If you are looking for a unique experience near Split that combines history, technology and interactive exploration, then Salona is a destination you should not miss. Once the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia and today one of the most important archaeological sites in Croatia, Salona now offers visitors a completely new way to explore the ancient city through augmented reality (AR).
Thanks to modern technology and digital reconstructions, visitors can now see what parts of Salona looked like nearly 2,000 years ago. Simply scan the QR codes placed throughout the site and the ancient city quite literally comes back to life before your eyes, with no app download required.
Augmented reality in Salona: where archaeology meets modern technology
The augmented reality project is being developed by the Archaeological Museum in Split with the goal of creating a modern and interactive visitor experience that brings cultural heritage closer to a wider audience.
By combining scientifically based reconstructions, digital technology and educational content, Salona becomes much more than an archaeological site. Visitors are not simply looking at ruins; they are given the opportunity to understand the space, its former monumentality and everyday life in the ancient city.
This experience is especially appealing to independent travellers, families with children, school groups and visitors seeking a more contemporary and engaging way to explore cultural heritage in Dalmatia.
Manastirine: the most important early Christian complex in Salona
At Manastirine, visitors can explore five AR points accessible through QR codes.
By scanning the codes, visitors can view digital reconstructions of the original appearance of the complex, discover its historical significance and learn fascinating details about early Christian Salona and the tomb of Saint Domnius, today the patron saint of Split.
Manastirine is considered one of the most important Early Christian archaeological sites in Croatia and the augmented reality experience allows visitors to better understand a space that today survives only in the form of archaeological remains.
This project is part of a broader initiative focused on the revitalisation, conservation and presentation of the site, as well as the continuous improvement of the overall visitor experience.
The Amphitheatre: Meet a Virtual Gladiator
At the Amphitheatre of Salona, visitors can access six QR points that reveal the original appearance of the amphitheatre and explain its historical context.
One of the most popular features, however, is the opportunity to take a photo with a virtual gladiator. This interactive element has quickly become one of the highlights of visiting Salona, especially among younger visitors and travellers looking for authentic and visually engaging content for social media. The combination of history, technology and entertainment has proven to be an excellent way of bringing cultural heritage closer to modern audiences.
Today, the amphitheatre is no longer just a reminder of ancient gladiatorial games, it has become a place where history comes alive once again.
From June 2026: Augmented Reality at the Episcopal Centre
Starting in June 2026, the augmented reality experience will expand to the Episcopal Centre of Salona, one of the most important areas of ancient and Early Christian Salona.
Visitors will be able to explore as many as 18 QR points featuring digital content and visual reconstructions, making the Episcopal Centre the most extensive AR experience within Salona.
This marks a significant step forward in the contemporary interpretation of cultural heritage in Croatia while further enriching Salona’s educational and tourism offer.
Why Visit Salona?
Today, Salona offers an experience rarely found at archaeological sites in the region, a unique combination of authentic ancient ruins, open Mediterranean landscapes, and innovative digital technology. Visitors can:
- explore an ancient Roman city through augmented reality
- view digital reconstructions of ancient buildings
- learn through interactive content
- take photos with a virtual gladiator
- experience cultural heritage in a completely new way
- discover one of Croatia’s most important archaeological sites just minutes from Split
Salona is where the past and the future meet, an experience designed not only for history lovers, but for everyone who wants to discover Dalmatia in a different and more meaningful way through the understanding of its cultural identity.