The Narrowest Church In Split

Tucked into a sentry’s walkway above the ‘Golden’ Gate to Diocletian’s palace, is an ancient church dedicated to Saint Martin, the patron saint of soldiers.  It is a replica of the 6th century original, with a beautifully carved pre Romanesque altar partition that has been in situ since the 11th century.

Narrow is the norm in the confined spaces of the ‘old’ towns of Dalmatia. But at 1.64m wide, this little church, considered “one of the best preserved sacral monuments of the ancient world”, is the narrowest in Split. And quite possibly in the entire region, if not the world.

Saint Martin's Church - Split, Croatia

Entrance is free and via a little stairway at the end of the street to your right as you enter the gate. The Benedictine nuns in charge, appreciate a token donation.

Happy travels……..no matter where life takes you!

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Madhu is an Interior designer turned travel blogger on a long sabbatical to explore the world. When not crafting stories on The Urge To Wander, she's probably Tweeting @theurgetowander or sharing special moments on instagram.com/theurgetowander

54 thoughts on “The Narrowest Church In Split

  1. I suppose this is the definition of “intimate” – and I doubt that any weddings will be held here any time soon! It is so strange to think of a replica that dates back to the 11th century; that just boggles the mind. Like Lex, I too love the warm glow of the natural light on the stone.

  2. How great, eh? Do you know if it was a secret place of worship at one point, or why was it built, in such a small place? No matter…still very cool. It reminds me of the narrowest house in Amsterdam, barely wider than the width of a door.

  3. Oh, isn’t this delightful? It’s like a private space 🙂 I’ve heard mixed stuff about Split, Madhu, but I’d like to see for myself. Hugs darlin! Take good care. 🙂

  4. What it lacks in width, it makes up for in light-filled height. Such a pretty, serene little place; I might even go to church there!

    1. It truly is a hidden gem Lex. We wouldn’t have known about it if it wasn’t for our walking tour guide.

  5. Lovely header pic! This church is even tinier than one I visited near the Crucifixion site of Lord Jesus in Jerusalem (not the Church of the Holy Sepulchre) Would love to pray here – it would seem like a very personal ‘my own’ church. Thank you, Madhu.

    1. I loved its simplicity too. Making a note of the tiny church in Jerusalem for a future visit. Thank YOU for reading Ashu!

    1. Absolutely Juliann. I much prefer this simplicity in religious spaces. Grand, glitzy interiors tend to distract 🙂

    1. You are right. Didn’t seem look like it could take more than half a dozen people at a time, ten at a stretch 🙂

  6. I really find this fascinating, a bit unbelievable but that is also what makes it so special. Wonderful portrayal of this with your words and capturing it so perfectly with your photos. Safe travels Madhu ~ wish you a great Sunday.

    1. Haven’t been regular around here, but couldn’t miss this one 🙂 Thanks Yvette…have a lovely weekend!

    1. It’s worth checking out if you have the time Natasha. Have fun in Split 🙂 Let me know if you need any suggestions.

    1. It’s a little gem Alison, disconnected from the bustle of the palace. We wouldn’t have known about it if it wasn’t for our walking tour guide from the day before.

Let me know what you think