About this experience
You will explore all the iconic places of charismatic Split, see the ancient palace, and feel the breath of past civilizations. I will tell you about the ethnogenesis of Croats, the relations of Yugoslavia with the Soviet Union, the ups and downs of Russian-speaking businessmen in Split.
What to expect
Split through the ages
You will stroll along the picturesque city waterfront and learn who and when decided to build this promenade. Next, we will walk through the 'shopping gallery' of the Diocletian's Palace basements: imagine how they looked in the 3rd-4th centuries, and learn interesting facts about ancient architecture. From the basements, we will come out into the Peristyle - the heart of Split. You will admire the Cathedral, which served as the emperor's mausoleum, listen to folk songs, and see mosaic fragments of famous Roman baths. I will tell the story of Split from the great Roman emperor Diocletian to the enigmatic Josip Broz Tito, from the Illyrians, Greeks, Venetians to Communists and Partisans, from Yugoslavia to Croatia.
Legendary city gates
I will show you the ancient gates of Split and reveal their history. Through the Golden Gate, the emperor Diocletian entered the city, the Silver Gates led to the central square, and the Southern Gates led to the shipyard. But the Iron Gates have best preserved, witnesses of seventeen centuries of city life. I will tell you why a Christian cross rises above them and whether there was really a statue of Nike in its place before. Next, we will walk along the narrowest street in Split called 'Let me pass'. You will see the Temple of Jupiter and take a photo against the backdrop of a sphinx, which according to legends, belonged to Cleopatra herself. And you will also find out where many Croatian grandmothers and grandfathers know the expression: 'There once lived a crocodile, he spoke Russian'.
Local delicacies and valuable tips
While walking along the cozy streets of Split, if desired, we can visit specialized stores and taste local cheeses. I will show you where to buy the most delicious ice cream, the best olive oil, and quality souvenirs. I will tell you about Croatian alcohol and Dalmatian wines. I will also recommend good restaurants and beaches, explain how to get to the nearby islands of Brac and Hvar.
Organizational details
- Entrance tickets are not included in the tour price: Diocletian's basements - 7 euros, Cathedral - 3 euros, bell tower - 3 euros, Baptistery or Temple of Jupiter - 2 euros, Church of St. Lucy - 2 euros
- The tour ends at Prokurative Square or a viewpoint overlooking Split and the islands
- If you are traveling in the summer, we can see the short show 'The Departure of Emperor Diocletian' in the historic center of Split. It takes place daily at noon in June-August.
