Peristyle
The Peristyle is the central square of Diocletian's Palace in Split, built around 300 AD by order of the Roman emperor Diocletian. The square was designed as an imperial ceremonial stage surrounded by a double row of Corinthian-style columns. It was here that the emperor would address the people on a loggia (the so-called protyron), while his subjects would kneel and obey the "living son of Jupiter" - Diocletian, who wanted to further emphasize his divine status with a monument the likes of which had never been seen in this region before.
The Peristyle was located at the intersection of the main Roman streets of the palace (cardo and decumanus), and from it one can access the most important parts of the palace: the imperial mausoleum (today's Cathedral of St. Domnius), the Temple of Jupiter, and the spacious basements that could be used to logistically manage life in the palace. The most interesting details of the Peristyle are related to the ancient Egyptian sphinxes. Diocletian brought as many as 12 sphinxes from Egypt, and one, carved from black granite during the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III, still stands proudly preserved in the square today. This sphinx, about 3,500 years old, is unusual because it ends in human hands, not lion paws, and holds a bowl for offerings, which is a very rare motif. Moreover, the ancient people of Split nicknamed it “Gorgon” from the legends, and over time it became a mystical symbol of the city. Much later, a wealthy American industrialist tried to buy it, but the people of Split proudly refused the offer. Today, the monument is under protection and a valuable archaeological gem.
The peristyle is framed on three sides by 24 granite columns, while construction materials, such as Egyptian granite, marble and Brač stone, were brought from various parts of the Empire, symbolizing the power of Rome. Above the main square were three statues: Diocletian, Jupiter and an unknown figure, while on the sides there were sphinxes, and the portico directly connected the imperial chambers and the public part of the palace.
The Protiron on the south side played a key role – it represented the imperial elevation and separated the private from the public part of the palace. The Temple of Jupiter was accessed from the west, and the Mausoleum of Diocletian from the east.
As Roman rule weakened over time and Christianity became dominant, the Peristyle lost its original imperial significance and slowly became the center of religious and city life. It was a square where trade, gatherings, social and religious ceremonies took place. It was surrounded by the noble palaces of the Split families Grisogono, Cipci and Skočibušić, which directly leaned against the antique columns and arches.
In the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, with decoration in new styles, the Peristyle gradually evolved into the city core. Another interesting fact – in 1929, a monument to Gregory of Nin was erected on the square, which was later removed by the occupying authorities and is now located at the Golden Gate of the palace.
Despite all the modifications over almost 1700 years, the Peristil has preserved its original features and remained an authentic stage of life. Today, it is a favorite place to gather, drink coffee and enjoy the unique ancient atmosphere. Thanks to its exceptional acoustics, opera performances and concerts are held here – such as the famous performance of Verdi’s “Aida” as part of the Split Summer Festival.
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