Immersed in the rich history and culture of the Dalmatian coast, Split’s Old Town is a living open-air museum and the beating heart of the city. Its origins date back to the 4th century AD, when the Roman Emperor Diocletian decided to build his magnificent retirement palace right here.
Today, Split’s Old Town is not only a testament to Roman architectural art, but also a melting pot of cultural influences from different eras. From Venetian palaces to medieval churches and the influences of Austro-Hungarian architecture, every stone in Split reflects a different era.
Split’s Old Town is thus not only a place for historical exploration, but also a vibrant centre of modern life, where traditional cafes stand next to contemporary art galleries and street musicians keep the city’s heritage alive.
A visit to Split’s Old Town is therefore a journey through time, taking visitors into a world where history and the present merge in a unique way.
Diocletian’s Palace, located in the heart of the old town of Split, is an architectural masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that fascinates visitors with its impressive history and variety of architectural features.
Originally built in the early 4th century by the Roman Emperor Diocletian as a retirement home, this monumental complex covers what was once an entire Roman fortress. Today, the palace forms the vibrant center of Split, where historic architecture blends seamlessly into city life.
The heart of the palace is the Peristyle, an open courtyard surrounded by well-preserved columns and arches that once served as a reception area for the emperor. Today it is a popular meeting place for both locals and tourists who enjoy the historic atmosphere and the regular cultural events held there.
Another highlight is the Cathedral of St. Domnius, located in the former mausoleum of Diocletian. Dedicated to the martyr and first bishop of Salona, Sveti Duje, this cathedral impresses with a mixture of originally Roman and later added medieval structures. The adjacent bell tower offers excellent views over the city and the sea and is a must-see for every visitor.
Not to be forgotten are the Podrumi, the cellars of the palace, which are known for their impressive preservation and current use as a marketplace and exhibition space for local artisans and souvenir sellers.
The palace’s various gates, including the famous Golden Gate, offer fascinating insights into the defensive mechanisms and architecture of the Roman period. The Golden Gate, located in the north of the complex, is particularly famous for its impressive architecture and the statues that once served to guard the entrance.
Located in the heart of Split’s Old Town, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius is considered to be one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals in the world still in use in its original structure. Originally built as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Diocletian, this impressive structure was converted into a cathedral in the 7th century after the relics of Saint Domnius, an early Christian martyr, were brought here.
The cathedral is notable not only for its long history, but also for its architectural features. Particularly noteworthy is the impressive bell tower, which is open to visitors and is one of the most popular attractions in Split’s old town.
Although the climb up the bell tower is challenging as the steps are steep and partially worn, the effort is worth it: visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views over the rooftops of Split, the azure sea and the surrounding mountains.
Visiting the Cathedral of St. Domnius and especially climbing its bell tower offers a unique opportunity to delve deep into the history and culture of Split while enjoying spectacular panoramic views.
Originally built in the 3rd century, this temple was dedicated to the worship of the Roman god Jupiter. After the fall of the Roman Empire and the subsequent spread of Christianity, the temple was converted into a Christian baptistery, with many of its original decorations removed or modified.
One of the temple’s most notable artistic features is an Egyptian sphinx that stands before the entrance. A relic of a time when the Romans brought Egyptian artwork to Europe, this sphinx underscores the Roman Empire’s far-reaching cultural connections.
Notable for its well-preserved ancient portico and impressive barrel vault, the Temple of Jupiter remains an important historical and tourist site in Split. Visitors can admire the elaborate carvings and reliefs that adorn the walls, offering a glimpse into the artistic expression of the ancient world.
This combination of historical significance and artistic beauty makes the Temple of Jupiter an indispensable part of any visit to Split Old Town.
The Riva promenade in Split is the vibrant heart of the city and plays a central role in the social life of the region. This charming promenade is a popular meeting place for both locals and tourists. Lined with lush palm trees and surrounded by historic buildings, the Riva provides a picturesque backdrop to daily life and the many events that take place here.
Visitors to the Riva can discover a variety of cafes, bars and restaurants serving local and international cuisine. The Riva is particularly known for its lively atmosphere, especially during the summer months when the promenade becomes the scene of various cultural and musical events.
The combination of stunning location, rich gastronomic offer and vibrant cultural scene makes the Riva an indispensable part of any visit to the Old Town of Split. It embodies the city’s vibrant maritime heritage and remains a symbolic place that combines tradition and modernity in a unique way.
Republic Square is one of the most distinctive and important squares in Split’s old town. This spacious square is surrounded by impressive neoclassical buildings built in the 19th century, offering an enchanting ambience that is strongly reminiscent of the grandeur and architecture of Italian piazzas.
Republic Square is a popular venue for cultural events, concerts and festivals, making it a vibrant centre of social life in Split.
There are numerous historical buildings surrounding Republic Square that offer deep insights into the city’s rich past. Among them is the Split City Museum, which is housed in one of the old palaces and presents an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits on the history of Split.
In addition to Republic Square, other important squares in Split’s Old Town are also of great cultural and social importance. Pjaca Square (People’s Square), the oldest and largest square in Split, offers another fascinating insight into the social and architectural heart of the city.
These squares are not only important social and cultural centers, but also living witnesses of Split’s past and present, inviting visitors to experience and enjoy history in a lively way.
The best time to visit Split is in spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm but not too hot, and the city is less crowded than in the peak summer months. This allows for a more relaxed exploration of Split’s Old Town and other attractions.
A visit to Split, especially the fascinating Old Town, is a journey through the rich history and vibrant culture of this unique city. To make the most of your stay in Split, we recommend that you plan at least three to four days. This will give you plenty of time to explore the famous historical sights as well as enjoy modern city life.
The mix of ancient ruins, medieval buildings and modern facilities makes Split Old Town a dynamic and fascinating destination. Numerous cultural events, street performers and lively markets add to the lively atmosphere and make every visit a unique experience.
