The history of Split spans more than 17 centuries and dates back to the time when the Roman Emperor Diocletian decided to build his great palace on a peninsula near the great Roman city of Salona. He wanted to spend the last years of his life here. Over the past 1,700 years, the palace has gradually been transformed into a vibrant city that still captivates visitors today with its rich traditions, glorious history and impressive natural and cultural heritage.
Diocletian’s Palace and the entire historic centre of Split have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 — not only because of the exceptional preservation of the palace, but also because the city itself remains alive within its ancient walls. The traces of history, from ancient Rome through the Middle Ages to the present day, are still visible and actively shape the character of the city.
This fascinating blend of history is reflected in everyday life. Locals and visitors sit in the same cafés and restaurants, shop in the same shops and stroll through the same streets. Tourists don’t just observe the city — they become part of its rhythm.
But Split is much more than an open-air museum of architectural wonders. It is a centre for excellent gastronomy, lively cultural events — including film and theatre festivals, exhibitions and concerts — and an exciting nightlife. From intimate bars and lively clubs to large street festivals and the world-renowned Ultra Europe Festival, which attracts up to 100,000 visitors from over 100 countries, Split offers entertainment for all tastes.
Sport is deeply rooted in the city’s identity. Despite its modest size, Split has produced an impressive number of Olympic medallists and world-class athletes, making it one of the most successful sports cities of its size.
If you need a break from the energy of the city, Marjan Hill offers a green sanctuary just above the city. With its forests, jogging trails, climbing routes and ancient churches, it offers space for both adventure and spiritual contemplation. And unlike many other cities, Split has a stunning coastline with exceptionally clean beaches — from the famous sandy beach of Bačvice, where locals play the traditional ball game "picigin'," to the secluded rocky coves around Marjan.
So after all this, are you really surprised that the people of Split proudly say: “There's no place like Split”?
For years, Split was just a transit point for travellers on their way to the Dalmatian islands, but in recent years the city has become a destination in its own right. Visitors are drawn to its unique "split personality" — a rare Mediterranean gem that has retained its authenticity despite globalisation. Many come to experience its unrivalled energy, its beauty and, as the locals say, its “craziness” Some come to witness the “picigin",” a popular game played all year round, regardless of the season, in the shallow waters of the beach. Others seek out the art of "fjaka" — a state of complete relaxation and mindfulness. Often misunderstood as laziness, fjaka is actually a sublime state that people in other parts of the world try to achieve through years of meditation and asceticism. In Dalmatia, however, it is a natural gift.
As a reward for its enduring hospitality and growing appeal, Split was named Croatia’s Tourism Champion in both 2012 and 2017.
Welcome to the heart of Dalmatia.
Welcome to our home town: SPLIT!