the palace

Unique Way to Experience Diocletian’s Palace: What to Expect from Diocletians Dream VR Museum?

When visitors step into Diocletians Dream VR Museum, they start a unique journey that takes them back in time to 305 AD. This immersive experience brings the ancient world of Diocletian’s Palace to life in unique and interesting ways. 

Stepping Into History

In Diocletians Dream, history comes alive. As you put on your VR headset, you’ll be ‘transported’ back to 305 AD, during the time of the Roman Empire. You’ll find yourself standing in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it once was. This isn’t a passive history lesson; it’s an opportunity to walk the palace’s corridors, explore its hidden chambers, and witness the grandeur of ancient Rome firsthand.

Visitor Testimonials 

But don’t just take our word for it. Our visitors have shared their experiences:

“This was our first virtual reality experience, and it was incredible. The headset technology and virtual experience were fantastic. In addition, The story of Diocletian and Palace were very interesting. Having spent considerable time within the Palace walls over several visits, the virtual tour provided a visual and perspective not seen before—that is, what the Palace actually would have looked like in 2nd-3rd century AD. The experience is well worth the visit and price. The only downside for us is the show only lasts 15 minutes, and we wish the experience was longer. We highly recommend Diocletian’s Dream, and will visit them again if and when given the chance.” – Brian Garavalia

“A wonderful experience! After walking around the city, you then get to see how the palace truly looked hundreds of years ago. A great story is told and you are transported back in time. The owner worked with historians and museums to ensure it was historically accurate, so attention to detail is amazing. Highly recommend this experience if you are in Split.” – Tayla Dunstan

Read more testimonials on our Google Business Profile and Trip Advisor.

Plan Your Visit

Booking Online: To ensure availability, we recommend booking your tickets online through our website.

Pricing: Our VR experience is priced at 12 EUR. Children under 14 years old and students enjoy a special rate.

Opening Hours: Diocletian’s Dream is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. However, please note that opening hours may vary, so we recommend checking our Google Business profile for the most up-to-date information.

Ready to step back in time and explore the wonders of Diocletian’s Palace? Reserve your place by booking online now! Don’t miss this chance to experience history like never before.

At Diocletians Dream, we’re dedicated to creating memories that last a lifetime.

Diocletian's Palace

Cultural Treasures: Top 5 Must-Visit Museums in Split

When exploring the historic city of Split, Croatia, one cannot help but be impressed by its rich cultural heritage. From ancient palace walls to vibrant markets, the city’s museums stand as gateways to its captivating past and diverse heritage. Today, we’re writing you about the top 5 museums that every visitor should make a point to explore.

1. Archaeological Museum

This museum is the oldest museum institution in Croatia. It was founded in 1820, following a visit to Dalmatia by the Habsburg emperor Francis I. It is home to an impressive collection that spans centuries. From Roman artifacts to medieval treasures, this museum offers an insight into the city’s deep-rooted history and its significance in the broader Mediterranean context.

2. Croatian Maritime Museum

This is your place to be if you would like to discover the maritime soul of Split. With exhibits ranging from ancient seafaring vessels to modern navigation technology, this museum offers a fascinating journey through Croatia’s maritime prowess and its intimate connection with the sea.

3. Gallery of Fine Arts

Art enthusiasts will find comfort at the Gallery of Fine Arts, where a diverse collection of Croatian and international artwork is displayed. Wander through halls adorned with paintings, sculptures, and installations that encapsulate the evolution of artistic expression through the ages.

4. Ethnographic Museum

Experience the traditions and lifestyles of Croatia’s diverse regions at the Ethnographic Museum. Here, intricate folk costumes, traditional crafts, and cultural artifacts come together to tell the stories of Croatia’s communities, weaving a vibrant tapestry of heritage.

5. Diocletians Dream VR Museum

While not a traditional museum, Diocletians Dream VR Museum offers a unique and immersive journey through history. Step into the virtual realm to witness Diocletian’s Palace as it stood in 305 AD, experiencing the magnificence of ancient Rome through cutting-edge technology.

