Ancient passageway to Diocletian’s cellars uncovered in Split

Diocletian’s palace in Split

SPLIT, 23 June 2025 – An exciting new archaeological discovery has been made in the heart of Split during the ongoing renovation of Hrvojeva Street.

While searching for a 17th-century tower believed to have been demolished during the Ottoman threat, archaeologists uncovered something entirely unexpected – a long-buried guard passage, HRT reports.

Hidden for over 500 years, the passage connects Hrvojeva Street directly to the famous cellars of Diocletian’s Palace.

The find has shed new light on the inner workings and rhythm of daily life during Roman times.

The ancient corridor, located in the eastern wall of the palace, had been buried when towers were torn down and walls reinforced to protect the city during the Ottoman incursions.

The discovery came as part of a larger effort to restore the palace vaults and improve Hrvojeva Street.

“It is completely dark on the other side of these walls today, with only the occasional pigeon for company. But in the time of the emperor, this space was bustling with activity,” said Vesna Bulić Baketić, Director of the City Museum of Split.

“We are uncovering every inch of Diocletian’s Palace – original walls and even this Roman staircase leading out, which tells us so much about practical daily life and the construction of the palace itself.”

Archaeological research is part of a wider conservation effort to preserve the palace’s perimeter walls and other historical remains. According to Jasna Jerkov, Head of the Department for the Old Town and Heritage, this discovery highlights the importance of expanded research, particularly around the southern rectangular tower of the eastern wall.

Although the original tower – later owned by the Ciprianis noble family – has yet to be located, the passage itself is offering new insights into the use of this part of the palace throughout history.

“The passage provided access to the tower and also connected the cellars of Diocletian’s Palace with stairs leading to the upper floors and the emperor’s private quarters,” explained Nebojša Cingeli, lead archaeologist on the project.

(Screenshot/HRT)

“What we know is that the bishop later moved into the emperor’s quarters, and the eastern part became the bishop’s garden. This passage may have played an important role in that transformation.”

Until now, the palace cellars had only one entrance and exit. The discovery of this hidden corridor has both practical and historical significance.

It will now remain permanently open for visitors, serving as both a safety measure and a captivating piece of the city’s layered history.