The Olympians, Split, Visitor Guide & Things to Do Nearby

The Olympians is a row of plaques along the waterfront promenade on Obala kneza Branimira in Split, Croatia, honouring athletes from the city who have won Olympic medals. It works as a small walk of fame for a place whose sporting record is far bigger than its size suggests.

The story behind it

Split is the second largest city in Croatia, yet it has produced a long line of Olympic medallists. The plaques celebrate athletes who were either born in Split or won their medals while living and competing for Split clubs, so the promenade doubles as a record of the city's sporting life.

One name stands out for many locals: swimmer Đurđica Bjedov, who won gold in the 100 m breaststroke at the 1968 Games in Mexico City. Her victory is still remembered in Split as one of the great moments in the city's sporting history.

What to look for

• The individual plaques set along the promenade, each marking an Olympic athlete linked to Split.
• The range of sports on show, which makes it clear how many different disciplines Split athletes have excelled in.
• The name of Đurđica Bjedov, the swimmer who took Olympic gold in the 100 m breaststroke.
• The setting itself, a seaside walkway where locals stroll, with the harbour beside you.

Tips for your visit

• Allow about 10 to 15 minutes if you want to read the names and look at the plaques without rushing.
• It is an open-air stretch of waterfront, so you can see it at any time, but daylight makes the plaques easier to read.
• Early morning or evening is the most pleasant time for a stroll, especially in summer when the middle of the day is hot.
• It sits within easy walking distance of the old town, so pair it with a wander through the centre and along the harbour.

See it on a quest

The Olympians is one stop on Landmarks of Split: Discover the 1700 Year Old City. You reach it on foot as part of a longer route through the city, the app tells you about each place as you arrive, and you solve a puzzle based on what is in front of you. It is a paid quest, and one ticket covers the whole group. Playing it lets you start whenever you like, with no guide and no group to join.