A view over Split’s Old town; the Diocletian Palace
This week’s Photo Of The Week was taken in the Old Town of Split, Croatia; otherwise known as the Diocletian Palace.
With 1,700 years of history, a UNESCO heritage site at its core, direct access to Croatia’s islands and National Parks and a plethora of adventure activities and restaurants, Split really has everything you could want in a destination. Yet in many ways people have traditionally thought of Split as Dubrovnik’s poor relation; a destination that isn’t worth much more than an overnight stopover. But I’m happy to tell you that Split is on the rise and with over 100 tour operators lining its bay; offering everything from walking tours of the city’s Diocletian Palace to dive courses in the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic you’d be foolish to omit Split from your Croatian itinerary – plus it’s on Easyjet’s schedule making it an achievable European weekend getaway destination!
The UNESCO protected old town and Roman-era Diocletian Palace (where this picture was taken) is the undeniable highlight of Split. Construction began on the 1,700 year-old Diocletian Palace (essentially a retirement home for Emperor Diocletian) in 293 AD and the area is so much more than merely a palace or a museum. Today it is the central hub of Split and a living museum with a dizzying array of maze-like cobbled alleyways, restaurants, bars, boutique hotels and artisan shops. If you’re directionally challenged then you may wish to hire one of the hordes of walking guides available at the entrances and major sites within the old town. Alternatively, and especially if you’re armed with google maps, then the palace is a great place to just wander and soak in the atmosphere.
If you’re planning a trip to Croatia then make sure to check out our Croatia page for more hints, tips and inspiration.