Historical Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian

World Heritage Research

Discover scientific research and academic studies that deepen our understanding of Historical Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian from its history and significance to its conservation, management, and contemporary challenges.

• The Yugoslav Peoples Before 1918

  A historical analysis reveals that the division of the Roman Empire in AD 285, initiated by Emperor Diocletian, established a lasting cultural and religious boundary in the Balkan peninsula. This boundary, running from the Adriatic coast to the confluence of the Drina and Sava rivers, separated regions that later adopted Eastern Orthodox Christianity (Cyrillic alphabet) from those adhering to Roman Catholicism (Latin alphabet). The study traces this divide's enduring influence on the Yugoslav peoples, despite subsequent historical changes like Ottoman occupation. It highlights how Diocletian's legacy, including his palace in Split, shaped the cultural landscape of the region, offering insights into modern differences between Western (Slovenes and Croats) and Eastern (Serbs and Macedonians) Yugoslav groups.

  Singleton, F. (2025). The Yugoslav Peoples Before 1918. The Economy of Yugoslavia, 40–46. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003617723-3

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• Ghetto

  The term 'ghetto' has evolved significantly, transitioning from its original 17th-century use to describe the Jewish community's voluntary segregation within the Palace of Diocletian in Split, Croatia, to a modern symbol of socio-economic stigma and tourist gentrification. This study demonstrates how the concept of a ghetto shifted from a physical and symbolic boundary defined by the palace's walls to an invisible border tied to socioeconomic conditions post-World War II, ultimately becoming a 'Disneyfied' space dominated by tourism. The research analyzes aerial drawings, photographs, and historical documentation spanning centuries, highlighting the transformation of the site's social meaning without altering its location. It reveals how the ghetto's identity has been redefined from voluntary Jewish habitation to a tourist-attracting, gentrified area, stripping it of its original inhabitants' narrative.

  Peraica, A. (2024). Ghetto. Physical and Symbolic Borders and Boundaries and How They Unfold in Space, 174–189. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003354802-14

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• Late antique transformations and the end of the ancient city

  The Late Antique period (fourth to seventh centuries CE) marked profound transformations in the Roman Empire, reshaping urban defense, elite residences, and imperial patronage. Key discoveries include the evolution of urban design, as seen in Rome's Aurelian Walls and the Palace of Diocletian at Split, alongside the emergence of Constantinople as a new world capital blending Greco-Roman heritage with Christian influences. The study examines these changes through architectural projects, such as basilicas and baths in Rome and Jerusalem, revealing shifts in hierarchical concepts and stylistic trends. By analyzing sites like Athens, Ephesus, Jerash, London, Rome, and Constantinople, the research highlights the complex fate of ancient cities during this transitional era.

  Gates, C., & Goldman, A. (2024). Late antique transformations and the end of the ancient city. Ancient Cities, 513–536. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429278815-31

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• Relief plates from the baptistery in Split: current issues in its study

  Research on the relief plates from Split's baptistery reveals that six marble slabs, likely originating from either the Split cathedral or St. Peter and Moses church, depict significant figures with historical and liturgical implications. The study identifies two prominent candidates for the seated figure—a ruler—Croatian king Peter Kreshimir IV or king Dimitar Zvonimir, reflecting the political dynamics of the 11th century. Notably, the standing figure's missing scroll and erased inscription suggest alterations over time, possibly linked to changing liturgical practices amid shifting Byzantine and Western influences. Stylistic analysis further connects these plates to regional architectural trends, offering insights into the cultural and historical context of the period.

  Voronova, A. (2024). Relief plates from the baptistery in Split: current issues in its study. St. Tikhons’ University Review. Series V. Christian Art, 53, 9–35. https://doi.org/10.15382/sturv202453.9-35

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• Überlegungen zum vermeintlichen Aufenthalt von Galla Placidia im Diokletianpalast in Split

  Historical records suggest that Galla Placidia, a prominent figure of the Roman Empire, may have stayed at the Palace of Diocletian in Split during 424/425 AD. This paper challenges such claims by analyzing Philostorgius' account of Theodosius II's military campaign route through Pannonia and Illyricum. By scrutinizing the logistics of this unusual journey, the study questions the feasibility of Galla Placidia's prolonged sojourn in Split. The research employs a critical examination of historical sources to assess the plausibility of her presence, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of late Roman history.

  Sanader, M. (2024). Überlegungen zum vermeintlichen Aufenthalt von Galla Placidia im Diokletianpalast in Split. Acta Classica Universitatis Scientiarum Debreceniensis, 59, 141–154. https://doi.org/10.22315/acd/2023/11

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• Diocletian’s Palace, Restoration of the S-E Quadrant

  Recent restoration efforts at Diocletian’s Palace have uncovered significant insights into the 4th-century dome of the former mausoleum. Precise architectural recording revealed deformations suggesting possible alterations to the original construction method. Additionally, archaeological research beneath 13th-century floor slabs uncovered preserved late antique opus sectile marmoreum with geometric patterns and tesserae from dome mosaics. The study also traces the evolution of restoration methods applied to the mausoleum over the past century and a half, highlighting advancements in conservation techniques. Current work focuses on conserving the southern wall and SE tower, aiming to present its history comprehensively.

  Bužančić, R. T. (2023). Diocletian’s Palace, Restoration of the S-E Quadrant. Thematic Proceedings of the International Scientific Conference Educational Programs — the Future of World Cultural and Natural Heritage, 90–109. https://doi.org/10.18485/arh_whc50.2023.ch4

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• Understanding the Complexity of Assessing Cultural Heritage’s Economic Impact on the Economic Sustainability of a Tourism Destination: The Case of Split, Croatia

  Assessing the economic impact of cultural heritage on tourism destinations is inherently complex and requires tailored approaches for each site. This study highlights that no single method universally suits the valuation process, emphasizing the unique characteristics of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Split’s Historical Complex with the Palace of Diocletian. Through critical analysis of existing assessment techniques and sustainable development indicators, researchers found that while previous efforts aimed to standardize valuations, each site demands a customized approach. This insight has significant implications for UNESCO’s management guidelines and the economic sustainability of heritage tourism destinations.

  Matečić, I., Kesar, O., & Ferjanić Hodak, D. (2022). UNDERSTANDING THE COMPLEXITY OF ASSESSING CULTURAL HERITAGE’S ECONOMIC IMPACT ON THE ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY OF A TOURISM DESTINATION: THE CASE OF SPLIT, CROATIA. Ekonomska Misao I Praksa, 31(2), 639–662. https://doi.org/10.17818/emip/2022/2.14

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