Diocletian's Palace: A Living Roman Masterpiece
Explore Split's ancient Roman heart: Diocletian's Palace, a living UNESCO World Heritage site blending history and modern life.
Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, stands as one of the most well-preserved Roman structures in the world. Constructed between 295 and 305 AD by Emperor Diocletian as his retirement residence, this impressive complex evolved into the heart of Split, Croatia. Diocletian, born near Split, chose this location to spend his retirement after voluntarily abdicating the throne, a rarity for Roman emperors. Originally designed as a blend of a luxurious villa and a military fortress, the palace complex spans 30,000 square meters. High walls, reaching up to 20 meters, enclose four main gates: the Golden Gate (north), Silver Gate (east), Iron Gate (west), and Bronze Gate (south). The southern facade once rose directly from the sea, allowing the Emperor to enter by ship. Inside the palace walls, discover significant architectural elements. The Peristyle, the central courtyard, once served as a ceremonial space and now hosts gatherings and performances. The Temple of Jupiter, later transformed into a baptistery, showcases Roman craftsmanship. Diocletian's mausoleum became the Cathedral of Saint Domnius in the 7th century, making it one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. Today, Diocletian's Palace forms about half of Split's Old Town. With thousands of residents, the palace is a unique blend of ancient history and modern life. Wander through its narrow streets, explore shops and restaurants, and admire the seamless integration of Roman architecture into the urban fabric.
Local tips
- Explore the Palace cellars for a glimpse into the original Roman construction and a unique perspective on the structure.
- Visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, originally Diocletian's mausoleum, for a journey through religious and architectural history.
- Walk the Riva, Split's waterfront promenade, for stunning views of the Palace's southern facade and the Adriatic Sea.
- Get lost in the narrow streets and discover hidden shops, cafes, and restaurants integrated within the ancient walls.
- Visit the Golden Gate, the grand northern entrance, and imagine Emperor Diocletian's arrival.
A brief summary to Diocletian's Palace
- Split, Grad, 21000, HR
Getting There
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Walking
From the Riva (waterfront promenade), enter the Palace through the Bronze Gate (also known as the Southern Gate). This gate leads directly into the Palace cellars, offering immediate access to the heart of Diocletian's residence. Walking is free and the most immersive way to experience the Palace.
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Public Transport
From Split's main bus or train station (located next to each other), Diocletian's Palace is a short walk. Alternatively, take bus line 9 from the station to Tržnica (Pazar). From there, it's a brief walk to the Silver Gate, one of the main entrances on the eastern side of the Palace. A single bus fare costs approximately €1 - €2.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Split. A short taxi ride from the main bus or train station to Diocletian's Palace typically costs between €5 and €10, depending on traffic and the specific drop-off location near the Palace.
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Parking
Note that Diocletian's Palace is located in a pedestrian zone with very limited parking. If driving, the closest parking options are Riva Parking, Train Station Parking Lot, and Stari Plac Parking Lot. Stari Plac is the most affordable, at approximately €1.50 per hour. Riva Parking, closest to the Palace, is more expensive at €4 per hour. Be aware that these lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
