Travel bucket list idea:
Split, Dalmatia, Croatia
Facing Split’s seafront promenade, this vast 3rd-century palace – now integrated into the historic centre – was Roman emperor Diocletian’s retirement home. The emperor’s apartments overlooked the sea, while servants and soldiers occupied the rest of the complex, which centres on the Cathedral and Peristil, where Diocletian made public appearances.
Later on, medieval, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque buildings were erected within the white marble walls, and it became a city. Today, it’s a world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Split’s must-see attraction.
Located in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace, the Peristil – a magnificent arcaded square – was, and still is, Split’s main public meeting space. On the west side, the ancient Roman arches have been incorporated into a 15th-century palazzo, now the Luxor Café.
On the east side stands the octagonal Cathedral of St Domnius, originally built in the 3rd century as Diocletian’s mausoleum. The interior is round in plan, with eight columns supporting a domed roof.
The 60m-high bell tower was added in stages from the 12th century onwards – climb to the top for a dizzying bird’s-eye view over the old town.
Most visitors choose to explore Diocletian’s Palace independently, wandering the scattered ruins and adapted buildings of the original Roman structure and lingering longest at the Peristil and Cathedral. Better to book on a guided tour that can bring the place alive.
There is no ticket office or designated route; use the four main guard gates to get your bearings – Gold, Silver, Bronze and Iron. If you’re going it alone, the tourist office on the Peristil has free city plans, a must if you want to get to grips with the layout of Diocletian’s Palace and the old town.
As an integral part of Split’s historic centre, the Palace is accessible all year round.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
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