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Golden Gate: A Majestic Entrance to Split's History

Step through history at Split's Golden Gate: a majestic Roman entrance to Diocletian's Palace and a gateway to the city's vibrant Old Town.

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The Golden Gate, or Porta Aurea, is the grand northern entrance to Diocletian's Palace in Split, Croatia. Built in the 4th century AD, it was originally the main ceremonial entry point for Emperor Diocletian and symbolized the power of the Roman Empire. Today, it stands as a captivating historical landmark and a gateway to Split's vibrant Old Town.

A brief summary to Golden Gate

  • Dioklecijanova 7, Split, 21000, HR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the Golden Gate in a more peaceful setting.
  • Take a guided tour of Diocletian's Palace to fully appreciate the history and significance of the Golden Gate.
  • Don't forget to rub the big toe of the Gregory of Nin statue for good luck !
  • Explore the charming streets of Split's Old Town after passing through the Golden Gate.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Riva (Split's waterfront promenade), walk north through the Old Town following the signs for Diocletian's Palace. The Golden Gate is located on the northern side of the palace, near the statue of Gregory of Nin. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Split Airport, take the Promet Split bus line 2 to Split - Tržnica. From there, it's a short 5-minute walk north towards Diocletian's Palace. The Golden Gate will be on your left, just past the Gregory of Nin statue. The bus ticket costs approximately €2-3.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Split. A taxi ride from the Split ferry port or bus station to the Golden Gate typically costs around €5-10 and takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Gregory of Nin statue.

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Discover more about Golden Gate

The Golden Gate, known in Croatian as Zlatna vrata and in Latin as Porta Aurea, is one of the four principal Roman gates of Diocletian's Palace, marking the northern entrance to Split's historic center. Constructed in the early 4th century AD, this gate was more than just an entrance; it was a symbol of imperial authority and prestige. The name 'Golden' reflects its significance, although no actual gold was used in its construction. It served as the main ceremonial entrance for Emperor Diocletian and his esteemed guests. Originally named Porta Septemtrionalis (Northern Gate) by the Romans, the Golden Gate connected the palace to Salona, Diocletian's birthplace and the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. The gate was designed with a rectangular shape and double doors as part of a defensive military strategy. Niches on the facade once held sculptures of the four tetrarchs: Diocletian, Maximian, Galerius, and Constantius Chlorus. Over the centuries, the gate has undergone several transformations. During the Middle Ages, it was sealed off, losing its columns and statuary. Small churches were built over the gates amidst the upheavals of the Migration Period, including the church of St. Martin above the Golden Gate. In front of the Golden Gate stands the imposing statue of Gregory of Nin (Grgur Ninski), created by the renowned Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović. Gregory of Nin was a 10th-century bishop who advocated for using the Croatian language in the church, making him a symbol of Croatian language and culture. Touching the statue's big toe is said to bring good luck, a tradition that has made the toe a distinct color from the rest of the statue. Today, the Golden Gate is a must-see attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into Split's rich history and architectural marvels. Passing through the gate, visitors enter Split's Old Town, a vibrant maze of charming streets, historic buildings, and lively squares.

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