by Ivana, age 9 from Split, Croatia, asks Santa about his belt, the Adriatic Sea, and the ancient Diocletian’s Palace.
Dear Santa, my name is Ivana, and I am nine years old. I live in Split, Croatia, where my baka says our whole old town was built right inside the walls of an ancient Roman palace.
Dear Ivana, a town built inside a Roman palace deserves a very respectful, very careful flyover, your baka picked a truly remarkable hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Does Santa have a belt? My little brother says your coat would fall right open without one.
I certainly do, Ivana, a sturdy black belt keeps everything nicely in place, especially after a generous helping of cookies. Tell your little brother the belt does important work all night long.
My baka says Split sits right on the Adriatic Sea. Is that true?
It is true, Ivana, the Adriatic Sea stretches along your city’s beautiful coastline. I always enjoy that sparkling, blue view flying in to visit you.
My baka says our whole old town was actually built inside the walls of an ancient Roman emperor’s palace, called Diocletian’s Palace. Is that true?
It is true, Ivana, Diocletian’s Palace still forms the very heart of your old town, with homes, shops, and streets tucked right inside its ancient walls. That kind of living history, old stones still full of everyday life, is really something remarkable to witness.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Ivana Horvat
Split, Croatia
P.S. Will you tell my brother the belt situation is under control?
Firmly under control, Ivana, that belt has never once let me down.
