Historic center of Split

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Split, the second-largest city in Croatia, represents a unique blend of ancient history and modern Mediterranean life. The city developed around the monumental palace of the Roman emperor Diocletian, built in the early 4th century, which still forms its historical center. This impressive building, one of the best-preserved Roman palaces in the world, became the nucleus of a medieval city when, in the 7th century, the inhabitants of nearby Salona, fleeing the Avar and Slavic invasions, sought refuge within its walls. During the Middle Ages, Split evolved as an autonomous commune, initially under Byzantine and, from 1420, Venetian rule. During this period, the city became an important commercial and maritime center, serving as an intermediary in trade between the Ottoman Empire and Venice. The city statute from 1312 reflects the developed legal culture and communal self-government. After the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797, Split went through periods of Austrian and French rule. Notably significant changes took place in the early 19th century when the city walls were demolished and the Split Riva was built, today one of the city's symbols. Under Austrian rule in the second half of the 19th century, the city underwent significant modernization, especially after the construction of the railway line in 1877. The 20th century was marked by rapid growth and industrialization, particularly after World War II. The city expanded with new residential areas, and shipbuilding and other industries developed. In 1979, the historic core of Split was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognizing the exceptional value of its cultural and historical heritage. Today, Split is an important economic, university, and tourist center. Its historic center, with Diocletian's Palace at its heart, represents a living monument where history continually intertwines with everyday life. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, which includes numerous churches, palaces, and museums, as well as its vibrant cultural scene, sporting achievements, and the distinctive Mediterranean mentality of its residents. Split is also the birthplace of many significant historical figures, most notably Marko Marulić, the father of Croatian literature. The city preserves a rich tradition of klapa singing, which is inscribed on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage, as well as the Mediterranean way of life, evident in lively markets, outdoor cafes, and evening strolls along the Riva. With around 180,000 inhabitants, Split is today an administrative, economic, and cultural center of Dalmatia. Its port remains one of the most important on the eastern Adriatic coast, connecting the mainland with the Dalmatian islands. The city has successfully developed as a tourist destination, attracting visitors with its unique combination of historical monuments, Mediterranean atmosphere, and modern urban life.

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