1700 years of Split

1995 marks an important anniversary year in Dalmatian cultural history. Exactly 1700 years ago, the Roman Emperor Diocletian began building his spectacular palace, where he spent the final years of his life.

Diocletian's Palace was strategically constructed on the Adriatic coastline, only four miles from Salona which was the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. White limestone was transported to the coast from the rich quarries on the island of Brac. This limestone is recognized as the finest quality in the world and it was used to build the many outstanding structures located in the Palace. One of these structures is the monumental Peristyle, which is among the most magnificent and unique historical courtyards in the world.

Today, the Peristyle captures perfectly the essence of the Diocletian's Palace. It is hang-out spot for the city's youth. Its character is a mixture of living history as well as modern culture. The Palace has molded the personality of down town Split, where most of the city's significant historical building are found as well as its most successful businesses or shops and cafes are located. Diocletian's Palace is one of the most unique architectural and cultural construct in Europe. Thus, its historical and cultural significance far transcends its local importance due to its extraordinary level of preservation.