The Water Museum, opened in 2021, is housed in the historic Neoclassical waterworks building. Constructed in 1879 as part of the restoration of Diocletian’s aqueduct, it was designed by Jakov Antonelli. Built from white Brač stone, the building features stone detailing by the renowned Milanese firm Dall’Ara, which also carved Split’s Monumental Fountain. A medallion on the upper central façade bears the only known depiction of Emperor Diocletian in Split.
With the construction of the water pumping station in Kopilica in 1931, the old waterworks building ceased to serve its original purpose and, until recently, operated as a place where residents paid their water bills. The idea of converting the building into an exhibition space had long been considered, with special recognition due to Duško Kečkemet, PhD, for his dedication to transforming it for cultural use.