Split
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Better coined as an entire “complex” rather than just a palace, Diocletian’s Palace is the most important historical landmark in all of Split. Combining history and modernity, its Peristyle, or central open space, is surrounded by a colonnade that includes six large columns on each side; bronze, gold, silver, and iron gates; and a majestic arch, adorned in garlands, at its entrance. Its walls enclose lines of shops and bars inviting visitors to take in its charming history; a symbol of Croatia’s diverse and ancient culture. Make sure you visit this landmark on your Split yacht charter.

Originally built as a mausoleum for the Roman emperor, Diocletian, this site was later turned into a cathedral by inhabitants of nearby Salona who fled to Split in the 7th century, after their village was attacked. Standing tall just east of Peristyle, this cathedral, which is uniquely shaped like an octagon, holds a series of ancient monuments; including undeniable scenes of Christ’s life, carved by Andrija Buvina in the 13th century and resting on the cathedral’s large wooden entrance doors. Before that, the cathedral was actually erected to hold the bones of Bishop Domnius, whose execution had been ordered by Diocletian himself.

Designed by Ivan Mestrovic, a famous Croatian sculpture artist, the statue of Gregory of Nin – or to the locals, “Grgur Ninski” – pays homage to the 10th-century bishop for whom it was named; a man who fought for the right to use old Croatian in religious services. As one of the city’s most popular landmarks, the big toe of the statue is believed to bring good luck to all who rub it, ultimately guaranteeing that tourists later return to Split. It won’t take much to convince visitors that this belief rings true; if they look closely, they’ll see the toe is shiny gold, after the millions who have already rubbed it.