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The Grand Cipiko Palace is one of the most important architectural and historical monuments of Trogir. With its rich history dating back to the Middle Ages and its exceptional artistic value, it reflects the blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance influences that have shaped the city's appearance over the centuries.
The palace is named after the influential noble family Cipiko, which played a key role in the political and cultural life of Trogir. The most famous member of the family was Koriolan Cipiko, a humanist, military leader, and writer who was an important supporter of art and architecture. His role in transforming the palace into a Renaissance masterpiece was crucial, as he collaborated with some of the most renowned artists and architects of his time. The original design of the palace dates back to the Romanesque period when the basic structures were built. However, in the 15th century, the Cipiko family decided on a thorough renovation in line with the Renaissance trends of the time, giving the palace its distinctive appearance. The palace was created by connecting several Romanesque houses, which the Cipikos gradually joined into a single palace. Significant architectural changes took place around 1457 when the first Renaissance elements were added, and after 1474, Niccolò di Giovanni Fiorentino designed a beautiful courtyard with arcaded galleries. The palace façade is richly decorated with artistic details. The most prominent features include the Gothic triforium main window, the Renaissance portal, and the southern portal. The Gothic triforium main window was made by the famous sculptor and architect Andrija Aleši. This window is one of the finest examples of Venetian-Dalmatian Gothic in the region. The Renaissance portal, the work of the sculptor Giovanni Dalmatian, is known for his work in Dalmatia and Rome. His style combines classical Renaissance lines with rich decorative motifs.
The southern portal of the palace bears the famous Latin inscription "NOSCE TE IPSUM" – "Know thyself," symbolizing the Renaissance humanist ideal. This portal is also the work of Niccolò di Giovanni Fiorentino, one of the most important artists of the time on the Adriatic. At the height of its glory, the interior of the palace was richly decorated with artworks, tapestries, and furniture reflecting the status of the Cipiko noble family. It housed precious libraries, weapon collections, and artworks that Koriolan Cipiko brought back from his travels across Europe. According to some sources, the palace also contained a famous collection of ship models used in naval battles. Koriolan Cipiko was closely connected with the Venetian navy and participated in the famous naval battle against the Ottomans at Otranto in 1480. The Grand Cipiko Palace was not only the home of the noble family but also the center of cultural and political life in Trogir. Important meetings, trade discussions, and social events took place here. The Cipiko family was closely connected with the Venetian rulers, which allowed them to wield great influence in the city. In later centuries, the palace underwent several changes but retained its original character. Today, it is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Renaissance architecture in Dalmatia and is an important part of the cultural heritage of Trogir, which is under UNESCO protection. Today, the Cipiko Palace is one of the most visited attractions in Trogir. Its architecture and rich history attract many visitors who wish to explore the history of this Dalmatian gem.
Although the interior of the palace is not fully open to the public, it can be admired from the outside, especially the magnificent portal and triforium window, which testify to the mastery of medieval and Renaissance artists. The Grand Cipiko Palace remains a symbol of the wealth, art, and historical legacy of the Cipiko noble family, while also being a valuable part of the cultural heritage of Trogir and Dalmatia.