Following the Steps of Emperor Diocletian Meet Today’s Split

Roman Emperor Found the Ideal Place on the Adriatic

More than 1700 years ago, at the end of the 3rd century AD, the Roman Emperor was soon to be retired. He decided to spend his last and best days on the Adriatic Coast, in Split. Perfect location, set right on the sea, an ideal climate, and good wines from nearby fields were just part of what had attracted the Emperor to choose this spot on the Mediterranean to enjoy and relax.

Impressive and Monumental Example of Roman Architecture

The construction of the original Diocletian’s Palace lasted ten years, from 295 AD to 305 AD. The Palace was built in an irregular rectangular structure. It was a mix of the summer house, military camp, and fortified fortress.

Photo: Reconstruction of Diocletian’s Palace

Diocletian's Palace represents a complex of residences, churches, squares, and narrow streets. They're all rounded by big walls with observing towers for protection from enemies. Overall, it covers an area of 38,700 square meters.

This fortified palace had four main entrances, in the middle of the walls on each side.Entrances got names by the metals from which they were made. Golden (north), Silver (east), Bronze (west), and Iron (south) Gate.

Two main streets connect the gates. Peristil Square is at a crossroads. It's the main square of Split. Imperial residence and temples were in the southern part, and northern was for servants and soldiers, who lived and worked here.

Photo: Diocletian’s Palace from the sky

During history, the outside appearance of the walls and the inside look of the palace changed, but a lot of the original is saved. Since 1979 the Diocletian’s Palace has been on the list of World Cultural Heritage under UNESCO protection.

Every footstep in Diocletian’s Palace provides a bit of history. You can even see a 4000-year-old Sphinx from Egypt that Diocletian had received as a gift.

The Living Heart of the Modern City of Split

Today, Diocletian’s Palace is a vibrant and vivid place where life is going on. Some residences are turned into luxury villas, hotels, and apartments. Furthermore, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops open. You can even find a modern equipped cinema inside the walls!

Fun Fact #1: The Oldest Historical Inhabited Monument in the Whole World

One of the most interesting things about the Diocletian’s Palace is that local people actually live there. It is home to about 3000 locals.

While wandering the streets of Diocletian’s Palace, you will probably be surprised how local people live relaxed lives. They don’t show any sign of feeling disturbed by crowds of tourists passing literally by their home entrance.

If you look up, you will probably see clothes drying in the air on ropes stretched between opposite windows.

Fun Fact #2: Relatives by Stone

Diocletian’s Palace is made of limestone and marble. The stone was mostly excavated from the nearby island of Brač. Some of the world's most famous buildings were also made of stone from the Brač Island.

The White House in Washington D.C, the Parliament House in Vienna, and the Parliament House in Budapest are some of these relatives by stone with Diocletian’s Palace.

Fun Fact #3: Game of Thrones Filming Points in Split Center

Many scenes from the world-popular Game of Thrones were filmed in Croatia. The dragon scene was filmed in the lower chambers of Diocletian's Palace!

Split State of Mind

The Emperor is gone long ago. Yet, the Roman spirit stayed in the stone walls, numerous ornaments, and what is most important in the state of mind of the people of Split.

Diocletian intended to relax, enjoy, and spend the best days here.

Along with historical heritage, Diocletian also left the spiritual heritage of people who settled down in Split. The city of Split and the people of Split today are known for a relaxed lifestyle.

In Split, you often hear "Take it easy", "Festina Lente", or “Pomalo!” This lifestyle philosophy means that no matter how much obligations or stress you have during the day or what happens, you need to find time for relaxation, a cup of coffee with your dear person, sitting in the sun or just contemplating with yourself. What comes around, goes around. Appreciate each day of your life and take care of your body, mind, and soul. There is no better place in the world than Split City!

Perfect location on the Adriatic Coast more than 1700 years ago attracted the famous Roman Emperor Diocletian. He built his residence, known as Diocletian’s Palace. Today, Diocletian’s Palace is the center of the modern city Split which developed around it. This is the must-visit place in Central Dalmatia for all history lovers and hedonists.

The city attracts many travelers seeking enjoyment and relaxation. Like the Emperor, some choose to unwind in the complete luxury ofvillas in Splitand its vicinity.

Have you ever visited Split for the holidays? If yes, please share with us what you liked most about the city of Split!