Split history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Split is unique in that the city effectively grew inside a single building. Although archaeologists have found traces of the Greek settlement Aspalathos (4th–3rd centuries BC), the true birth of the city is considered to be the commencement of the construction of the grand palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian.

The complex was erected between 295 and 305 AD. Diocletian, the only Roman emperor to voluntarily abdicate power, chose this sheltered bay near his birthplace (ancient Salona) to spend his retirement. After his passing, the palace remained Roman property and subsequently became the foundation of the future city.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of the imperial residence into a fully-fledged medieval city was driven by several important factors:

• Security and Fortification: In the 7th century, when the neighbouring provincial capital of Salona was destroyed by Avars and Slavs, the surviving residents fled behind the mighty walls of Diocletian's Palace. The high walls and towers turned the residence into an impregnable fortress-sanctuary.
• Geography: Its location on a peninsula with a deep, protected harbour facilitated the development of maritime activities. Split became a key port on the eastern coast of the Adriatic.
• Political Autonomy: Thanks to powerful fortifications and diplomacy, early Split managed to maintain a certain degree of autonomy, balancing between Byzantium, Venice, and the Croatian rulers of the hinterlands.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the early Middle Ages, Split represented a remarkable example of adapting antique heritage to new needs. Former imperial chambers were rebuilt into residential homes, and the wide corridors of the palace turned into narrow city streets.

The cultural and economic life of the city had its own distinct features:

• Transformation of Ancient Shrines: The Mausoleum of Diocletian, a persecutor of Christians, was paradoxically converted into the Cathedral of Saint Domnius (Duje), and the Temple of Jupiter became a baptistery. This allowed the ancient structures to be preserved in pristine condition.
• Trade Hub: The city's economy was built on transit trade. Split served as a gateway for goods moving from Bosnia and the Balkan interior to the sea and onwards to Italy.
• Production: Workshops were located in the palace basements and on the ground floors of buildings, producing olive oil, wine, and textiles, providing the city with all necessities.

Major Historical Milestones

• 295–305 AD — Roman Emperor Diocletian builds a fortified residence on the coast, which becomes the core of the future city.
• Circa 614 AD — Residents of Salona, destroyed by barbarians, find refuge behind the palace walls, turning it into a fortified settlement.
• 1105 — The city peacefully passes under the rule of the Hungarian-Croatian King Coloman, retaining broad autonomy.
• 1242 — Adoption of the Statute, establishing legal norms and urban self-governance for medieval Split.
• 1420 — The beginning of nearly four centuries of Venetian rule, which defined the architectural appearance of the old centre.
• 1797 — The fall of Venice and the transfer of the city to the administration of the Habsburg Monarchy.
• 1806–1813 — The period of Napoleon's French administration, marked by street modernisation and the demolition of parts of the old fortifications.
• 1918 — After the dissolution of Austria-Hungary, Split becomes the most important port of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes.
• 1979 — The historical complex of Split with Diocletian's Palace is officially included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• 1979 — The city hosts the VIII Mediterranean Games, stimulating large-scale construction, including the famous Poljud Stadium.
• 1991 — Split becomes the second-largest city in the independent Republic of Croatia.

Stages of Urban and Cultural Development

The architectural and economic appearance of Split was formed in layers over centuries. Each era left its mark, transforming the imperial residence into a modern, dynamic metropolis.

• Venetian Urbanisation (15th–18th centuries).

  During this period, Split definitively took shape as a medieval Adriatic city. Venetian influence brought Gothic and Renaissance styles to the architecture of noble palaces. Significance: The centre of public life shifted from the ancient Peristyle to the People's Square (Pjaca), where the Town Hall was built, forming a new city centre outside the palace walls.

• French Modernisation (1806–1813).

  The short rule of Napoleon's administration under the leadership of Marshal Marmont gave a powerful impulse to development. Parts of the old fortress walls hindering the city's growth were demolished, and the first public parks were established. Significance: The city began to "breathe," with the appearance of wide streets (including Marmont Street) and modern street lighting.

• The Bajamonti Era and Infrastructural Breakthrough (Second half of the 19th century).

  Under the leadership of Mayor Antonio Bajamonti, Split acquired a European polish. Diocletian's ancient aqueduct was restored, providing the city with water, and the monumental Prokurative complex was built, reminiscent of St. Mark's Square in Venice. Significance: Transformation from a provincial town into a modern European centre with a theatre and developed infrastructure.

• Establishment as a Major Port (1918–1940s).

  After neighbouring Zadar was ceded to Italy, Split took on the role of the main port on the eastern Adriatic coast. A railway was laid, connecting the city with the continent's centre (Lika and Zagreb). Significance: Sharp economic and demographic growth, and the beginning of large-scale industrialisation.

