Split

In 305 AD, the Roman Emperor Diocletian began the construction of his massive palace in what is now Split, Croatia. The palace was intended as a retirement residence for the emperor, who was one of the few Roman emperors to abdicate voluntarily. The construction of the palace marked a significant architectural and historical event, showcasing the might and sophistication of the late Roman Empire. The complex included fortified walls, watchtowers, and lavish residential quarters, making it a remarkable monument of the time.

On July 21, 365 AD, a massive earthquake centered near Crete sent shockwaves across the Eastern Mediterranean. The seismic event caused significant damage to the city of Split, then a prominent Roman center in Dalmatia. This earthquake is noted not just for its power but also for the resulting tsunami that affected the surrounding coastline. The event caused damage to infrastructure and affected the social and economic functions of the region. Records indicate rebuilding efforts took place across affected areas, shaping the future development patterns of Split.

With the outbreak of World War I, Split, part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the time, faced considerable changes. On August 1, 1914, the war dramatically affected the daily lives of its inhabitants. The economic strains and mobilization efforts led to shortages and hardships for the civilian population. The war also influenced political attitudes and movements within the city, ultimately contributing to the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and affected the future political landscape of Split as part of the newly formed states in the region after the war.

During World War II, on April 10, 1941, Split was occupied by Italian forces following the Axis invasion of Yugoslavia. The occupation led to significant changes in the city's administration and daily life. The local population experienced hardship under the occupation, with restrictions on freedom and the imposition of Italian cultural influences. Resistance movements formed in response to the occupation, and Split became a site of significant partisan activity. The occupation lasted until 1943, when the Italian armistice prompted a change in control.

On May 20, 1979, the historic center of Split, with the Palace of Diocletian, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Palace is one of the most important Roman architectural and cultural heritage sites on the Adriatic coast. It was originally built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian as his retirement residence and is a significant example of late Roman architecture. The designation has contributed to Split becoming a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world to its ancient walls and historic charm.

On June 25, 1991, Croatia declared its independence from the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. This event marked the beginning of the Croatian War of Independence. Split, being a significant city in Croatia, was involved in events related to the war. The city was affected by the naval blockade imposed by the Yugoslav People's Army and witnessed several incidents during the conflict. The war lasted until 1995 and resulted in significant political and social changes in the region, with Split playing a key role as a regional center.

On November 12, 1995, the Dayton Agreement was initialed, effectively ending the Croatian War of Independence. Split stood as a critical logistical and humanitarian hub during the war, providing shelter and support for displaced persons. The end of the conflict marked a period of reconstruction and reconciliation for the area. The city underwent significant rebuilding and transformation efforts, adapting its economy from wartime to peace. The conclusion of the war allowed Split to embark on a path towards stability and economic renewal.

The Split Summer Festival is an annual cultural event that began on June 5, 2003. It features a variety of performances including opera, theater, concerts, and dance, held at several venues throughout the historic city. The festival has become an important cultural event in Croatia, drawing international artists and audiences to Split. The goal of the festival is to promote the rich cultural heritage of Split and the arts. With its vibrant mix of performances, it has helped to boost the city's reputation as a cultural hub in the Mediterranean region.

On September 30, 2005, the city of Split hosted several games of the EuroBasket 2005 championship, a prestigious basketball tournament. Hosting the event was significant for Split as it showcased the city's capability to organize international sporting events, highlighting its modern sports facilities and infrastructure. The tournament drew basketball fans from across Europe to Split, enhancing its reputation as a sporting city and providing an economic boost through tourism and related activities. The successful hosting of EuroBasket 2005 helped promote sports culture in the region.

On March 11, 2020, the first confirmed case of COVID-19 was reported in Split. As the pandemic spread across the globe, Split, like many other cities, faced unprecedented challenges. Local authorities implemented various measures to curb the spread of the virus, including lockdowns, travel restrictions, and health guidelines. The pandemic had a significant impact on the local economy, particularly the tourism sector, which is a major source of income for the city. Split's healthcare facilities were also tested as they responded to the needs of the community.