Split, pronounced 'split' is our destination for two days. The first day to check out Diocletian's Palace and the city of Split. The second day to visit other the islands in the area. But first, some history.
Diocletian is both famous and infamous. He ruled Rome from 284-305, an unprecedented amount of time in those days. Indeed, the first emperor to retire and not be murdered. During his 'successful' tenure he is known for two moments in history. First, at his demand, he divided the huge empire among four emperors. Arguably the beginning of the end of the Roman Empire. Secondly, he finished his reign with the execution of thousands of Christians. (Many on the Dalmatian Coast) Ironic in that Constantine, who followed him as Emporer, legalized Christianity and indeed made it the official religion of the empire. Talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time......
So, in retirement, he built this palace in Split. 11 years and 2,000 dead slaves later he cut the ribbon. His last days were spent tending his vegetable garden. Eventually, after his death, the palace was abandoned but by the 600's locals invited themselves in fleeing the Slavic invaders. Finally, in the 15th century, the Venetians took over the Dalmatian Coast and redeveloped and fortified the palace. Today, Split and the palace are packed with history, people and gelato.
Diocletian is both famous and infamous. He ruled Rome from 284-305, an unprecedented amount of time in those days. Indeed, the first emperor to retire and not be murdered. During his 'successful' tenure he is known for two moments in history. First, at his demand, he divided the huge empire among four emperors. Arguably the beginning of the end of the Roman Empire. Secondly, he finished his reign with the execution of thousands of Christians. (Many on the Dalmatian Coast) Ironic in that Constantine, who followed him as Emporer, legalized Christianity and indeed made it the official religion of the empire. Talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time......
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| At one point there were 13 of the sphinxs in the palace. Only two remain. Both with broken noses. |
So, in retirement, he built this palace in Split. 11 years and 2,000 dead slaves later he cut the ribbon. His last days were spent tending his vegetable garden. Eventually, after his death, the palace was abandoned but by the 600's locals invited themselves in fleeing the Slavic invaders. Finally, in the 15th century, the Venetians took over the Dalmatian Coast and redeveloped and fortified the palace. Today, Split and the palace are packed with history, people and gelato.
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| The almost 2000-year-old catacombs under the palace contained water, food and garbage depending on who was in the palace at the time. Now, gift shops and restaurants. |
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