• Project "Split-3" and Industrialisation (1960–1970s).

  In response to rapid population growth and the development of shipbuilding, the unique urban planning project "Split-3" was implemented. These are not merely residential districts, but a thoughtful environment with pedestrian streets and developed infrastructure. Significance: The city expanded far to the east, creating comfortable housing for tens of thousands of new residents.

• Mediterranean Games (1979).

  Preparation for this sporting event radically renewed the transport network. The famous Poljud Stadium (an architectural masterpiece in the shape of a seashell), the tunnel through Marjan Hill, and new port and airport terminals were built. Significance: Creation of a base for modern tourism and the city's sporting life.

Architectural Appearance: A Symbiosis of Eras

The urban fabric of Split is unique in that it did not simply expand from the centre to the outskirts, but literally grew through ancient ruins. The city serves as a visual guide to architectural history, where Roman palace walls stand adjacent to Venetian palazzos and modern developments.

Evolution of Styles and Iconic Buildings

Each historical period left its dominant features in Split, forming the city's recognisable silhouette:

• Roman Antiquity (4th century).

  The foundation of the city. The style is characterised by monumentality, the use of massive stone blocks, arches, and columns.

  Key Monuments: Diocletian's Palace itself, including the Peristyle (central square), basement halls, the Golden Gate, and the Temple of Jupiter.

• Romanesque and Gothic (12th–15th centuries).

  A period when the city densified within the palace walls. Roman monumentality was replaced by exquisite carving, lancet windows, and narrow vertical forms.

  Key Monuments: The Bell Tower of St. Domnius Cathedral (started in Romanesque style and completed later), the Old Town Hall on the People's Square, and the Papalić Palace — the finest example of Flamboyant Gothic in the city (now the City Museum).

• Renaissance and Baroque (15th–18th centuries).

  Influenced by Venice, local nobility built luxurious residences with inner courtyards and richly decorated facades. This is an era of harmony and symmetry.

  Key Monuments: Milesi Palace with its impressive Baroque facade and Cindro Palace. During this period, the Gripe Fortress was also built for protection against the Ottoman threat.

• Historicism and Neo-styles (19th century).

  The expansion of the city beyond the fortress walls was marked by the construction of wide promenades and public buildings in the spirit of European capitals.

  Key Monuments: The Prokurative complex (Republic Square) in Neo-Renaissance style, reminiscent of Venetian squares, and the Croatian National Theatre building.

• Modernism and Contemporary Architecture (20th century).

  After World War II, Split experienced explosive growth. Architects experimented with concrete and functionalism, creating bold projects.

  Key Monuments: The Split-3 district (a recognised masterpiece of urbanism with pedestrian streets) and the famous Poljud Stadium, shaped like an open seashell.

Distinguished Personalities of Split

The history of Split is inextricably linked with the names of rulers, creators, and athletes who shaped the city's appearance and brought it worldwide fame.

• Diocletian (c. 244–311)
  Roman Emperor
  The founder of the city. It was his decision to build a fortified residence on the coast that gave rise to Split. His palace is today the heart of the historical centre and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Thomas the Archdeacon (1200–1268)
  Chronicler and cleric
  A medieval historian and author of the fundamental work "History of the Bishops of Salona and Split" (Historia Salonitana). His records serve as the main source of knowledge about the city's early history and life on the Dalmatian coast.
• Marko Marulić (1450–1524)
  Poet and humanist
  Known as the "father of Croatian literature." He was born, lived, and created in Split. His epic poem "Judita" became the first major work written in the Croatian language. A monument to him stands on the Brothers Radić Square.
• Antonio Bajamonti (1822–1891)
  City Mayor and physician
  One of the most active mayors in Split's history. Initiator of the large-scale modernisation of the 19th century: under his tenure, the water supply was restored, the Prokurative was built, the theatre was opened, and gas street lighting was introduced.
• Emanuel Vidović (1870–1953)
  Painter
  An outstanding painter whose work is inextricably linked with the landscapes of Split and the Adriatic. His works, filled with a special atmosphere and light, constitute an important part of Croatia's cultural heritage.
• Ivan Meštrović (1883–1962)
  Sculptor and architect
  Although not born in Split itself, he is closely connected to the city. Meštrović donated his summer residence (now the Meštrović Gallery) to Split and created the monumental statue of Grgur Ninski, which has become one of the city's symbols.
• Miljenko Smoje (1923–1995)
  Journalist, writer, and screenwriter
  The chief chronicler of the Split mentality and lifestyle of the 20th century. His humorous chronicles and television series ("Naše malo misto") became cult classics and are still quoted by locals today.
• Goran Ivanišević (born 1971)
  Tennis player
  A legend of world tennis and a Wimbledon winner. A bright representative of Split as "the most sporting city in the world," which has raised numerous Olympic champions.