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Diocletian Palace in Split |
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 Diocletian Palace
The symmetrical layout of the structure with its two intersecting streets is classical but most of the palace reflects the eclecticism of late antiquity. Part imperial villa and part fortified camp, the palace is remarkable for the diversity of forms, which include the octagonal domed mausoleum, the rectangular Temple of Jupiter, the cruciform lower level of the Vestibule, and circular temples to Cybele and Venus. The vast Roman Empire of late antiquity easily absorbed foreign influences, apparent in the Egyptian sphinxes outside the Temple of Jupiter and the mausoleum, rebuilt as the Cathedral of St Domnius.
 Diocletian Palace
The ceremonial entrance court is Peristyle, a rectangle measuring 35 X 13m and a few steps below the level of the surrounding streets. The longer sides are lined by six granite columns and two piers with Corinthian capitals; the columns are linked by arches decorated with a stone frieze. In the northeast corner is the small Renaissance church of St Rok, dating from the 16th century. The western side of the rectangle is enclosed by several medieval buildings which fit within the ancient columns. Notice the loggia with Romanesque columns on the Grisogono-Cipci palace.
The southern side of the Peristyle is enclosed by the Protiron, an entrance into the imperial quarters: a triangular gable is supported by four columns with an arch between the two central ones. Under the arch there used to be the imperial loggia. On each side of the Protiron were chapels built between the columns.
 Diocletian Statue
Stairs on the left side lead down to the basement halls, which retain a strong sense of grandeur in spite of the many stalls selling local jewelry and crafts. Diocletian's Palace was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 as much for the gothic and baroque buildings that date from the middle ages as for its Roman origins.
The highlight of our time spent in Diocletian’s Palace was the Palace tour. You get a Docent and are put in with a small group of fellow travelers. Ours took us to the deepest recesses of the Palace basement. Excavation of the debris that packed the foundation of the palace salvaged many artifacts and left an exact replica of the interior quarters of the palace for the ages. We explored catacombs of rooms that have been identified for their upstairs functions. A bust is preserved, as well as a roman eating tray and various tools. Our docent was great. She was into the history, and loved showcasing her knowledge.
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