The center of the city is surrounded by high walls.
The main church, surrounded by small cafes and people enjoying the early summer weather.
A restaurant makes clever use of the old steps, setting up a unique place to rest and eat.
The main church is one of the oldest I've ever been in (it's actually the oldest in the world! A point if you can guess what year it was originally built in - whoever is closest, no google!). The center of the church is not a rectangle or a T shape, as many others, but rather it's circular, and coated in gold!
Next up - climbing the tower of the church! The steps were high- each step was more or less a foot high, and highly uneven.
The views on the way up.
Halfway up, we notice this kiva-like structure on the adjoining building.
Climbing the tower! This tower was unique - we could easily see where we were going and outside for views!
View from the top!
We visited these little guys in their home.
Back on the ground, we discover the origin of the "kiva-like" structure.
City streets of Split.
I'm trying to think of the tipping point between building churches originally and then the architectural ability to have them stay upright until now: 500 AD?
ReplyDeleteI'll keep the poll open a few more days, but Shasta's pretty close. Hurry - there's a little bit of times to get your answers in!
ReplyDeleteGinny: 400AD? Sjaak: 600AD
ReplyDeleteThe first church and oldest is the Cathedral in Rome called Jesus the Savior or Divine Savior (something like that)Lateran and is also dedicated to St. John the Baptist as there is a chapel just for baptisms as hundreds were baptized there weekly . This which was built by Emperor Constantine when he converted to Christianity in the very early 300's. I know this as yesterday at Mass we celebrated the anniversary of the church and the homily was all about it. Before this the Christians were underground (Catacombs or used only house churches) So if this is the oldest in the world it has to be about the same time so I will say 300-320 A.D.
ReplyDeleteWell done everyone. The church was built in 305 AD so Mom - you are spot on. Shasta - your reasoning is also impeccable - so because of that (and because you were the first one to comment) I will also give you a point.
ReplyDelete(Shouldn't I get half a point more for being spot on?) You know me...very competitive
ReplyDelete