Sarcophagus Collection

Overview

Nestled within the venerable walls of the Split Archaeological Museum, the Sarcophagus Collection offers a profound journey into the ancient past of Dalmatia. As Croatia's oldest museum, established in 1820, this institution is a guardian of some 150,000 artifacts, with its sarcophagi standing out as particularly evocative testaments to life, death, and belief in Roman and early Christian times. Most of these monumental stone coffins originate from the nearby ancient city of Salona, once a bustling Roman provincial capital. Walking among these intricately carved relics allows visitors to connect directly with the people who once inhabited this vibrant region, offering insights into their societal structures, artistic expression, and spiritual world.

History & Cultural Background

The majority of the sarcophagi in the collection were unearthed from Salona, a mere few kilometers from modern-day Split. Salona flourished as a significant Roman city, serving as the capital of the province of Dalmatia, and was a melting pot of cultures. Roman tradition dictated that the dead were to be buried outside the city walls, leading to the development of extensive necropolises around Salona. Sites like Manastirine became particularly important burial grounds, hosting both pagan and early Christian interments. The sarcophagi date primarily from the Roman Provincial and Early Christian eras, reflecting a fascinating transition in religious iconography and burial practices. Early sarcophagi often feature mythological scenes, a popular theme in Roman funerary art, while later examples incorporate nascent Christian symbols. This collection thus serves as a tangible timeline, illustrating the evolving spiritual landscape of Dalmatia as it transitioned from paganism to Christianity.

What Makes It Special

The Sarcophagus Collection is renowned for the artistic quality and historical significance of its pieces. Among the most striking is the 'Sarcophagus with the scene of the Calydonian boar hunt', an Attic sarcophagus crafted from Pentelic marble around 240-250 AD. Its dynamic relief carving depicts a dramatic mythological narrative. Another highlight is the 'Good Shepherd Sarcophagus', dating to the early 4th century. This piece is particularly significant as it features an allegorical depiction of Jesus Christ, representing a pivotal moment in the rise of Christian art. The collection also includes the 'Sarcophagus with the scene of the Israelites crossing the Red Sea', a later 4th-century work that once held the relics of St. Felix, adding a layer of sacred history. These sarcophagi, often displayed in the museum's serene lapidarium, showcase the intricate craftsmanship of ancient sculptors and offer a unique glimpse into the beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife in the Roman world.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Beyond their artistic merit, many sarcophagi carry compelling stories. For instance, the 'Sarcophagus with the scene of the Calydonian boar hunt' was once mistakenly believed to be the resting place of Emperor Diocletian. This fascinating misconception arose because of an inscription bearing the name 'Prisca', Diocletian's wife, and a prophecy linking him to a boar hunt. Although Diocletian was ultimately interred in a porphyry sarcophagus in his mausoleum (today's Cathedral of St. Domnius), this tale underscores the enduring historical intrigue surrounding these artifacts. Another poignant detail is a 3rd-century CE mosaic-topped sarcophagus belonging to a nine-year-old child named Titus Aurelius Aurelianus, an exceptionally rare example of classical-era mosaic sarcophagi. Such personal artifacts humanize the ancient world, allowing visitors to ponder the lives of individuals, from emperors to ordinary citizens, and the universal experience of loss. The existence of numerous sarcophagi in Salona's necropolises, like Manastirine, some broken and looted during the city's downfall, speaks to the turbulent history of the region and the challenges of preserving heritage through centuries of change.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting the Sarcophagus Collection at the Split Archaeological Museum is an immersive experience. Housed partly in the museum's elegant outdoor lapidarium and courtyards, these magnificent stone monuments are often bathed in natural light, allowing for a close appreciation of their sculptural details. The sheer scale and artistry of these ancient burial monuments provide a contemplative atmosphere, encouraging reflection on the passage of time and the legacy of civilizations past. The bilingual labels accompanying the exhibits provide valuable context, making the intricate details of Roman life and death accessible to all. It's an opportunity not just to see ancient objects, but to understand the customs, myths, and aspirations of people who lived thousands of years ago in what was once the heart of Roman Dalmatia. This collection is a profound reminder of the region's rich archaeological heritage and its deep connections to the broader Roman world.