Whether you’re drawn to ancient history, maritime technology, artistic expressions, cultural background, or innovative experiences, Split’s museums offer a kaleidoscope of insights into the city’s past and present. These cultural gems not only educate but also inspire an appreciation for the multifaceted heritage that defines this enchanting Croatian destination.

Split, Croatia

Exploring Split Beyond Diocletian’s Palace

A City of Enchanting Diversity

Welcome to Split, a city that amazes visitors with its enchanting mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. While Diocletian’s Palace stands as the crown jewel, there’s so much more to discover beyond its ancient walls. Get ready for all the hidden treasures that make Split a must-visit destination.

Wander the Charming Streets

As you venture beyond the palace, be prepared to wander through Split’s charming little streets lined with historic and modern buildings. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of Varoš or just enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Riva promenade.

Vibrant Markets and Local Spots

Step into the heart of local life by visiting Split’s vibrant markets. The Green Market offers an array of fresh produce and local delicacies, while the Fish Market provides a glimpse into the city’s maritime heritage. To experience true spirit of Split and Dalmatia, discover many hidden cafes and taverns in narrow streets, where you can savor traditional Dalmatian cuisine and mingle with friendly locals. 

Relax on Beautiful Beaches

Split’s stunning coastline attracts beach lovers to enjoy the Mediterranean sun. Head to Bačvice Beach for a fun-filled day of sandy shores and refreshing swims. For a quieter escape, seek out the secluded beaches of Marjan Hill, like Kašjuni or Bene beaches.

Time Travel in Historical Landmarks

Beyond Diocletian’s Palace, Split boasts a plethora of historical landmarks waiting to be explored. Admire the impressive Cathedral of St. Domnius, climb the Bell Tower for breathtaking views, and discover the ancient Peristyle Square. Each monument offers a glimpse into different chapters of Split’s rich history. If you would like to experience Split in an unique way, don’t miss out on visiting Diocletians Dream, a VR museum that will let you experience Diocletian’s Palace as it was in 305 AD. 

Embrace Nature in Marjan Hill

Escape the urban bustle and find peace in the Marjan Hill. This natural park is a haven for hikers, joggers, and nature enthusiasts. Follow the scenic trails to reach hilltop viewpoints, ancient chapels, and hidden coves. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and connecting with nature.

Local Culture and Art

Explore the local arts scene by visiting Split’s museums and galleries. The Meštrović Gallery displays the works of Croatia’s renowned sculptor Ivan Meštrović, while the Split City Museum offers insights into the city’s rich history.

Day Trips to Nearby Islands

No visit to Split would be complete without exploring the stunning nearby islands. Take a ferry to Hvar, Brač, or Vis, and discover their unique charm and landscapes. From sandy beaches to beautiful vineyards, these islands promise an unforgettable getaway. 

Hvar Island, Croatia

Dusk in Diocletian’s City

As the sun sets over Diocletian’s Palace, the city transforms into a vibrant night scene. Enjoy live music at the open-air bars, enjoy the nightlife, and witness the palace’s beauty under the moonlight. The magic of Split continues long after the day’s adventures.

Riva in Split, Croatia

The Spirit of Split

Beyond Diocletian’s Palace lies a city full of diversity and enchantment. Split’s charming streets, vibrant markets, beautiful beaches, and historical landmarks provide a lot of unforgettable experiences. From discovering local culture to connecting with nature, there’s something for everyone in this Croatian gem.

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Learning from the Past: Why Visit Museums?

The history of humanity is what museums and galleries primarily shed light on. And even though no museum can give us the whole picture, there are many lessons we can learn from the past by visiting them.

There are many reasons why we should include visiting museums on the list of activities when visiting a new city or a new country, and today, we are writing you about some of the reasons as well as some of the most interesting museums in Croatia.

Museums collect and display significant cultural, artistic, historical, or scientific artifacts. Simply put, museums help to educate, inspire, and connect people.

Education

Museums educate visitors through informal learning, which is an unstructured and spontaneous educational experience. This type of learning happens all the time.

Interacting with museum exhibits and information is a fun and engaging way for both children and adults to participate in an informal educational experience to learn more about a place’s culture, tradition, or history.

