Croatia Forum

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Split - Spectacular celebrations of the 1700 anniversary of the city

Throughout this entire year the citizens of the City of Split will be officially celebrating the jubilee 1700th anniversary of the existence of their city, that is the great anniversary of the most famous symbol of Split, the Diocletian palace from which the city rose forth. Let us remind you, that the Diocletian palace is a cultural monument under UNESCO protection. To ensure that festivities will be at the grand level that this anniversary demands, the Tourist board of the City of Split and the City of Split have developed a whole year spectacular program which will tell the world it is the Year of the Palace. This structure, built at the end of the 3rd century, is one of the most important pieces of late antic architecture and one of the best preserved monuments of Roman architecture in the world. The Palace was constructed as a luxurious summer residence for the Emperor Diocletian and was positioned with the boundaries of a Roman military camp and with two main streets was divided into four parts. After 1700 years of coexistence, Split residents are getting ready for four significant presentation of their Palace in the world – in Budapest, Krakow, Graz and New York. The rich cultural heritage will be presented at 11 international fairs. In February, in the Split hotel Park, an exhibition “Split 1700” was opened, presenting monographics of the Palace and the city, while throughout the year numerous other events significant to the city will also be presented. Beginning with the “Split krnjevala” – a carnival where guests are treated to songs by Dalmatian klapa (acapello groups), parades of marching girls and performances by numerous folkloric groups. Not to mention the traditional Split manifestations like the Split summer festival which is being held for the 51st time this year and which will take place with a celebratory spirit. The main ceremony will be held on the 29th of July – with the performance “Noc Dioklecijana” (Diocletian’s Night) when a thematic evening will be organised – where all will become better acquainted with old Roman culture. Namely, all guests in Split will be able to taste ancient Roman specialties and enjoy in a costume parade.

Published in Croatia-Newsletter