「Historic City of Trogir」 Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage Site with Stunning Medieval Streets

Trogir is a small port town on Croatia’s Adriatic coast, famed for its beautiful seascapes and historic architecture. The medieval Old Town occupies a tiny island—connected by bridges to the mainland and to the neighboring island of Čiovo—so you can literally step back into medieval Europe the moment you arrive.

Wandering its narrow, stone‑paved lanes, you’ll feel as though you’ve slipped through time. You can simply stroll and soak up the atmosphere, or study each World Heritage‑listed building in detail. Read on for an overview of Trogir and three must‑see highlights.

What Is Trogir?

Trogir’s Old Town—inscribed on the UNESCO list in 1997—is set on a tiny island separated from the mainland by a man‑made canal originally built for defense in the Middle Ages. You reach it via one of several low stone bridges.

Within the old city walls lies a perfectly preserved medieval townscape: churches, a clock tower, a city hall, all packed into a compact area. Influences of ancient Greek and Roman culture blend with Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture, making Trogir a hugely popular day‑trip destination from nearby Split.

Getting There

There are no direct flights from Japan to Croatia. Most visitors connect via a major European hub—Paris, Frankfurt, etc.—and on to Split Airport (SPU). From Split Airport, Trogir is just a 15‑minute drive; regular shuttle buses and taxis also serve the route.

If you’re already in Split city center, buses run from the main long‑distance station (about 30 minutes to Trogir) and from the Old Town’s north bus terminal (about 45 minutes).

Highlight ① of the Historic City of Trogir: Cathedral of St. Lawrence

Dominating Trogir’s skyline is the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, a Romanesque–Gothic masterpiece built between the 13th and 17th centuries.

Its most celebrated feature is the Radovan’s Portal—an intricately carved Romanesque doorway by the local sculptor Radovan. The portal’s reliefs depict scenes from Christ’s life, while Adam and Eve ride lions above the lintel.

Inside, the cathedral treasury showcases priceless religious art. You can also climb the 47 m bell tower for 360° views over Trogir’s red‑tiled roofs and out across the Adriatic.

Highlight ② of the Historic City of Trogir: Ivan Pavao II Square

On the eastern side of the island lies Ivan Pavao II Square, framed by the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, the Town Hall, and the Clock Tower. With so many UNESCO‑listed buildings clustered around it, the square makes an ideal base for exploring. It’s always bustling with visitors.

Despite the crowds, the square retains a relaxed atmosphere where you can see locals enjoying a leisurely break. Cafés line the perimeter—perfect for a long coffee or tea. If you’re lucky, you might even hear live music drifting across the plaza. Take your time here and soak up the enchanting medieval streetscape.

Highlight ③ of the Historic City of Trogir: Kamerlengo Fortress

Perched on the island’s northwest edge is the striking Kamerlengo Fortress, erected during the 15th‑century Venetian dominion. In contrast to Trogir’s ornate medieval churches and palaces, its exterior is purposefully austere—an unmistakable testament to its defensive role.

From the top of its battlements you enjoy a sweeping panorama of the UNESCO‑listed Old Town and the shimmering Adriatic Sea. The view is spectacular by day, but visiting at sunset transforms the scene into something truly magical. Since this vantage point differs completely from the one atop St. Lawrence’s bell tower on the island’s east side, be sure to take in both perspectives!

◎ Summary

Trogir packs medieval charm, Adriatic beauty, and UNESCO‑protected heritage into a wonderfully compact package. Whether you wander its cobbled lanes, marvel at Radovan’s Portal, sip espresso in Ivan Paolo II Square, or watch the sun dip behind Kamerlengo Fortress, you’ll discover why Trogir is hailed as one of Croatia’s most enchanting towns. Enjoy your time in this fairytale island city!

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「Historic City of Trogir」 Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage Site with Stunning Medieval Streets