In the future, museums and other cultural institutions will continue to play an important role in the education of future generations. Institutions around the world are doing their part to pass down knowledge, from creating exhibitions for children to teaching children in a quasi-classroom setting.

Inspiration

Museums evoke existential reactions only available through witnessing something extraordinary, from the awe-inspiring to the surprising.

Inspiring experiences frequently motivate people to take action in their lives and do something creative or meaningful. Reading books, watching movies, and visiting museums are all excellent ways to be inspired. However, none of these can help communities connect as well as museums.

Connections

Many museum visitors say their main reason for going is to spend time with family or friends. Museums, on the other hand, bring together more than just friends and family. Museums across the country are transforming into community gathering places by hosting concerts, conferences, and other events.

Technology and Innovation

The traditional meaning of a museum has been challenged as a result of technological advancements over the last two decades. Museums are being transformed by modern technology from places of looking and learning to places of interaction, participation, and engagement.

Must-visit Museums in Croatia

There are many museums in Croatia that are worth visiting but we are writing you today about our favorite ones!

  1. Varaždin City Museum – The Cultural, Historical, Archaeological, Ethnographic, and Entomological Departments, as well as the Gallery of Old and Contemporary Masters, are parts of Varaždin City Museum.
Photo source: www.visit-croatia.co.uk

2. Museum of Broken Relationships, Zagreb – The exhibits at the museum are exactly what you would expect. It displays love letters and personal objects from former lovers and is dedicated to failed love relationships and affairs. It tells heartbreaking stories and displays items that represent love.

Photo source: www.timeout.com

3. Archeological Museum, Split – The Archaeological Museum, founded in 1820, is arguably Croatia’s best and most comprehensive history museum. Its vast collection includes 6,000 Salona stone epitaphs, approximately 30,000 history, and archaeology books, a massive number of coins from Antiquity and the Middle Ages, Roman glass and Greek Hellenistic ceramics, and classical sculptures and mosaics.

Photo source: triciaannemitchell.com

4. Diocletians Dream, Split – One of the contemporary museums powered by innovation and technology. This is a VR museum where modern technology meets ancient heritage and an experience that brings the history of Split to life. Through a 15-minute VR movie, you will learn a lot of interesting facts about one of the most fascinating Roman emperors – Diocletian – while wandering through the chambers of his palace. When in Split, you can book your visit here!

5. Nehaj Castle, Senj – If you are interested in the history of European castles and the lifestyle associated with them—tournaments, knights, chivalry, and so on—this powerful castle is as close as you can get in Croatia. Nehaj Castle is now a museum with exhibits of drawings, clothing, weapons, and models of various items related to the fortress’s use.

Photo source: www.lika-online.com

6. Zagreb 80’s Museum – The Zagreb 80’s is dedicated to presenting the past in a new way. Its space is a reconstruction of everyday life in the former Yugoslavia in a unique and interactive way that intersects past & future, way of life and heritage, memories and emotions.

Photo caption: www.zagreb.info

Save the list for your next trip to Croatia because Croatia is much more than just a beautiful coastline, delicious seafood, idyllic islands, and photogenic coastal towns.

For more content like this, make sure to follow us on our Instagram and Facebook!

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Things You Did Not Know About Diocletian’s Palace

If we start listing the most fascinating buildings in the world, Diocletian’s Palace should, for sure, be listed at the top. And why? It was built as the retirement home of Roman Emperor Diocletian more than 1 700 years ago and, today, the palace forms the strict center of the old part of Split where people still live! This is what fascinates every tourist who wanders through the narrow streets of the palace. We are here to tell you some interesting facts about Diocletian’s Palace!

The palace itself contains numerous attractions that used to be an integral part of everyday life. One of the most impressive is the Cathedral of St. Duje, which was actually built as Diocletian’s mausoleum. There is also an associated Bell Tower that was added in the 13th century and is considered to be the most original Dalmatian medieval building.

Here are some of the interesting facts about the palace that you might not know!

1. The palace was built as Diocletian’s retirement home

Diocletian was the first emperor in history to give up the throne and retire to his freshly built retirement home that we know today as Diocletian’s Palace.

