Puppetry is a form of theater performance in which puppeteers manipulate characters to tell a story and convey emotions. A fascinating art form with a long history and variety of styles, puppetry has always been used for entertainment, education and cultural expression in many different cultures around the world. The tradition of puppetry in Europe contributed to the development of the art of puppetry expression, techniques and styles that were later transferred and integrated into Croatian puppetry. Using the methods of description and comparison, the paper presents the history of the puppet theater in Split, which dates back to the Middle Ages, when puppeteers and traveling troupes performed shows in the squares and streets of the city. Although the theater in Split faced challenges and changes over time, its importance as a cultural institution remained, and it is still a highly valued form of entertainment for local residents and visitors, thus contributing to the city's lively art scene. Finally, puppetry criticism and the future of puppetry are closely related, creating a fusion of analysis, reflection and development of the art form. Through the continued collaboration of artists, audiences and critics, puppetry can continue to evolve, inspiring and challenging the world of art and culture.