable example of Baroque architecture and itself contributes to the historical atmosphere. The palace dates back to the 18th century and impresses with its magnificent façade and ornate interior design.
At the City Museum you can not only admire the museum’s rich collection, but also experience the architectural beauty of the palace itself, making the visit a double pleasure.
Trogir’s waterfront, also known as Riva, is a lively and popular place that is perfect for relaxing strolls. This scenic promenade that runs along the water is lined with numerous cafes, restaurants and bars that offer visitors a variety of culinary delights and refreshments.
The Riva is a central meeting point in Trogir, where locals and tourists alike can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Here you can relax with a coffee or a glass of wine and enjoy the view of the crystal clear sea and the boats sailing by.
The promenade also offers numerous leisure opportunities: from here you can take boat trips to the nearby islands, and there are many opportunities for water sports such as sailing and kayaking. In the evenings, the Riva turns into a lively place where street artists perform and the city lights glitter in the water.
The Trogir waterfront is therefore not only a perfect place to relax, but also a starting point for numerous activities that enrich the experience of this historic city. Whether during the day in sunshine or in the evening in the romantic light, the Riva always offers an enchanting backdrop for unforgettable moments.
The Land Gate, known as Kopnena Vrata, is the main gate of the town of Trogir and dates back to the 15th century. Originally built as part of the defense system, the gate was redesigned in the Renaissance style and is now considered one of the most significant architectural features of the town.
It once served as the main entrance to the old town and is decorated with an imposing lion relief, the symbol of Venetian power.
The North Gate is a little smaller and less well-known than the Land Gate, but still offers a charming and cozy atmosphere. It is nestled in a lively environment, surrounded by cafes and restaurants that invite visitors to take a break. This gate is another entrance to the old town and today serves mainly as a popular meeting place for locals and tourists.
Both gates offer a fascinating insight into the historical defensive architecture of Trogir and are important parts of the city walls that once protected the city from attacks.
The Monastery and Church of St. Dominic, built in the 14th century, are significant historical buildings in the old town of Trogir. This religious ensemble has not only served as a spiritual center, but also has an interesting connection to modern pop culture, as it was used as a filming location for scenes from the popular TV series “Game of Thrones”.
The monastery and church of Saint Dominic are characterized by their Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Another highlight is the quiet monastery garden, which offers an oasis of peace and contemplation. Surrounded by a picturesque colonnade, the garden invites you to take a relaxing stroll and offers an insight into the monastic life of times gone by.
The monastery and church of St. Dominic together offer not only architectural beauty but also a peaceful retreat in the midst of the bustling old town of Trogir. The combination of historical significance and cultural relevance makes this place one of the most important Trogir old town attractions.
Trogir’s Old Town is a fascinating destination rich in history, culture and impressive architecture. Highlights include the magnificent Cathedral of St. Lawrence with its distinctive bell tower, the historic town loggia and bell tower of the Church of St. Sebastijana, as well as the mighty Kamerlengo Fortress and St. Mark’s Tower.
The Trogir City Museum offers valuable insights into the city’s past, while the waterfront promenade (Riva) invites you to relax and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. The city walls and gates, as well as the monastery and church of St. Dominic, complete the rich cultural heritage that Trogir has to offer.
Whether you want to admire the impressive buildings, enjoy the local specialties in the cozy restaurants or simply stroll through the picturesque alleys – the old town of Trogir and its sights offer an unforgettable experience for every visitor!
