Travel notes

Memories of the Trans Adriatic

Trans Adriatica is a road that crosses Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro on the Adriatic coast. A route painted with breathtaking landscapes and resorts from different periods of time.

Traveling from the north, Croatia, to the south, Montenegro, of all the settlements along the route, the most impressive for me were Split (Croatia), Dubrovnik (Croatia) and Budva (Montenegro).

SPLIT is known and visited for its Diocletian's Palace and its Cathedral with bell tower. Diocletian's Palace, built of white stone and marble mostly from the island of Brac, is a large building (160 m x 190 m) combining the luxury of the villas of the time with the utility of a military camp. The cathedral is composed of three parts, built in three different periods, the largest part being the Mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian (3rd century), the choir on the east side of the mausoleum (17th century), the bell tower in Romanesque style (1100). I find the promenade equally impressive, which since 2007 has a modern look, criticized by many. It is a place to relax and rest, where you can admire both the sea and the well-preserved buildings of Diocletian's Palace.

DUBROVNIK is, at first sight, a romantic little town, with its medieval fortress preserved in its entirety. The old town was built in the 13th century, entered through two massive gates, preserved to this day. Part of it was destroyed in 1991-1992 by Serb bombing, but later rebuilt. The Onofrio Fountain, built in 1438, is a Renaissance monument that survived the 1667 earthquake.

Today it is one of the most popular buildings in the old town.

The fortress with the Old Town is a romantic place, ideal for an evening stroll, a drop of music, traditional and modern dishes in a medieval setting.

BUDVA, with the origins of the old town unclear, with some speculation that it was originally an island that joined the mainland. Much of the architecture of the old town is in "Venetian" style. At night, this small Renaissance town becomes an open-air theater, with various bars and performances or rehearsals held in the streets. Mogren beach, Budva's most sought-after beach, is located next to the Old Town.

These three fortifications along with many others stood guard on the Adriatic coast, protecting peoples from enemies for many centuries. And now they protect the hearts and souls of tourists and locals, filling them with fun and good cheer.