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The Dragons of Diocletian: Myth and Marble in Split

1.0 km77 min7 stops

What awaits you on this Red Thread tour

Step into a world where ancient imperial history and modern fantasy collide. On this immersive walking tour, you will explore the labyrinthine streets of Split, a city built entirely within the walls of a 4th-century Roman emperor's retirement palace. Discover how these ancient stones inspired the grand, slave-owning city of Meereen for the global phenomenon Game of Thrones. We will peel back the digital CGI to reveal the genuine, blood-soaked, and awe-inspiring history of Emperor Diocletian, the medieval refugees who claimed his halls, and the modern locals who live inside a pop-culture monument.

Itinerary

1

TOUR START

Riva Promenade

The bustling waterfront promenade that serves as the modern living room of Split, masking the ancient Roman walls of Diocletian's Palace.

0.25 km • 4 min
2

STOP 2

Vestibul

A monumental circular hall with an open roof, originally the grand entrance to the imperial apartments, famously used for a brutal ambush scene in Game of Thrones.

Vestibul

Pic by Jules Verne Times Two on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

0.11 km • 2 min
3

STOP 3

Ethnographic Museum Split

Housed in the former Convent of St. Clare built into the Roman walls, this museum's terrace offers sweeping vantage points of the palace layout.

0.34 km • 5 min
4

STOP 4

Papalićeva Street

A narrow, atmospheric medieval street that served as the gritty backdrop for the Meereenese slave rebellion and the iconic 'Kill the Masters' graffiti.

0.04 km • 1 min
5

STOP 5

Dominisova Street

A labyrinthine passage used for the tense Unsullied patrols, showcasing the stark contrast between Roman military grid planning and medieval urban chaos.

Dominisova Street

Pic by Jocelyn Erskine-Kellie on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

0.10 km • 1 min
6

STOP 6

Golden Gate

The monumental northern entrance to the palace, representing the pinnacle of Roman defensive architecture and the inspiration for Meereen's grand gates.

Golden Gate

Pic by lienyuan lee on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

0.12 km • 2 min
7

END

Strossmayer Park (Đardin)

A lush green park just outside the palace walls, which served as the bustling base camp for the Game of Thrones production and extras.

Strossmayer Park (Đardin)

Pic by Andrzej Harassek on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Where the tour takes place

Starting point and rough tour area – the exact route unfolds in the app.

Good to know

  • Ideal for Pop-culture enthusiasts, history buffs, architecture lovers, and urban explorers fascinated by the intersection of fantasy and reality.
  • Best time Late afternoon, when the Adriatic sun casts long shadows over the ancient stone, perfectly capturing the moody atmosphere of Meereen.
  • Footwear Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. The ancient limestone streets are incredibly smooth and can be slippery.
  • Museum Access Bring a few euros for the Ethnographic Museum to access the spectacular terrace view.
  • Crowds Early morning or late afternoon is best to avoid the massive cruise ship crowds in the narrow streets.
  • Hydration Carry water, especially in summer. The stone walls trap the Mediterranean heat.
  • Respect the Locals Remember that this palace is a living neighborhood. Keep voices down in residential alleys.
  • Your voucher You can redeem your voucher for two years from purchase. Once redeemed, you have 14 days of access and can enjoy the tour as often as you like during that time.

Your guide

Hannah Clarke
Audio sample
0:000:00

Hannah Clarke

  • Pop Culture & Media Landscapes
  • Southern England

Pop culture scout. Leads to filming locations, music hotspots, and fan cultures – where fiction and reality touch.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the tour after buying?

You see your voucher code right after payment – and you also receive it at the email address you entered at checkout. Redeem that code in the Red Thread app; that's where the tour starts.

When does my access start?

Only when you redeem the code in the app, not at purchase. From redemption you have 14 days of access to the tour.

Do I need the Red Thread app?

Yes. The free Red Thread app turns your tour into a vivid experience: with audio, a map, and thoughtful prompts, it guides you from place to place in an engaging and entertaining way. It's available free for iOS and Android.

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