Stories of Diocletian offer a rich program based on the history, culture, and legacy of Emperor Diocletian and his palace in Split. Through interactive tours, historical reenactments, and educational activities, visitors have the opportunity to experience ancient Rome in an authentic way.

The event connects the past with the present, allowing encounters with Emperor Diocletian, insights into his life and reign, and a deeper understanding of the military, political, and cultural context of the Roman Empire. Stories of Diocletian provide a unique opportunity to explore the spirit of the Roman era and discover the heritage that Emperor Diocletian left in Split.

Diocletian Gala Evening Postponed Due to Weather Conditions. 

We hereby inform the public that the Diocletian Gala Evening, originally scheduled for September 10, despite great anticipation and extensive preparations, must be postponed due to renewed forecasts of unfavorable weather conditions. We emphasize that the project is fully prepared and, with its important charitable purpose, will take place in late spring 2026.

PROGRAM OF THE EVENT “STORIES OF DIOCLETIAN” 2025
(August 30 – September 1)
 

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September 10 (Wednesday), at 20.30
Peristyle Square
Diocletian’s Gala Evening – A Return to the Past for a Better Tomorrow
Ad meliora tempora
(Towards better times)

Peristyle will become the stage of an unforgettable spectacle – the charitable Diocletian’s Gala Evening. A fusion of classical music and modern arrangements, led by maestro Veton Marevci with orchestra and DJ Joe2Shine, will revive the spirit of Roman times in a unique musical and historical program. With Roman scenery and a humanitarian note in cooperation with the Association Together Against Cancer, this late-season event unites heritage, art, and solidarity in the very heart of Split.

August 30 (Saturday), at 12:00
Peristyle Square
"Being Priska" – A Tradition That Captivates
“Accipe vitam offers”
(Take everything life offers you)

Due to great interest and public enthusiasm, the program “Being Priska” will shine once again on the magnificent Peristyle in 2025. This collaboration between the Split Tourist Board and Dalmatinski portal has become a symbol of preserving the city’s rich history and an opportunity for citizens to experience the spirit of ancient Split in a unique way. At the heart of the celebration is a special chosen participant who takes on the role of Empress Priska. With the help of costume designers, stylists, and makeup artists, she will be dressed in an authentic costume, ready to shine in the full splendor of ancient elegance. Accompanied by Emperor Diocletian, she will create, before the audience on the Peristyle, a scene that evokes the grandeur and romance of the Roman era.

August 30 (Saturday), at 12:15 PM –
Starting in front of the TIC center at Peristyle
“Emperor's Tour”
“Exegi monumentum aere perennius”
(I have erected a monument more lasting than bronze)

Imagine a private audience with Emperor Diocletian! Accompanied by his Roman guard, the Emperor (tour guide) leads the group through Diocletian’s Palace, sharing stories of his reign, legacy, and values left to the city of Split. The registration for free tour takes place on August 28 and 29 at the TIC center on Peristyle. Capacity is limited to 20 participants.  The group gathers in front of the TIC, where Roman soldiers escort them to the Vestibule before the Emperor.

August 30 (Saturday), at 7:00 PM 
Peristyle Square
“Sapere aude – Dare to Know!”
“Non progredi est regredi”
(Not to advance is to retreat)

As you walk through the heart of Split, Emperor Diocletian himself, accompanied by 30 Roman soldiers, stops you and leads you to discover the secrets of his palace. This is exactly what the program Sapere aude offers: an interactive experience that turns history into a game and a spectacle.

Instead of merely listening to the past, participants become the main characters of the story. The emperor challenges them with questions, involves them in conversations, and reveals hidden details about the palace and the city, all with a touch of fun, surprises, and historical grandeur.

August 31 (Sunday), at 12:00 PM 
Peristyle Square
“I – the Emperor Diokles (I am Diocletian)”
“Tempora mutantur nos et mutamur i illis”
(Times change, and we change with them)

I – the Emperor Diokles offers visitors and locals the extraordinary opportunity to briefly become Emperor Diocletian and experience the city through the lens of his imperial history on the magnificent Peristyle. 

Under the expert guidance of Associate Professor Davor Pavić from the Academy of Arts in Split (UMAS), a selected participant undergoes preparation that includes elements of acting, public performance, and historical reconstruction. Wearing authentic costumes and amid historical scenery, they take on the role of the emperor and convincingly bring to life moments from the time when Split was the center of Roman power.

August 31 (Sunday), at 4:00 PM – “Pusti me proć”
Passage near the Temple of Jupiter
“Pass(word)… shall I!?”
“Potius sero quam numquam”
(Better late than never)

In the very heart of Diocletian’s Palace, in the alley aptly named “Pusti me proć” (“Let me pass”), visitors encounter an exciting challenge. Six to ten Roman soldiers form a “living wall” through which no one can pass without the correct password! On a stone platform, next to a sphinx, the commander of the guard welcomes guests and poses a question that holds the key to entering the palace’s heart.

Led by a professional actor, the program is conducted in English and amusingly reveals historical facts about Split. When tourists or locals try to guess the password without knowing the answer, a series of humorous and educational moments unfolds. The real game begins as participants, amid laughter and historical discovery, often use the internet and other platforms to find the solution!

August 31 (Sunday), at 6:00 PM 
Peristyle Square
“Harpastum” – The World of Ancient Sports
“Certamen facit magistros”
(Competition creates masters)

 For this year’s Diocletian Stories, the ancient Roman game Harpastum will be presented for the first time, a sports-competitive program combining history, fun, and action. This historical game, beloved by the Romans and used as a form of military training, will be adapted for modern audiences while preserving its fundamental rules.

Four competing teams, each with five players, will face off in two semifinal matches and a grand final. Each match lasts 20 minutes and offers a burst of energy, tactical play, and physical strength. Harpastum can be compared to modern football or rugby, with emphasis on contact, strategy, and determination in the fight for dominance.

September 1 (Monday), at 8:00 PM 
Peristyle Square
“Togas and Tetrarsi” – Past, Present, and Future in a Unique Artistic Story
“Memini ergo sum”
(I remember, therefore I am)

“Behold them, conquerors of the world, the toga-clad race of Romans! – Augustus”. Following the spectacular success of its premiere performance, Togas and Tetrarsi returns in 2025, even more lavish and powerful!

On the Peristyle, with expertly designed lighting, precise musical numbers, and numerous visual transformations, history is turned into an unforgettable artistic experience. More than 60 participants contribute to the spectacle, providing emotion, unmatched aesthetics, and innovation, while the audience becomes part of the story, as each scene carries strong symbolism and energy.