Walking Tour of Split with a History Professor

Overview

Explore the centre of Split on a 2 hour 20 minute guided tour led by a history professor and local guide. This itinerary allows you to explore the city's evolution, from its Roman roots to Venetian, Ottoman, and Napoleonic influences. The tour begins on the Riva promenade and passes through the cellars to reach the ancient main square, offering views of the cathedral and medieval palaces. You will pass through the street considered the narrowest in the world and can follow local tradition by touching the toe of the statue of Gregory of Nin to make a wish. The walk continues through a modern main street and square, ending at the main medieval square. Throughout the journey, the guide shares anecdotes about local life, legends, and information about filming locations used in Game of Thrones.

Itinerary

1. Riva Harbor

   We are starting our tour on Riva promenade, right next to model of Palace. Riva is where local population spend their time drinking coffee, enjoying the sun and its the place where most of the public life happens.

   · 15 min

2. Diocletian Palace Substructures

   The basement halls of Diocletian's Palace (more accurately known as the substructures), are one of the world's best-preserved complexes from the era of classical antiquity. This vast space is one of the key reasons why the historical centre of Split was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1979.

   · 15 min

3. The Peristyle of Diocletian's Palace

   Peristyle, as the central square of the Palace, intended for the Emperor Diocletian celebrated as the living son of Jupiter, finds its place among many temples. The Emperor would appear under the architrave of the central part of Protyron, and his subjects would approach him, kneeling down, kissing the hem of his scarlet cloak, or they would fall in front of him, their entire body to the ground.

   · 10 min

4. The Vestibule (The Rotonda), is the first section of the imperial corridor in Diocletian's Palace that led from the Peristyle, which was once the formal entrance to the imperial apartments. Built up to the beginning of the 4th century, as the original part of the ancient palace. It is a circular hall, once topped with a dome, 17 meters in height and 12 meters in diameter. Built as a grand meeting hall only for and selected audiences such as ambassadors.

   · 10 min

5. Cathedral of Saint Domnius

   Roman temple, mausoleum and a church. Depending on how you look at it. Visit only from outside (entrance is not included) but detailed informations willl be given in case guests want to visit it after the tour.

   · 20 min· Admission not included

6. Temple of Jupiter

   Jupiter is the god of the sky and thunder. Supreme god in ancient Roman religion and mythology. During the history, the Temple was converted into a baptistery dedicated to St. John the Baptist. Visit only from outside. On our way to next location (Golden gate), we will walk through a small street, placed between the ancient temple and medieval building. Local people believe this is the narrowest street in the world. Its name is "Let me pass street".

   · 10 min· Admission not included

7. The Golden Gate

   The Golden Gate or "the Northern Gate", is one of the four principal Roman gates into the old town of Split. Built as part of Diocletian's Palace, it served as the main gate through which the Emperor entered the complex and was elaborately decorated to mark its status. Over the course of the Middle Ages, the gate was sealed off and lost its columns and statuary. It was reopened and repaired in modern times and now serves as a tourist attraction.

   · 15 min

8. Statue de Grgur Ninski

   The 8.5-metre (28 ft)tall statue of Gregory of Nin by Ivan Meštrović in Split is a busy tourist site in the town, which the toe of the statue shows. Rubbing the statue's toe is said to bring good luck. The toe has been worn smooth and shiny as a result.

   · 10 min

9. Marmontova Ulica

   Although a conqueror, Napoleon's marshal Marmont is responsible for the urbanisation of Dalmatian cities, in return the citizens of Split have named their most beautiful street after him.

   · 10 min

10. Prokurative

    Republic Square is a large, open square surrounded on three sides by a collection of elaborate neo-Renaissance buildings known as the Prokurative.

    · 10 min

11. Fruit's Square (Trg Brace Radic)

    The last spot of our tour. Small and beautifull square where ladies used to sell fruits. You will hear about important monuments on the square such as Marko Marulić (father of Croatian literature) statue. Its also perfect location for stories about Croatian history and gastronomy.

    · 15 min

Meeting point

What to know before you go

• Assistance animals are permitted.
• Public transport is available nearby.
• Suitable for all fitness levels.
• The group is limited to a maximum of 17 participants.
• Confirmation is immediate upon booking.

Travelers

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation for a full refund at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure date.

• This activity may be cancelled in case of bad weather.

Who is it for?

• Travellers interested in Roman and medieval history
• Fans of the Game of Thrones series
• People looking for a tour accessible to all fitness levels

What makes it different

• Led by a professional history professor
• Comprehensive itinerary covering Roman, medieval, and modern periods

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

Product code: 419685P1

Activity offered by Split Walking Tour with History Professor via Viator.