Culture, art & history trip
Come to Split and get to know the works of Ivan Meštrović, the most famous Croatian artist of the 20th century. An absolute must if you’re an art student or cultural history buff.
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Ivan Meštrović is the most famous Croatian artist of the 20th century. He was a sculptor, stonecutter, painter, architect, and writer, and lived in Vienna, Paris, Rome, Zagreb, Split, and the USA (whose citizenship he later obtained). He was a former chancellor of the Academy of Fine Arts in Zagreb and a member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters, and he left an immense artistic legacy to his native Croatia as well as to the city of Split. Meštrović derived his architectural inspiration from ancient central buildings, such as Diocletian’s Mausoleum.
For this trip, you will be staying in Split, Mediterranean city that was home to Ivan Meštrović most of his life
It was Split where the young Meštrović started his apprenticeship in a stonecutter’s workshop surrounded by inspiring and monumental buildings, such as Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the heart of the historic part of the town.
Split and its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was not the only architectural inspiration of the most powerful European artist in the first half of the 20th century. In the period between the two World Wars he was amazed by Michelangelo and made a vast number of stone reliefs. The most famous is a large statue of a Croatian bishop, Grgur Ninski. It is believed that touching its big toe will make your wish come true.
Visit the Meštrović Gallery, which used to be the sculptor’s residence, and which is located on the southern slopes of Marjan Hill. The gallery holds Meštrović’s masterpieces sculpted from marble, bronze and wood influenced by Impressionism, Art Nouveau and Art Deco, as well as his drawings.
The grand central hall on the ground floor of the Meštrović Gallery is intended for sculpture exhibitions, but at times it is also used for hosting cultural events, such as the performance of Puccini’s opera Turandot.
We will also take you to the Meštrović family crypt, colloquially known as the Meštrović Mausoleum, located on a hilltop in Otavice. The stones from the nearby mountain were used for its construction, and the crypt’s interior is adorned with stone reliefs depicting Biblical scenes.
During the period between two World Wars, Meštrović started making a number of stone reliefs, statues, and portraits drawing inspiration from Michelangelo. The most famous of those is the statue of Gregory of Nin, a medieval bishop of Nin, which was erected in 1929 in Split. The gilt bronze toe of the towering statue has been worn away by passers-by that believe that rubbing the toe will bring them good luck and make their wishes come true.
Arrive in Split and check into your hotel. Spend the day exploring the vibrant streets of this Mediterranean gem, known as the urban and cultural heart of Dalmatia. Wander through the breathtaking remains of Diocletian’s vast palace, a testament to ancient architecture. For a panoramic view of the city, head to Vidilica on Marjan Hill. This scenic overlook, accessible by steps from the shore, offers the most stunning vista of Split.
Garden view of the Meštrović Gallery, home to the artists' masterpieces sculpted from marble, bronze, and wood, as well as his drawings
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast, followed by a city tour featuring Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient cellars and the central court, Peristyle, at the heart of this historic marvel.
In the afternoon, visit the Meštrović Gallery, once the sculptor’s residence. Situated on the southern slopes of Marjan Hill, the gallery boasts a beautiful Mediterranean garden with sea views. Admire Meštrović’s masterpieces in marble, bronze, and wood, along with religious sculptures and works influenced by Impressionism, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco.
Continue to the Crikvine-Kaštilac complex to see the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which displays Meštrović’s wooden reliefs. Return to your hotel after a day filled with artistic inspiration.
The Meštrović family mausoleum, also made by Ivan Meštrović, will also be one of the stops at this tour
Enjoy breakfast before embarking on a half-day excursion to Otavice, the childhood home of Meštrović. Visit the Meštrović Mausoleum, perched on a hilltop and constructed with stones from nearby Svilaja Mountain. The interior, adorned with stone reliefs of Biblical scenes, is a tribute to the artist's craftsmanship.
Continue to the Stella Croatica complex near Klis to experience the authentic lifestyle of a traditional Dalmatian family. Explore the ethnographic village with its olive grove, ecological orchard, and aroma park. Indulge in an olive oil tasting and sample traditional local sweets. Return to your hotel enriched by the region's cultural and culinary heritage.
In Split, when you visit Meštrović's large statue of Grgur Ninski, a Croatian bishop, don't forget to rub its toe and make a wish - it's the tradition around here
After breakfast, check out of your hotel. If time permits, take a trip to the medieval town of Trogir, where you can see the statue of Petar Berislavić, sculpted by Ivan Meštrović. Alternatively, explore the picturesque farmer’s market in Split and enjoy a leisurely walk along the Riva, the city's vibrant main promenade. Relish your final moments in Split before continuing your journey.
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