Trogir Cathedral and Bell Tower, Trogir (must see)

The Trogir Cathedral, also known as Cathedral of St. Lawrence, stands as a remarkable testament to the architectural evolution that unfolded in Dalmatia over the centuries. This Roman Catholic triple-naved basilica, constructed in the Romanesque-Gothic style, is not merely a place of worship; it is a living chronicle of the artistic and cultural shifts that have shaped the region.

Its foundations rest upon the ruins of an Early Christian cathedral, which fell victim to the ravages of history during the 12th century sack of Trogir by the Saracens in 1123. The ambitious endeavor to build the new cathedral commenced in 1213, a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Trogir. This monumental construction project spanned several centuries, culminating in its completion during the 17th century.

Dedicated to St. Lawrence (Sveti Lovre), but commonly referred to as St. John's Cathedral (Sveti Ivan), it honors the memory of Bishop John, who distinguished himself through his saintly way of life during a challenging period when Hungary's King Koloman held sway over Dalmatia and Croatia.

The cathedral's bell tower is a magnificent structure in its own right, characterized by a multi-faceted architectural history. Work on this impressive tower began at the close of the 14th century but was not finalized until the late 16th century. Its multi-tiered design reveals the influence of various architectural styles and master craftsmen.

The first floor, executed by Masters Stejpan and Matej, showcases Gothic elements that exude timeless elegance. After suffering damage inflicted by the Venetians in 1420, it underwent restoration under the skilled hands of Matija Gojković. The second floor, reminiscent of the famed Venetian Palazzo Ca d'Oro, is a fine example of low Gothic architecture and is believed to be the work of Venetian artisans.

The final floor, a crowning achievement in the tower's history, was constructed by Trifun Bokanić. Atop the bell tower, one can admire four statues crafted by the Venetian sculptor Alessandro Vittoria, adding a touch of artistic grandeur to the structure. The cathedral's facade proudly displays the carved coat of arms of King Ludvic from the Angevin dynasty, a symbol of power and influence.

The Cathedral of St. Lawrence, with its bell tower, occupies a central place within the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the historic core of Trogir.