SPU:
When the Palace Walls Tremble - Ultra Europe Takes Over Ancient Split

The bass drops, and for a moment I swear even Jupiter's Temple columns vibrate. As the sun sets behind the stage erected in Diocletian's Palace courtyard, 20,000 revelers from 75 countries raise their hands in unison. This is Ultra Europe's signature moment - when ancient stones meet cutting-edge electronica.

Local grandmother Ivanka Šimić, who's lived in the palace for 68 years, watches the spectacle from her balcony. "At first I hated the noise," she shouts over Martin Garrix's set. "But now? Look at my grandson down there!" She points to a shirtless teen crowd-surfing while wearing a Roman centurion helmet. "He's studying to be an archaeologist because of these parties."

The 2024 edition features:

• A new "Gladiator Stage" in the palace cellars where techno bounces off Roman brickwork
• "Poseidon's Realm" - a floating DJ platform in the harbor visible from the Riva promenade
• Daily 4am "Sunrise Sessions" at Marjan Hill's abandoned chapel

Insider move: The best sound isn't near the stage - it's by the Silver Gate, where the palace walls create perfect acoustics.

Party Like an Emperor (But Sleep Like One Too)
Recover from the beats in luxury at the new Heritage Hotel. PrestigeFly books business class on United's seasonal Newark-Split flights plus VIP festival passes with backstage access. Our "Ultra Recovery" package includes next-day yacht charters to quiet Pakleni Islands.