Gay Split History Tour Queer Roman Emperors and LGBTQ+ Struggle

Split , Croatia

Gay Split History Tour Queer Roman Emperors and LGBTQ+ Struggle

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About this experience

Your guide is a licensed Split tour expert, as well as a mental health professional and counselor, working to increase visibility of the LGBT community and bring these stories to life through tourism.

Meet the Roman queer emperors and discover the stories of their lovers, meet Elagabal, history’s first known trans figure. Learn why same-sex relationships were legal for free men and slaves but forbidden for equal citizens, risking status and life.
Explore Diocletian’s Palace secrets: why the headless sphinx guards Jupiter’s temple, survive the human trap at the Golden Gate.
Travel to the Middle Ages, when queer lives went into hiding. Discover the curse of the last Croatian king that legend says cost the state a thousand years of independence.

Fast forward to modern Split: see how the Homeland War shaped Croatia, and how Pride marches, activism, and legal reforms brought civil partnerships, adoption rights, and visibility to the LGBTQIA+ community.

Available options

Gay Split History Tour Queer Roman Emperors and LGBTQ+ Struggle

What's included

Photo on the Iron Throne, kings Throne of Swords

Additional discounts at selected shops, museums, and recommended restaurants

LGBTQIA+ mental health expert, counselor ally, sharing insights into social issues in Split.

Split History Walking Tour

Game of Thrones Filming Scenes and Videos for GoT fans

Licensed tour guide

Split City Palace Museum Entry

Detailed itinerary

Peristyle Square, we’re standing in the ceremonial heart of Diocletian’s Palace, where subjects once knelt before the emperor who believed to be a god on Earth.

Golden Gate, the main entrance to the emperor’s palace, enemies who tried to break in would find themselves trapped between double gates, a deadly Roman defense mechanism.

Gregory of Nin, he gave his life defending the Croatian language, is today its powerful symbol and legend says his statue brings good luck to anyone who rubs its big toe.

Down in the dark basements of the emperor’s apartment, the dragons live and devour bad master, but in reality, much worse, this was also the city’s largest medieval toilet… absolutely disgusting.

The Vestibule is where the emperor was worshipped like a god on Earth, much like in the Pantheon, but today, we can pause here to listen to the a cappella voices of modern Split.

Pjaca Square is where people still gather today, a lively meeting place whose architecture tells the turbulent story of Spli. From the Romans and Venetians, through French, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav rule, all the way to modern Croatia.

Đardin Park was once a well-known meeting place for prostitutes in recent history, and today it has transformed into the central gathering point for Split’s LGBTQIA+ Pride, symbolizing the city’s social change.

Stop 8

Along the Riva, all of Split comes for their coffee and sunshine, and here the Pride parade marches in full swing, with music and demonstrations flowing together in a lively, harmonious rhythm.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Gregory of Nin Statue at the Golden Gate. The guide will wait with the black umbrella.

About Split

Split is a stunning coastal city in Croatia, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking Adriatic Sea views. The city is home to the impressive Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and offers a blend of ancient Roman architecture and modern Mediterranean charm.

Top Attractions

Diocletian's Palace

A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive Roman palaces in the world. Built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century, it's a must-visit for history buffs.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Free to enter, some areas require a ticket (around 50 HRK)

Riva Promenade

A lively waterfront promenade that stretches along the Adriatic Sea. It's a great place to enjoy the sea breeze, people-watch, and sample local ice cream.

Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Marjan Hill

A forested park offering stunning views of Split and the surrounding islands. It's perfect for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Nature/Scenic 2-4 hours Free

Bacvice Beach

A popular sandy beach known for its shallow waters and vibrant atmosphere. It's a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy local seafood.

Beach Half-day Free, sunbeds and umbrellas for rent

Split City Museum

Housed in the historic Papalić Palace, this museum offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of Split through various exhibits and artifacts.

Museum 1-2 hours Free, donations welcome

Must-Try Local Dishes

Black Risotto (Crni Rižot)

A traditional Dalmatian dish made with cuttlefish, giving it a distinctive black color.

Main course Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.

Peka

A slow-cooked dish made with meat (lamb, veal, or octopus) and vegetables, cooked under a bell-like lid with hot coals.

Main course Can be made with meat or seafood, not suitable for vegetarians.

Brodet

A traditional fish stew made with various types of fish, potatoes, and tomatoes.

Main course Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.

Rozata

A traditional Dalmatian dessert similar to crème caramel, flavored with rose liqueur.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, not suitable for vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking on Marjan Hill Sailing to nearby islands Scuba diving in the Adriatic Sea Sunbathing at Bacvice Beach Enjoying a leisurely stroll along Riva Promenade Relaxing at a local spa Exploring Diocletian's Palace Visiting local museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The peak season offers the best weather for beach activities and outdoor exploration. However, it is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Croatian
Widely spoken: English, Italian, German
English: Moderately spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Croatian Kuna (HRK)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Split is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Split Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Split Railway Station

By bus

Split Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and covers most parts of the city. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Camme, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Varoš Bačvice Meje

Day trips

Hvar Island

60 km from Split • Full day

A picturesque island known for its stunning beaches, lavender fields, and historic sites. Hvar is a popular destination for sailing, swimming, and exploring.

Brač Island

30 km from Split • Full day

A beautiful island known for its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic hiking trails. Brač is a great destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Krka National Park

80 km from Split • Full day

A stunning national park known for its waterfalls, lakes, and lush greenery. Krka is a great destination for hiking, swimming, and nature lovers.

Festivals

Split Summer Festival • July to September Split Music Festival • July to August Split International Film Festival • June to July

Pro tips

Visit Diocletian's Palace early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Try local seafood dishes, especially Black Risotto and Peka, for an authentic taste of Dalmatian cuisine.
Explore the city on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and enjoy the scenic views.
Take a day trip to nearby islands like Hvar or Brač for stunning beaches and outdoor activities.
Enjoy the sunset from Marjan Hill for a breathtaking view of the city and the Adriatic Sea.