A postcard from Split: Roman legionaries
Greetings from Split
The historic heart of Split is built on and around the ruins of Diocletian’s Palace, the residence and military garrison of the 3rd century Roman emperor. Its remains can be spotted in the foundations of Renaissance palaces, in passageways and side streets, and in a few extant buildings such as the Baptistry which was formerly the Roman Temple of Jupiter. In the small square opposite the cathedral we came across two ‘Roman legionaries’ posing with tourists. Staging such photos doesn’t really appeal to me, but I enjoyed trying to grab a few candid shots, of which this was the most successful.
39 Comments
Dalmatian Insider
I love Split. Its Roman ruins have held up remarkably well compared to other places, including Rome. Of course the city has become much more crowded with tourists over the past decade and a half… hence the goofy Roman legionnaires. But I guess it is all in good fun!
Sarah Wilkie
I loved it too. Yes, it was crowded in places but we also found quite quiet corners even during the day. And at night when the cruise passengers return to their ships it was much more peaceful 🙂
equinoxio21
Split now? I had a senior high school friend who was from Split. Now I “know” two people who’ve been to Split… 😉
Sarah Wilkie
I loved the city and would happily go back some time 🙂
wetanddustyroads
I look forward to your photos of Split. My brother and his wife went on a world tour in 2000 and according to them, Split was the most beautiful place they saw on their trip! You’re right, this guy definitely enjoys the opportunity to pose for photos (or maybe he enjoys the attention 😀).
Sarah Wilkie
I did really like Split and will certainly share more photos in due course, although I don’t think I would say it’s the most beautiful place I’ve seen (I don’t where I would pick for that!)
Annie Berger
Nice they didn’t charge for the photo op. Looking forward to reading about your brief getaway to Split.
Annie
Sarah Wilkie
Thanks Annie 🙂 I have to admit though that a couple of days after taking this photo my friends and I decided a posed shot might be fun and were surprised to be asked afterwards for a donation!
Annie Berger
A little cheeky, don’t you think, to be asked for a donation after the fact?!
Sarah Wilkie
Yes, I felt so!
Ju-Lyn
What fun! Can’t wait to see the rest of your captures from your trip.
Sarah Wilkie
Yes, they were fun, loads of people were enjoying posing with them!
Alison
It’s still on my list
Alison
We never got as far as Split only Dubrovnik, no I’m not keen on staged performances either.
Sarah Wilkie
I really liked Split – definitely recommended if you find yourselves in the region again!
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Tanja
Enjoy it
Tanja
When did you visit Split?The city is stunning in off season. Too many ppl in summer
Sarah Wilkie
I’m there at the moment – hence ‘sending a postcard’ 😀 Already very crowded during the day (tour groups and cruises passengers) but only pleasantly busy at night.
Marie
A lovely place – especially as you say, at night. Enjoy your travels. This must be a lovely time of year there – we’ve been to Croatia twice – both times in August so you can just imagine….
Sarah Wilkie
I wouldn’t fancy it in August – too hot as well as too crowded! It’s pretty busy even now.
Sue
Very successful, I would say!
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you Sue 😊
bushboy
I really enjoyed my time in Split. The basement/underground market was different
Sarah Wilkie
Yes, it’s an intriguing city!
thehungrytravellers.blog
Split is great, isn’t it. I think I probably know exactly where you took that photograph!
Sarah Wilkie
Yes, Split is lovely, especially at night when the cruise passengers are back on their ships! The backdrop to this shot is the cathedral.
Alli Templeton
He really looks the part, Sarah! And in that authentic setting too. Must have been a fantastic atmosphere. 🙂
Sarah Wilkie
He looks the part for sure, but surrounded by walking tour groups, so the setting less so!
Alli Templeton
Ah, yes, I can see that would somewhat lessen the effect!
restlessjo
He looks happy in his work!
Sarah Wilkie
I think so, yes 😃
restlessjo
I’d trade places but the outfit wouldn’t suit me. Have a great time, Sarah!
Sarah Wilkie
Split has been great – off to Kotor tomorrow!
grandmisadventures
Great picture! Not only were legionaires excellent soliders but they had great style too 🙂
Josam Mararo
Great
Sarah Wilkie
Thanks!
margaret21
Well done! This looks suitably authentic.
Sarah Wilkie
They do – and apparently don’t charge for the photo opps, as I at first assumed they would!