Cathedral of St. James in Sibenik
The Cathedral of Saint James in Sibenik is a Gothic-Renaissance construction built entirely from stone. It was built in three phases, by three architects, between 1431 and 1535. Its style started out as Venetian Gothic, but was turned to Renaissance by the two latter architects (Georgius Mathei Dalmaticus and Niccolò di Giovanni Fiorentino). These were also responsible for the characteristic sculptures. Slabs of stone from the island of Brac were used, even for the dome where stone wedges held the tiles in place.
The cathedral suffered damage during both World War II and the fighting in 1991. The reconstructions that have been carried out since have been true to the original model and techniques.
Visit September 2008
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On a late Saturday afternoon I went by bus from Split to Sibenik, about 80 kms to the north. The public bus took us on a winding road along the coast line, passing several marinas. For me this was the first view of the non-touristy Croatia. It has a general Mediterranean feel about it, it could be anywhere between Spain and Greece.
At the outskirts of Sibenik we hit upon a traffic jam caused by horning and flag waving car drivers. At first I thought that people were celebrating because Croatia had won an important football match. But it turned out to be a loud and patriotic wedding - not the last I would see that Saturday.
The cathedral of Sibenik is located about 10 minutes on foot from the bus station, and can be seen from afar. You have to get up close to get the real "Wow!"-feeling though. All those fine little sculptures around the gates, facade and apse! No less than 74 small sculptured heads that represent eminent Sibenik citizens are the highlight of the exterior.
The interior of the cathedral is much darker and more sober. I didn't get the chance to explore the church well on the inside, because that would have meant that I had to push another bridal couple to the side. The cathedral of course is a prime wedding location: another couple and their guests were already waiting at the plaza next door for the next 'shift'. So I had to retreat again, and take the bus back to Split.
More photos can be found in the Picture Gallery
Reviews
Josip Zekiæ (Croatia):
Ufcorse I was it is unique masterpice or architecture...you must come and see, it is all of stone, no any cements.... |
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