Sphinx
The Sphinx of Split
Jupiter's Temple: A Roman Echo in Split
Explore Jupiter's Temple in Split: A journey through Roman history and religious transformation within Diocletian's Palace.
Nestled within Diocletian's Palace in Split, Croatia, Jupiter's Temple is a remarkably preserved Roman temple dating back to the 3rd century AD. Once dedicated to the Roman god Jupiter, it later transformed into a Christian baptistery. The temple showcases Roman architecture and intricate carvings, offering a glimpse into Split's rich history.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Jupiter's Temple
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Ul. Kraj Svetog Ivana 2, Split, 21000, HR
Monday
8 am-4 pm
Tuesday
8 am-4 pm
Wednesday
8 am-4 pm
Thursday
8 am-4 pm
Friday
8 am-4 pm
Saturday
8 am-4 pm
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Getting There
Walking
Jupiter's Temple is located within Diocletian's Palace, in the center of Split. From the Riva promenade, enter the palace through the Bronze Gate. Walk straight through the cellars, and emerge into the Peristyle. The Temple is located to the west of the Peristyle. Entrance fee is approximately 2 EUR.
Public Transport
From the main bus or train station in Split, walk west along Obala kneza Branimira. Turn left onto Ul. bana Josipa Jelačića, then turn right onto Poljana kneza Trpimira. Turn left to stay on Poljana kneza Trpimira. Continue onto Ul. Hrvoja Vukčića Hrvatinića. Turn right onto Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda. Enter Diocletian's Palace through the Bronze Gate. Walk straight through the cellars and emerge into the Peristyle. The Temple is located to the west of the Peristyle. Public transport tickets cost approximately 1.5 EUR.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
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Purchase a combination ticket for access to the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and other sites within Diocletian's Palace to save money.
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Take a guided tour to learn more about the temple's history and significance within Diocletian's Palace.
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Note that the temple is not wheelchair accessible due to stairs at the entrance.
Discover more about Jupiter's Temple
Jupiter's Temple, located in the western section of Diocletian's Palace, stands as a testament to Split's layered past. Constructed between 295 and 305 AD, during the reign of Emperor Diocletian, the temple was dedicated to Jupiter, the supreme Roman god and Diocletian's patron deity. The temple's architecture reflects traditional Roman design, featuring a rectangular layout and a portico supported by columns. The facade boasts intricate carvings depicting scenes from Roman mythology.Over the centuries, the temple has undergone several transformations. With the spread of Christianity, it was converted into a baptistery dedicated to St. John the Baptist. Today, visitors can explore the temple's interior, where a baptismal font from the 13th century resides. One of the temple's unique features is a headless sphinx, brought from Egypt by Emperor Diocletian, which stands guard at the entrance.The temple's barrel-coffered vault influenced Dalmatian early Renaissance art. Scottish architect Robert Adam considered Jupiter's Temple one of Europe's most beautiful monuments. Today, the Temple of Jupiter is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Diocletian's Palace.
A brief summary to Jupiter's Temple
Use Jupiter's Temple as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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