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Diocletian's Palace: A Living Roman Masterpiece

Explore Diocletian's Palace in Split: a unique blend of ancient Roman history and vibrant modern life within a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Split, Croatia, is more than just ruins; it's a living, breathing part of the city. Built in the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD as Roman Emperor Diocletian's retirement residence, it now forms about half of Split's Old Town, with shops, restaurants, and apartments integrated into its ancient walls.

A brief summary to Diocletian's Palace

  • Split, Grad, 21000, HR

Local tips

  • Explore the Palace in the early morning to avoid crowds and experience its serene atmosphere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on cobblestone streets.
  • Visit the Cellars of Diocletian's Palace to see well-preserved Roman substructures.
  • Check for live performances or events in Peristyle Square.
  • Climb the bell tower of the Cathedral of Saint Domnius for panoramic views of Split.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Diocletian's Palace is centrally located in Split and easily accessible on foot from most points in the city center. From the Riva (waterfront promenade), enter through the Bronze Gate (also known as the Southern Gate). The palace is a short walk from popular landmarks such as the Gregory of Nin statue and Fruit Square.

  • Public Transport

    The main bus and train stations are located next to each other near the Riva, about a 10-minute walk to Diocletian's Palace. Many local bus lines stop near the Palace. From the main bus station, walk along the Riva and enter the Palace through the Bronze Gate. A single bus ticket costs around €1.40.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Split. A taxi ride from Split Airport to the Palace costs approximately €30-€35. However, vehicular traffic is restricted within the Palace walls. The best option is to get dropped off near the Riva and enter the Palace through one of the gates. A short taxi ride within the city center should cost around €5-€10.

  • Parking

    Parking is not possible within Diocletian's Palace itself. The closest parking options are Riva Parking, Train Station Parking Lot, and Stari Plac Parking Lot. Stari Plac Parking Lot offers a more affordable rate at €1.50 per hour. Be aware that these lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Parking further away from the city center, such as near Poljud Stadium or Marjan Hill, involves a 15-20 minute walk.

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Discover more about Diocletian's Palace

Diocletian's Palace, constructed between 295 and 305 AD, stands as one of the most well-preserved Roman palaces and a vibrant heart of Split, Croatia. Originally built for Emperor Diocletian's retirement, the complex served as both a luxurious residence and a military fortress. Diocletian, who hailed from Dalmatia, chose this location near his birthplace, Salona (modern Solin), to spend his post-imperial years. Encompassing 30,000 square meters, the palace is a blend of residential wings, temples, and a ceremonial court. Its imposing walls, reaching up to 20 meters in height, feature four main gates: the Golden Gate (north), Silver Gate (east), Iron Gate (west), and Bronze Gate (south). The palace's design reflects a transitional style, merging Greek and Byzantine influences. After Diocletian's death, the palace continued to be used by Roman emperors. In the 7th century, refugees from Salona sought shelter within its walls, transforming the palace into a city. Over centuries, the palace evolved organically, with homes and shops integrated into its structure. Today, Diocletian's Palace is a unique urban center, where ancient history intertwines with modern life. Visitors can explore the Peristyle, the central courtyard, wander through underground passageways, and marvel at the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, originally Diocletian's mausoleum. The palace has also served as a filming location for movies and TV series, including "Game of Thrones".

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