December 16, 2017: Exploring Split

The group from Qatar and Abu Dhabi were up early, due to the difference in time. 

Cal had a very bad night due to his cold, which also kept Rachel awake most of the night.

We ate breakfast at a lovely place on the seaside promenade in front of the Palace wall. There is a wide promenade between the Palace wall and the Split Harbor on the Adriatic Sea that is locally known as “Riva”. The Promenade is full of coffee bars, shops, and restaurant, with plenty of table seating.  We were thrilled the sun was shinning this morning, in comparison to the rain of yesterday and several downpours during the night.  The Adriatic Sea was very calm this morning, as there was barely a breeze.  

Walking Area in Front of the Palace

At this time of year, Advent, the Promenade is decorated for Christmas.  It also has an Advent market stretching almost the full length, plus a stage for Christmas celebration entertainment.    

After a relaxing breakfast, and an extra cup of coffee, our group split up – each doing our own thing.  Cherie and us, began a walking tour recommended in the Rick Steve’s Travel Guide. Cherie even climbed to the top of the Bell Tower where she had a 360-degree view of the Palace and city. Normally Cal would have joined her in this climb, but he was feeling tired. 

Cathedral Bell Tower

Octagon Cathedral

Bell Tower

Cathedral Alter

Singing Group Performing in the Palace

Treats for the Crowd

By noon we were at the Green Market, where you could buy all kinds of fruits, veggies, nuts, flowers, you could imagine.  Along the side, in permanent buildings, were butchers who could carve any cut of meat you desired, right off the hanging carcass.  We bought several things for lunch, and returned to the apartment, where Cal immediately laid down for a good nap.  After Cherie and I ate lunch, she went on a Guided tour of the Palace area with her friends.  Rachel also took a nap.  

Take your Pick - Fresh

At about 3:00 Cal & I were ready to continue exploring.  Within minutes of leaving the apartment we accidently meet up with Cherie and friends – quite amazing! In a city with all the Advent visitors, and a maze of streets, we find each other with no use of communication!  They were just finishing their Guided Tour. 

By now, another cup of coffee on the Promenade is in order! Around 3:30 the western sun was highlighting the Palace walls and all the buildings on the Promenade.  We walked to where we took beautiful photos along the Promenade, before climbing steps to an overview of the city.  It was a perfect time on a sunny evening, as within 5 minutes of our arrival at the overview, the sun too low to shine on the city. However, the setting sun was not impressive tonight.

Croatia - Origin of the Neck Tie

View from Above

On our return walk to the apartment, we passed through a park with lovely Christmas decorations. Most of the Squares in the city are decorated for Christmas.  It is a lovely time of the year!  Back at the apartment, after snacks and beverages, Cal decided to stay at the apartment while the rest of us went to dinner at a nearby restaurant.  

It was a lovely day, exploring Split and learning the history of the Palace area.