2. More than 3 000 people live within the palace walls

Today, Diocletian’s Palace is the heart of Split and more than 3 000 people live within these historic walls. With numerous restaurants, bars, and shops, the area lives to the fullest as it did 1 700 years ago.

3. No tickets are required for the palace

As Diocletian’s Palace nowadays is an integral part of the city center, it is not necessary to buy a ticket for the palace itself!

However, it is necessary to buy a ticket for its cellars. But, believe us, it is worth the price because these cellars hide a lot of interesting facts. This is a great activity if you come in winter or autumn and if you are looking for an alternative to going to the beach.

4. The palace was used as a filming set for Game of Thrones

If you are wandering through the cellar halls and they look familiar, then you are, for sure, a Game of Thrones fan! The basement hall was portrayed as the lair of the very famous TV dragons.

5. UNESCO World Heritage Site

Diocletian’s Palace has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979. Today, the Palace is well preserved with all of its most important historical buildings and Split is one of the favorite destinations of many tourists.

Diocletian’s Palace is likely to be the first thing you see if Split if you decide to spend your next vacation in this magnificent city. Split is much more than simply the Palace, and there are many other reasons to visit, but the Palace is at the heart of the city center and is the most known attraction (for a reason).

If you enjoyed reading about Diocletian’s Palace, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more! And if you would like to see how Diocletian’s Palace looked more than 1 700 years ago, book your VR visit.

What To Do In Split? Your Weekend Plan

Let us be honest, “what to do in…” is one of the most searched sentences in every new city we visit. Which makes total sense. When visiting a new place for the first time, we always want to get the most out of it, especially with time constraints. This is where we face the first difficulty: the sea of information. Today, we are writing you about the must-see places and sights you can fit into one weekend in Split because this city has a lot to offer.

  1. Diocletian’s Palace

Where to start? From the tour of Diocletian’s Palace, of course. For all you history lovers, this will be a real treat. Besides its exceptional natural beauty, Split is truly a city of magnificent history and rich traditions. So much is hidden behind the palace walls. It was originally built as a retirement home for one of the most influential Roman emperors, Diocletian,  and is more than 1700 years old. What is interesting about the palace is that around the Middle Ages it was transformed into a little town so today, within the Palace walls, you can find your new favorite coffee spot, restaurant, bar, or ice cream shop. Besides two museums you can visit (Split City Museum and the Ethnographic Museum Split) you can also see Diocletian’s Mausoleum and Palace Cellars, the Bell Tower, the Temple of Jupiter, and much more. The palace itself is a party of several hours. You will surely enjoy exploring all the passageways and secret little places you will come across.

Photo source: www.dalmatiauntouched.com

2. Diocletians Dream

The next stop is the specialty museum – Diocletians Dream. Diocletian’s Dream is a virtual reality museum that takes you back to 305 AD and shows you the palace in its former glory.

VR Representation of the Palace

This is a 15-minute experience that tells you a part of Diocletian’s story in a new and original way by combining modern technology and ancient heritage in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a perfect balance between historical sights and modern VR technology. Diocletians Dream opens a completely new perspective on the approach and presentation of cultural and historical heritage. Make sure to book your visit and do not miss out!

3. Riva

We must not forget “The Riva”. It does not count that you have been in Split unless you stroll along the Riva harbor. The Fabolous seafront promenade lined with palm trees, restaurants, and cafes all along makes you want to spend the whole day just relaxing and admiring the Adriatic sea from this point of view.

Photo source: www.booking.com

4. Sustipan

Walking towards the southwestern part of Split you will come across a small peninsula Sustipan. This one, you must not miss. The park is like an oasis of calm in a storm of crowded streets and beaches in the summer months. Oh, and the sunsets you will catch here – unbelievable.

Photo credit: lidija-photo.com

5. Ježinac and Kašjuni Beach

After all this walking and exploring, you deserve nothing less than a nice and relaxing swim. Not too far away from Sustipan, you will find two beautiful beaches Ježinac and Kašjuni. We cannot pick our favorite between these two, so we will let you pick yours.

