1995 marks an important anniversary year in Dalmatian cultural history.
Exactly 1700 years ago, the Roman Emperor Diocletian began building
his spectacular palace, where he spent the final years of his life.
Diocletian's Palace was strategically constructed on the Adriatic
coastline, only four miles from Salona which was
the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. White limestone
was transported to the coast from the rich quarries on the island of
Brac. This limestone is recognized as the finest quality in the world
and it was used to build the many outstanding structures
located in the Palace. One of these structures is the monumental
Peristyle, which is among the most magnificent and unique historical
courtyards in the world.
Today, the Peristyle captures perfectly the essence of the Diocletian's
Palace. It is hang-out spot for the city's youth. Its character is a
mixture of living history as well as modern culture.
The Palace has molded the personality of down town
Split, where most of
the city's significant historical building are found as well as
its most successful businesses or shops and cafes are located.
Diocletian's Palace is one of the most unique architectural
and cultural construct in Europe. Thus, its historical and cultural
significance far transcends its local importance due to its extraordinary
level of preservation.