Diocletian's Palace

This is the heart of Split and the building around which the city was created. Over 9 ½ acres, the palace is so large that it has four main entrances. It was built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in 305AD, and although extremely modified over the years, still remains in the center of the action. Born to slaves in 245AD, Diocletian ultimately climbed the army ranks to become Roman emperor in 284AD. Known for many victories during his reign, he put an end to 50 years of chaos in the Roman Empire. He reformed the financial system, rebuilt the army, secured the borders, and introduced rule by four men instead of one (tetrarchy). Then he did what no other emperor had even tried to do – he took voluntary retirement. He built this opulent palace as his retirement home and spent his golden years here tending to his garden. He even refused to return to government when begged by his failing successors. Over the years a city grew up around the palace with various authorities using it as a seat from which to rule; from Croatian kings, to Hungarians and of course the Venetians. What remains today is a mix of the old and new, as various additions and modifications have of course been made over the last 1700 years.
If you've ever been to Vegas, these guys made it feel like we were walking through Ceasar's Palace.


This shot is taken during our climb up the bell tower.  If you blow it up and look out the right arch you'll see our apartment way in the distance.