Historic Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian

Historic Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian

The historic sites of Split and the Palace of Diocletian face the Mediterranean Sea and the Italian Peninsula. The historic sites of Split include a cathedral built in the Middle Ages, a Gothic palace from the 15th century, Romanesque churches from the 12th to 13th centuries, and monuments from the Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Split is situated in a bay on the Dalmatian coast and was established in the 3rd century AD. Historically, it served as an administrative and religious center. Split is a historic city of Yugoslavia, the country’s second-largest seaport, and a renowned destination for leisure and wellness. During the Roman era, the city was called “Aspalathos,” later renamed “Spalato” and then “Split.” The urban architecture of the city developed around the summer palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian.

The Palace of Diocletian was constructed in 305 AD, covering an area of 30,000 square meters. Its walls stand 17–21 meters high and are 2 meters thick. The six marble columns at the main entrance of the palace were transported from the Middle East across the seas, demonstrating the grandeur and complexity of the construction. A colonnade and its small arcades adorn the façade of this urban palace. Above them, a series of houses were relocated during the Venetian period. Within the defensive walls, streets connect with the remnants of Roman columns. The inner courtyard of the palace has been transformed into a public square, while the emperor’s mausoleum has become a cathedral. Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque monuments coexist harmoniously within this ancient architectural complex.

Historical Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian

Reason to visit: The most uniquely diverse architectural complex

Continent: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region: Croatia

Province/County: Split-Dalmatia County

City: Split