From 32 BC until 480 AD, Salona was the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. It was also the birthplace of Roman Emperor Diocletian. This is why he built his retirement palace nearby in Spalatum which is today’s Split. If during your visit you hear lots of trumpets and fanfare near the Peristyle, then rush to see the emperor’s greeting. He emerges from his private quarters at the Vestibule and onto an elevated platform called the Protyron. He and the empress are surrounded by soldiers wearing centurion helmets, the traditional military headgear from 100 BC until 300 AD. The performance is brief but entertaining.
