Split Croatia is a stunning city located on the Adriatic coast of Croatia. It’s a lively and vibrant destination that offers travelers a unique blend of ancient and modern experiences. Split is the second largest city in Croatia after the capital Zagreb and one of the most fascinating cities found along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast.
Split is certainly worth visiting for its fascinating history which dates back to the era when the city was part of the Roman Empire up to the time of Venice rule and occupation by Italy during World War II. The Old Town in Split is home to one of Europe’s few completed remains of a Roman Palace, the Diocletian Palace. The city itself is full of life which will excite travellers of all ages. Split’s proximity to the Adriatic Sea, beautiful islands like Brac, Hvar, Vis and many other interesting places in Croatia make it a city you’ll definitely want to explore.
Both Split and Dubrovnik are fantastic cities. The two cities are home to some of the finest historic buildings in Europe, both are situated along the beautiful Adriatic Coast and are within the vicinity of some of Croatia’s most stunning islands.
Start your tour of Split by taking a walking tour of the city’s most famous and remarkable landmark, Diocletian Palace.
The palace was initially built as a retirement home for the Roman emperor, Diocletian, in the fourth century and is now Split city centre. Diocletian, born Diocles in Solin, a town close to Split centre, rose through army ranks and reigned as emperor for two decades. In 305 AD, Diocletian stood down and retired to the palace and interestingly, found great joy in growing vegetables. Diocletian Palace is an impressive structure that resembles a fortress with defensive walls, fortified towers and gates. Its narrow winding lanes are now Split’s vibrant streets which are home to countless shops, homes, restaurants and bars.
Interestingly, Diocletian Palace was built using the famous white stone from Brac Island which is said to have also been used to build the White House in America, UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Croatia such as the Cathedral of St James in Sibenik and the Cathedral of St Lawrence in Trogir.
A walking tour of the Diocletian Palace is worthwhile as the palace is huge with a lot of interesting sights to discover. The palace is adorned with several medieval fortifications and houses stunning Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque palaces, historical churches, medieval quaint streets and courtyards.
