Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar

Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar is an atmospheric venue hidden in the labyrinth of ancient streets in the city of Split. Located within the walls of a 15th-century building, this bar represents a unique blend of a jazz club, a cozy library, and a historical monument. It is a place where drinking culture meets literary heritage, creating a unique experience for intellectuals and lovers of relaxed leisure.

The bar's special feature lies in its location: it is situated in the house where the famous poet Marko Marulić, considered the father of literature in Croatia, was born. The establishment's interior masterfully plays on this theme—stone walls are adorned with shelves of books, old photographs, and artifacts, while dim lighting creates a sense of intimacy and mystery.

This is not just a nightclub in the usual sense, but rather a cultural sanctuary. People come here not for loud parties, but for quality jazz, an excellent selection of wines and cocktails, and the opportunity to touch history in a relaxed setting. Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar is perfect for those seeking authenticity and soulfulness in the very heart of an ancient palace.

To check the schedule of live performances or book a table during the high season, we recommend using the official communication channels. Since the bar is located in the historic center, having the exact address will help you find it.

At "Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar," the main activity is savoring the moment surrounded by history. Visitors can settle at one of the cozy tables and immerse themselves in reading the books that are abundantly stocked on the venue's shelves. The literature collection here is available to guests, allowing you to combine a pleasant evening with intellectual leisure over a glass of local wine or a signature cocktail.

Special attention should be paid to the musical program. In the evenings, live jazz often plays here, creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere. The acoustics of the ancient stone walls give the music a special, soft sound. It is the ideal place to listen to talented local performers and relax after a long day of walking around the city.

Guests can also explore the interior itself. An attentive eye will notice original architectural details from the 15th century and even elements of Roman masonry. The bartenders will happily share the history of the building and help choose a drink to match your mood, whether it be craft beer, rakija, or exquisite whiskey.

The easiest way to get to "Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar" is on foot, as the venue is located in the very heart of the historic center, which is a pedestrian zone. Orient yourself towards the northern part of the palace complex: the bar is situated on the narrow Papalićeva Street, just a few steps from the Split City Museum.

If you are traveling by taxi or rental car, you will need to get out at one of the entrances to the Old Town, as vehicles are prohibited inside. It is most convenient to ask the driver to drop you off near the Golden Gate (Zlatna vrata). From there, you can walk to the bar in just 3–5 minutes by following the signs to the center.

For those using public transport, the nearest bus stops are at the Pazar market or near Josip Juraj Strossmayer Park. From either of these points, the walk to the bar will take no more than 10 minutes through picturesque alleyways.

The history of the building housing the bar dates back to the 15th century and is closely tied to the name of the prominent Croatian humanist and poet Marko Marulić. It is believed that this famous figure, often called the "father of Croatian literature," was born right here in the Papalić family palace. The bar's name itself—"Marvlvs"—is a reference to the Latin spelling of his surname.

The interior of the establishment carefully preserves the spirit of antiquity. Visitors can see authentic architectural elements from the Middle Ages and even antiquity, as the house was built on foundations and walls that were part of an ancient complex. Stone walls, wooden ceiling beams, and ancient masonry create a unique aura, transporting guests back to the Renaissance.

Interestingly, the "library" concept was not chosen by chance. The Papalić family was known for their patronage of the arts and collection of antiquities. Marko Marulić's friend, Dmine Papalić, gathered a collection of Roman monuments here, effectively establishing the city's first museum. The books on the shelves of the bar today serve as a tribute to this rich intellectual heritage.

To soak up the atmosphere of this place, an average visitor will need from 1 to 2 hours. This is enough time to leisurely drink a signature cocktail or a glass of wine, examine the interior details, and take a break from the hustle and bustle of tourist streets.

If you plan to visit the venue during a live jazz concert or a literary evening, it is worth setting aside the entire evening for your visit. The cozy setting encourages long conversations and slow enjoyment of the music, so guests often stay here longer than they originally planned.

Since opening hours may change depending on the season (tourist or low season), we strongly recommend checking up-to-date information on the venue's official page or social media before visiting.

As a rule, the bar opens its doors in the second half of the day and operates until late into the night, offering guests a cozy refuge for evening relaxation. In the summer period, the schedule may be extended to accommodate everyone wishing to enjoy jazz and the coolness of the ancient walls.

Exploring the surroundings of "Marvlvs" bar is a true journey through time that can significantly enrich your experience in the city. Since the venue is located inside ancient walls, monumental relics of the Roman era and masterpieces of medieval architecture await you literally just beyond the threshold.

You can combine evening jazz with a stroll through narrow stone streets, exploring key historical sites located just a few minutes' walk away. Here is a list of attractions worth visiting nearby: