Split War Bombing and Yugoslavia 20th Century Tour Local Guide

Join a local guide from Split on a walk through Diocletian's Palace, the retirement residence of the Roman Emperor Diocletian and the birthplace of the modern city. Discover how the Cold War, Yugoslavia, and the Yugoslav Wars shaped life in Croatia as it is today.

Learn the fascinating story of how the Croats lost their last native king, the legend of the "thousand-year curse," and how that story became intertwined with the bloody breakup of Yugoslavia.

Discover how both World War I and World War II transformed Split, from the once-poor neighborhoods within the palace walls to the city's social and political development.

Explore the history of Yugoslavia, Josip Broz Tito, the Cold War, and communism, and understand how they influenced Croatia's economy, society, and everyday life.

This unique walking tour connects over 2,000 years of history, from the Roman Empire to modern Croatia, helping you understand not only Split's past, but also the country and its people today

Itinerary

1. Grgur Ninski Statue · 10 min

   Learn about the arrival of the Croats, the new political order established at the end of World War I, why Yugoslavia was created, and why the Balkans have been marked by recurring conflict.

2. 10 min

   Who ruled Split during World War II, why the Allies bombed the city, and who the actual targets of the attacks were.

3. The Peristyle of Diocletian's Palace · 10 min

   What life in the city was like during the war, which buildings were destroyed and which were later rebuilt in the 2,000-year old square.

4. Split Synagogue · 20 min

   What happened to Split’s Jewish community during the occupation, what remained of the old library, and how the records and memories of the Jewish community in Split were burned.

5. 10 min

   The occupiers’ entry into the city did not go unopposed, as the Partisans launched a guerrilla resistance and eventually liberated Split. Let us explore historical photographs from the period of occupation and resistance.

6. Prokurative · 20 min

   Life in Yugoslavia was complex and often contradictory, depending on citizens’ political loyalty and ideological conformity. Learn about its economy and the political repression imposed by the totalitarian regime.

7. Riva Harbor · 10 min

   How did the political and social developments of the 20th century lead to the breakup of Yugoslavia, the bloody wars in Croatia, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the creation of an independent Croatian state?

What's included

• Walking tour of Split with the Local Licensed Guide
• Old photos of Split from guide's private collection
• Historical insights into Croatia's past
• Visit to Diocletian's Palace
• Local recommendations on what to see, eat, and do

Meeting point

Start time

11:00 · 19:00

End point

Languages

In-person guide: English

Travellers

• Adult (1–100)

Options

• Small Group Tourfrom €25

  Start time: 11:00 · 19:00

  In-person guide: English

Additional information

• Wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.