Split and 1,700-year-old palace

Split began its life in 305 AD, when Roman Emperor Diocletian built his palace near the small town of Spalatum on the Adriatic coast. Gradually, it developed into the present-day city of Split. The well-preserved remains of Diocletian’s Palace (UNESCO world heritage) have merged into the city center and now they form the city’s historical core.

As the biggest Dalmatian city, Split is an embodiment of the life in Dalmatia: the rhythm and energy of the Mediterranean mentality can be felt in the flagstone streets lined with cafés, restaurants and boutiques.  Numerous cultural and sport events take place in the city throughout the year. Prominent among them is the Split Summer Festival – one of the biggest and oldest national events that turns the entire city into a stage.

Locals call their city “the most beautiful” and “the greatest sport” city in the world. It is a home of some of the best athletes in the world, like Wimbledon–winner Goran Ivanišević, Olympic swimming gold medalist Đurđica Bjedov, NBA players Toni Kukoč and Dino Rađa and many other world-acclaimed athletes.

In addition to various attractions within city limits, Split has interesting surroundings, too. It is enclosed by Marjan, Kozjak and Mosor Hills on one side and by a string of islands (Šolta, Brač and Hvar) on the other. The old Romanesque town of Trogir (also on the UNESCO list), legendary Omiš and the River Cetina canyon are also in the vicinity. As all these locations are relatively close and well-connected with Split, day trips to there are easy to make.

As a combination of old and new, Split has recently been recognized as one of world’s most attractive destinations. Luckily, the city’s life is dynamic throughout the year,  so you don’t have to wait for an ideal moment to visit it.

Just come as soon as possible!

Split top 10

The following sights and experiences are a must in Split:

Diocletian’s Palace (UNESCO): the basement vaulted hall, Vestibule, Temple of Jupiter

Prokurative (Roman porticos) and Peristil Square

St. Domnius’ Cathedral and its bell tower you can climb

The Meštrović Gallery and statue of Grgur of Nin

Ruins of Roman Salona

Hiking or cycling through Marjan protected forest; beautiful view of the city and palace from the top

The game of picigin on Bačvice Beach

Enjoying a cup of coffee and a cake on sunny waterfront

Enjoying atmosphere of city’s green and fish markets

Advent in Split

More from Central Dalmatia

Omiš

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The view of the town of Omiš, nested at the entrance of the magnificent canyon of the River Cetina, is like a dramatic scene from some great film. No less amazing is its past, exciting stories of the Poljica and legends of Omiš pirates.

Dalmatian

Hinterland

Dalmatian Hinterland and its scenic wonders and varied cultural heritage are a true uncut diamond. Discovering its treasures and beauties is a unforgettable experience. Enjoy beautiful views, clean air and pristine nature. 

Dalmatian

islands

Croatia is a land of thousand islands and 74 of them can be found in Central Dalmatia. The inhabited ones among them have been turned into real treasure troves of history, culture and tradition and exploring them is a true pleasure.

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