Photo source: www.adriatic.hr

6. Marjan Park

Do you know what else you cannot miss? The Marjan Park. Amazing views and sounds of nature, great hiking trails, and climbing spots. From the locals, you will often hear that Marjan Park is Split’s version of NYC Central Park. In the city that is well known for its Diocletian’s Palace, this green oasis will most definitely surprise you as it is something so different due to its nature, peacefulness, and mystery. Ps. Make sure to wear some comfortable shoes.

Photo source: www.oh-split.com

Is Split worth visiting? Most certainly. Not only that it is rich in history and tradition, but it is also the second-largest city in Croatia and the one that offers you the gateway to some of the most sun-kissed islands in the area. If you have more than two days, make sure to visit at least some of them. You will not regret it.  

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From an Idea to the Realization: How Did the Story of Diocletians Dream Begin?

Diocletians Dream is Croatia’s first virtual reality experience, and it is one of the biggest attractions in Split. This is an attraction that combines modern technology and ancient heritage in a UNESCO World Heritage Site; it shows Diocletian Palace in the light and splendor of the former self.

Virtual reality is the language of the new generation and of those who are open to new, interesting, and educational experiences. Thanks to VR technology, traveling back in time has never been easier. Diocletians Dream allows you to step back in time to 305 AD and experience Diocletian’s Palace, a retirement home of the Roman Emperor, in a completely new way.

This VR specialty museum aims to tell part of the Diocletian story in a new and original way that opens a completely new perspective on the approach and presentation of cultural and historical heritage. Through a 15-minute animated film with a script, Severin (Diocletian’s slave) takes you on a tour of the royal chambers and presents you with many fascinating facts about Diocletian’s life and reign as one of the Roman Empire’s most powerful emperors.

Time and various historical influences have taken their toll and, naturally, the palace is not in its original condition today. Sometimes, it is difficult to imagine what Diocletian’s Palace was like when it was first built, let alone to visualize what it was built for – the retirement home of Emperor Diocletian. That is why Diocletians Dream is a great addition to the walking tours of Split and the palace as it brings the history of the palace to life and helps you to visualize the life of Diocletian.

This whole idea of a VR specialty museum came to life after Declan O’Rourke, one of the two owners of the Diocletians Dream, took a walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace. A walking tour of the palace is one of the most popular things to do in Split, however, when doing the tour with a bigger group of people, through crowded streets, and on a typical hot summer day in Split, you do not always get the most of it. In addition, observing the ruins of the palace and its walls requires a lot of imagination if you want to put the whole picture of the palace from 305 AD together.

Using modern technology to bring the palace to life seemed to be a fantastic opportunity to help people overcome the difficulty of visualization of the palace and to give them a place to escape the summer heat and crowded streets. The way the story is told, using audio and visual tools, is specifically designed to make people remember it even after they leave the museum.

Tomo Taraš, Declan’s long-term friend and a business partner, was interested in the idea of bringing something so innovative, educational, and exciting to his hometown from the start. And just like that, the realization process started and lasted for 18 months. Finally, in May 2020, Diocletians Dream opened its door to the public. Today, they count more than 15 000 happy and satisfied visitors who are, judging by their impressions and reviews, very thrilled by the experience.

The only thing that is left to say is that this is an experience you should not miss when visiting Split! Book your visit now and enjoy the VR tour of the Diocletian Palace.

Diocletian’s Dream is Croatia’s first virtual reality experience, and it is one of the biggest attractions in Split. This is an attraction that combines modern technology and ancient heritage in a UNESCO World Heritage Site; it shows Diocletian Palace in the light and splendor of the former self.

Virtual reality is the language of the new generation and of those who are open to new, interesting, and educational experiences. Thanks to VR technology, traveling back in time has never been easier. Diocletians Dream allows you to step back in time to 305 AD and experience Diocletian’s Palace, a retirement home of the Roman Emperor, in a completely new way.

