The historic City of Split is the second largest in Croatia and the largest city of the region of Dalmatia. It lies on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea, centred on the Roman Palace of the Emperor Diocletian. Although it reached its peak during the Roman Era, it was founded as the Greek colony of Aspalathos in the 4th century BC, about 2,400 years ago. Its scenic heart is the walled Old Town, built around the Palace of the Emperor Diocletian (305 CE). Conquered by Greek, Romans, Byzantines, Venice, Napoleon, the Hapsburgs of Austria Hungary, Nazi Germany and many others, the history of Split rich features strongly in its diverse architecture, ruins and buildings. Just outside the walls of the Palace is a massive bronze statue of Gregory of Nin; he was a medieval Croatian bishop of Nin who strongly opposed the Pope and official circles of the Church and introduced the national Croatian language in the religious services of the country. He is a national hero. Rubbing the statue's toe is said to bring good luck. It is very well worn!