The Sphinx of Split

Nestled within the heart of Split's Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, lies an authentic Egyptian sphinx, a silent sentinel with a rich history. Brought to Split over 1,700 years ago by Emperor Diocletian, this black granite androsphinx—a creature with a lion's body and a human head—dates back to the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III. It is believed that Diocletian brought as many as twelve sphinxes from Egypt after quelling a rebellion around 297 A.D., placing them strategically within his palace to reflect Egyptian customs and beliefs regarding the afterlife. Of the original twelve, only one has survived the ravages of time relatively intact. This particular sphinx, made of black granite, stands in the Peristyle, the palace's central courtyard. The sphinx holds a vessel for offerings in her hands. Over 3,400 years old, it is one of the oldest objects in Split. The sphinx has witnessed countless generations pass by. Another headless sphinx can be found in front of the Temple of Jupiter. The remaining fragments of the other sphinxes are now housed in museums around the city and within the cellars of Diocletian's Palace. According to local lore, American industrialist Cornelius Vanderbilt once sought to purchase the Peristyle sphinx, but his offer was declined.