Diocletian’s Palace is easily one of the main reasons people visit Split, and for good reason. This enormous structure, built in the early 4th century by the Roman Emperor Diocletian, was originally intended as his retirement home. What makes it really special is that it’s not just an ancient ruin—it’s a lively part of the city where people live, work, and gather. In fact, it’s so well-preserved and historically important that it’s been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Covering an area of over 30,000 square meters, the palace feels more like a small city. As you wander through its winding streets, you’ll find Roman columns, ancient walls, and underground cellars alongside modern cafes, boutiques, and apartments. This mix of old and new is what gives the palace its unique charm. Unlike many historical sites that are just places to visit, Diocletian’s Palace is a place to explore, where the history is still very much alive.

One of the highlights is the Peristyle, a grand courtyard at the heart of the palace. With its towering columns and stone arches, it’s a great place to sit, relax, and take in the atmosphere. You’ll often find locals and tourists enjoying a coffee here, or listening to live music performances that echo off the ancient stones. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of actors dressed as Roman soldiers, giving the area a bit of extra character.

The palace is also home to the Cathedral of St. Domnius, which was originally Diocletian’s mausoleum. The cathedral’s bell tower is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. For a small fee, you can climb to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Split’s terracotta rooftops and out to the sparkling Adriatic Sea. It’s definitely worth the effort, especially if you’re looking for that perfect photo spot.

Don’t miss the underground cellars either—these vast, vaulted rooms were once used for storage and are now open to the public. They give you a real sense of the scale of the palace, and some areas are used for exhibitions or local markets where you can pick up unique souvenirs.

Visiting Diocletian’s Palace is like stepping into a living museum. It’s not just a place to learn about history, but a place to experience it. The palace isn’t just a must-see; it’s the very soul of Split, and exploring it will give you a true sense of what makes this city so special.