This VR specialty museum aims to tell part of the Diocletian story in a new and original way that opens a completely new perspective on the approach and presentation of cultural and historical heritage. Through a 15-minute animated film with a script, Severin (Diocletian’s slave) takes you on a tour of the royal chambers and presents you with many fascinating facts about Diocletian’s life and reign as one of the Roman Empire’s most powerful emperors.

Time and various historical influences have taken their toll and, naturally, the palace is not in its original condition today. Sometimes, it is difficult to imagine what Diocletian’s Palace was like when it was first built, let alone to visualize what it was built for – the retirement home of Emperor Diocletian. That is why Diocletians Dream is a great addition to the walking tours of Split and the palace as it brings the history of the palace to life and helps you to visualize the life of Diocletian.

This whole idea of a VR specialty museum came to life after Declan O’Rourke, one of the two owners of the Diocletians Dream, took a walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace. A walking tour of the palace is one of the most popular things to do in Split, however, when doing the tour with a bigger group of people, through crowded streets, and on a typical hot summer day in Split, you do not always get the most of it. In addition, observing the ruins of the palace and its walls requires a lot of imagination if you want to put the whole picture of the palace from 305 AD together.

Using modern technology to bring the palace to life seemed to be a fantastic opportunity to help people overcome the difficulty of visualization of the palace and to give them a place to escape the summer heat and crowded streets. The way the story is told, using audio and visual tools, is specifically designed to make people remember it even after they leave the museum.

Tomo Taraš, Declan’s long-term friend and a business partner, was interested in the idea of bringing something so innovative, educational, and exciting to his hometown from the start. And just like that, the realization process started and lasted for 18 months. Finally, in May 2020, Diocletians Dream opened its door to the public. Today, they count more than 15 000 happy and satisfied visitors who are, judging by their impressions and reviews, very thrilled by the experience.

The only thing that is left to say is that this is an experience you should not miss when visiting Split! Book your visit now and enjoy the VR tour of the Diocletian Palace.

Who was Diocletian?

The Organizational Genius Who Saved Roman Empire

It is believed that Diocletian saved the Roman Empire from extinction; today, he remains a powerful and controversial figure in history, part tyrant and part organizational genius.

Diocletian was a powerful emperor who brought the Roman world out of turmoil. He gained respect where others failed miserably and was described as a great reformer with a harsh personality.

 

 

Diocletian was born in the Balkans in 244, and he grew up in a chaotic environment with little government or stability. He had begun life in obscurity – his father was said to be a freed slave – but driving energy, the force of personality, and a genius for administration propelled him through a career in the army.

Just before he was born, the Roman Severan dynasty had given the army undue power. As a result, almost anyone popular among the troops could proclaim himself emperor. When Alexander Severus, the last Severan emperor, was assassinated in 235, the legions raised and promptly murdered one man after another.

Rome experienced a prolonged period of anarchy in the third century AD, which nearly destroyed the Empire. There were at least 60 claimants to the throne over 50 years, and many emperors ruled for only a few months. Rome was still dealing with internal rebellions, barbarian incursions, and multiple claimants to the throne when Diocletian was proclaimed emperor. The Roman Empire had devolved into a shaky shell of what it had once been.

The rise to power of Diocletian was very typical for this time. He was a strong military commander who was popular among his troops, and his legions proclaimed him Emperor in Nicomedia (modern Turkey) in 284. Diocletian understood how dangerous it was to be proclaimed emperor as the vast majority of emperors were assassinated shortly after their coronation. He knew that he needed to act quickly and build his power base.

Because of the authoritarian nature of the monarchy at the time, the Diocletian rule and the period
that followed it, are sometimes referred to as the dominant. However, this form of rule seemed to
be necessary for such a time of chaos. Diocletian had to make people believe that all the power truly resided in his hands and that it could not be taken away from him. This was the only way for him to ensure that he is not vulnerable and his ability to create such a powerful image of himself was extremely effective. As a result, he maintained power for 20 years!

