What is worth seeing in Split, Croatia?
The history of this city resembles a tale. At the end of the 3rd century, Emperor Diocletian, tired of ruling, gossip and court intrigues, decided to abdicate. His dream was to spend the rest of his life in a beautiful and sunny place, away from conflicts and wars. So he used his fortune to build a fortress on Dalmatian coast, where Split is now located. Attractions in this city include the famous Diocletian’s Palace, where the former emperor spent the last years of his life. The Old Town of Split is located… inside the former palace! It was so huge that today, when drinking coffee in a café or walking the narrow streets, you find yourself within its walls! However, this is just one of many places worth visiting here. Take the free tour of Split with us and discover the greatest attractions of this Croatian city!
Split – main attractions
Split is Croatia’s second-largest city, popular among visitors from all over the world. In addition to beautiful views and great weather, the city impresses with unique monuments, especially, the aforementioned Diocletian’s Palace. This monumental building, over 1,700 years old, is a treat for lovers of Roman palaces and a UNESCO World Heritage site. One of the most magnificent entrances to the Palace is the Golden Gate, which once had the most beautiful ornamentation and still looks extremely impressive today.
Emperor Diocletian is not only known for building the palace but also for persecuting Christians and was instrumental in the death of St Dujam, today’s patron saint of Split. Fate can be fickle, however: in the 7th century, Diocletian’s body was removed from the palace mausoleum and the Christian Cathedral of St Dujam was erected on the site. The building can be visited today together with the 57-meter-high Romanesque bell tower, which offers a breath-taking view of Split – visitors to the city are keen to take advantage of this attraction, with great photos and extraordinary views from the top.
Diocletian also initiated the construction of the Temple of Jupiter, which was also eventually transformed into a Christian building in the 7th century – it was turned into a baptistery. The entrance to the Temple is defended by a black sphinx, which is one of twelve sphinxes Diocletian brought to Split from Egypt.
While in Split, it is also worth going to the monument to Bishop Grgur Ninski to… touch the big toe of his left foot. People say it brings luck, we cannot guarantee that it is true, but it wouldn’t hurt to try! The statue was sculpted in 1929 by Ivan Meštrović, Croatia’s most famous sculptor. Everyone visiting Split is impressed by the Riva seaside promenade, which is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the whole of Croatia. Those thirsty for a beach holiday can enjoy the sun on one of the many beaches, such as Bačvice, Firule, Ježinac, Kašjuni or Bene.
Free walking tour – Split with a professional guide
Want to visit one of Croatia’s most beautiful cities with a guide? The best way is to take our free walking tour! Split is one of the many cities where you will find guides cooperating with Walkative! Free walking tours in Split are tours that you book without any predetermined price, the payment for the guide is something you determine on your own, taking into account the commitment, knowledge and work of the guide. Such walking tours of Split are addressed to individual tourists, including families, couples and small groups of friends. It is an ideal way to get to know the city and its secrets, joining a tour led by a local guide. Apart from Split, you can also visit other Croatian cities with us – Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Zadar.