The design of Bowood House in Wiltshire is based on the 4th century Palace of Diocletian in modern Split, Croatia. Robert Adam, the architect of Bowood, had surveyed and publicised the Roman Emperor's 'retirement' palace, which during the centuries before his survey had effectively become lost. Adam recorded the survey in his book "Ruins of the palace of the Emperor Diocletian at Spalatro in Dalmatia", published in 1764. Today, inside the public entrance, one of Adam's elevations is on display to illustrate how closely he followed the original.
Of course, the modern Bowood House is considerably smaller than Diocletian's huge complex with its accommodation for a small garrison, its numerous servants and private access to the sea. Nevertheless, Bowood still give one a feeling for the elegance of Classical Architecture, albeit mediated through 18th century eyes.
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