Diocletian was the first emperor who broke many taboos and who took a different approach to presiding. He wore a diadem, a royal symbol that few emperors dared to wear. In his presence, his subjects were required to kneel. Access to him was extremely limited and the ordinary citizens were banned from wearing purple, as it became the preserve of royalty. As an emperor, Diocletian faced many struggles to preserve the stability of the empire. He had to make military reforms and deal with a lot of structural problems that had brought the empire to its knees. In addition, one of the major issues that he was facing was hyperinflation and he is known as the only Emperor who had tried to find a working solution to this economic meltdown. When it comes to his legacy to the Roman Empire, Diocletian’s military reforms served their purpose and kept Rome stable, and Rome never had an internal conflict on the scale of the one from the 3rd century. Diocletian’s political acumen put his head and shoulders above any previous emperor. Most of his successors would replicate his hard-won stability by adopting his dictatorial
leadership style. It is safe to say that Diocletian resuscitated Rome, and due to his efforts, the empire carried on until the 5th century.

 

 

Diocletian is also known as the only Roman emperor that retired voluntarily. Diocletian’s Palace became a retirement home, and it is believed that Diocletian spent the rest of his life quietly in his palace, gardening.

The Organizational Genius Who Saved Roman Empire

It is believed that Diocletian saved the Roman Empire from extinction; today, he remains a powerful and controversial figure in history, part tyrant and part organizational genius.

Diocletian was a powerful emperor who brought the Roman world out of turmoil. He gained respect where others failed miserably and was described as a great reformer with a harsh personality.

 

 

Diocletian was born in the Balkans in 244, and he grew up in a chaotic environment with little government or stability. He had begun life in obscurity – his father was said to be a freed slave – but driving energy, the force of personality, and a genius for administration propelled him through a career in the army.

Just before he was born, the Roman Severan dynasty had given the army undue power. As a result, almost anyone popular among the troops could proclaim himself emperor. When Alexander Severus, the last Severan emperor, was assassinated in 235, the legions raised and promptly murdered one man after another.

Rome experienced a prolonged period of anarchy in the third century AD, which nearly destroyed the Empire. There were at least 60 claimants to the throne over 50 years, and many emperors ruled for only a few months. Rome was still dealing with internal rebellions, barbarian incursions, and multiple claimants to the throne when Diocletian was proclaimed emperor. The Roman Empire had devolved into a shaky shell of what it had once been.

The rise to power of Diocletian was very typical for this time. He was a strong military commander who was popular among his troops, and his legions proclaimed him Emperor in Nicomedia (modern Turkey) in 284. Diocletian understood how dangerous it was to be proclaimed emperor as the vast majority of emperors were assassinated shortly after their coronation. He knew that he needed to act quickly and build his power base.

Because of the authoritarian nature of the monarchy at the time, the Diocletian rule and the period
that followed it, are sometimes referred to as the dominant. However, this form of rule seemed to
be necessary for such a time of chaos. Diocletian had to make people believe that all the power truly resided in his hands and that it could not be taken away from him. This was the only way for him to ensure that he is not vulnerable and his ability to create such a powerful image of himself was extremely effective. As a result, he maintained power for 20 years!

Diocletian was the first emperor who broke many taboos and who took a different approach to presiding. He wore a diadem, a royal symbol that few emperors dared to wear. In his presence, his subjects were required to kneel. Access to him was extremely limited and the ordinary citizens were banned from wearing purple, as it became the preserve of royalty. As an emperor, Diocletian faced many struggles to preserve the stability of the empire. He had to make military reforms and deal with a lot of structural problems that had brought the empire to its knees. In addition, one of the major issues that he was facing was hyperinflation and he is known as the only Emperor who had tried to find a working solution to this economic meltdown. When it comes to his legacy to the Roman Empire, Diocletian’s military reforms served their purpose and kept Rome stable, and Rome never had an internal conflict on the scale of the one from the 3rd century. Diocletian’s political acumen put his head and shoulders above any previous emperor. Most of his successors would replicate his hard-won stability by adopting his dictatorial
leadership style. It is safe to say that Diocletian resuscitated Rome, and due to his efforts, the empire carried on until the 5th century.

 

 

Diocletian is also known as the only Roman emperor that retired voluntarily. Diocletian’s Palace became a retirement home, and it is believed that Diocletian spent the rest of his life quietly in his palace, gardening.