7 villages, each with an old settlement, fort or castle, authentic houses, a village centre with bars and restaurants and a beachfront! Ideal for exploring. Here, you are among the locals. From the late 15th to the 17th century, the nobility and clerics built forts and fortified villages between Split and Trogir to protect farmers and their land. The name Kaštela was derived from these forts – citadels. We give an overview of the 7 Kaštela villages from Split to Trogir.
1) Kaštel Sućurac – The archbishop’s palace
This old village centre is the best-preserved historical site in Kaštela.
Kaštel Sućurac is home to the oldest defensive fortress, built in 1392 by A. Gvaldo, the Archbishop of Split, to protect the local population.
2) Kaštel Gomilica – The fortress of Kaštilac
Benedictine nuns from Split completed the construction of a fortified settlement of Kaštilac on the islet of Gomilica in 1545. This location has made a impression on us because so much of the old fort is still standing, and the area is so unique.
3) Kaštel Kambelovac – The Cambi Tower
With its unique round tower, Cambi Castle was built by the Cambi family from Split. The castle was cylindrically shaped (the only one in Kaštela), making it easily defensible.
Only a tower and part of the entrance gate are still present, and you have to look for it among the houses. This village has a pleasant atmosphere and several beautiful pebble beaches with plenty of shade. We were here around noon and ate a seafood platter at Restoran Baletna škola; the restaurant is open all year and a favourite among the locals.
4) Kaštel Lukšić – The Vitturi family
There are some beautiful buildings here, such as the Vitturi Castle, which was built at the end of the 15th century by the Vitturi family; near the castle, there is also the Vitturi Park.
Across from the castle is an impressive church from the 18th century. Kaštel Lukšić is full of authentic houses, and during a short walk, we came across another small old church.
5) Kaštel Stari – All kinds of churches
The name means Old Castle. In this part of Kaštel Stari, churches play the main role. Among them is the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary. This is one of the largest churches in central Dalmatia and inside it looks very luxurious.
Kaštel Stari is close to Kaštel Novi, and you can easily walk from one Kaštela to another. A new promenade with a small marina has been built in Kaštel Stari. You can walk along the sea; the pebble beach Đardin is popular. In the centre, there is a daily market for fruit and vegetables, and you will find excellent restaurants such as Konoba Intrada.
6) Kaštel Novi – The Tower of Cippico
Kaštel Novi means new castle.
Here, you will find the Cippico tower from the 16th century. In the centre is the church of St Peter the Apostle. You can walk around the 16th-century old village centre, which still looks authentic.
7) Kaštel Štafilić – The old olive tree
This part of Kaštela is best known because the Split airport is here.
Kaštel Štafilić was already in use in the 16th century. You will find some lovely historical buildings here, including the Stafileo Citadel, the Ferro Tower, Brce Square and a church from the 18th century. At the very end of Kaštel Štafilić is the Lodi Tower. Just outside the centre is an olive tree over 1,500 years old.
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