St. Lawrence Cathedral (Cathedral of St. Lovro)

St. Lawrence Cathedral (Cathedral of St. Lovro) is the architectural and spiritual heart of Trogir, Croatia, and a must-see for anyone exploring this UNESCO World Heritage town. Situated on the main square, the cathedral’s imposing façade and soaring bell tower dominate the skyline, reflecting centuries of history and artistry. Construction began around 1200 on the site of an ancient Greek temple and continued into the early 17th century, resulting in a harmonious blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.

Inside, visitors are greeted by a cool, vaulted interior, home to the tomb of St. John of Trogir, the city’s patron saint. The cathedral’s most famous feature is its intricately carved Romanesque portal, attributed to Master Radovan, which depicts biblical scenes and local folklore in remarkable detail. The bell tower, with its three distinct levels—Gothic, Venetian floral Gothic, and Renaissance—offers panoramic views of Trogir and the Adriatic for those willing to climb its steps. The top is crowned with sculptures by Venetian artist Alessandro Vittoria.

Despite suffering damage during a Venetian bombardment in 1420, the cathedral was carefully restored, preserving its unique character. While specific opening hours and admission fees are not detailed here, St. Lawrence Cathedral remains open to visitors and worshippers alike. A visit offers not only a journey through Trogir’s layered history but also a chance to appreciate one of Croatia’s finest examples of medieval architecture.